Mar 28, 2024  
Catalogue 2021-2022 
    
Catalogue 2021-2022 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Computer Science: II. Intermediate

  
  • CMPU 250 - Modeling, Simulation and Analysis


    1 unit(s)
    Principles of computation in the sciences, driven by current applications in biology, physics, chemistry, natural and social sciences, and computer science. Topics include: Discrete and continuous stochastic models, random number generation, elementary statistics, numerical analysis and algorithms, discrete event simulation, and point and interval parameter estimation. Students pursue projects that involve modeling phenomena in two to three different fields and simulate the model in order to understand mechanisms and/or explore new hypotheses or conditions. The Department.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 102 , MATH 126  and MATH 127 .

    Recommended: CMPU 241  and/or MATH 221  but not required.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 290 - Community-Engaged Learning

    Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
    0.5 to 1 unit(s)
    Course Format: OTH
  
  • CMPU 295 - Special Topics

    Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
    0.5 to 1 unit(s)
    Intermediate-level treatment of specialized topics in computer science.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 298 - Independent Work

    Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
    0.5 to 1 unit(s)
    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Course Format: OTH

Computer Science: III. Advanced

Two units of 200-level computer science are prerequisite for entry into 300-level courses; see each course for specific courses required or exceptions.

  
  • CMPU 300 - Senior Research and Thesis

    Semester Offered: Fall
    0.5 unit(s)
    Investigation and critical analysis of a topic in experimental or theoretical computer science. Experimental research may include building or experimentation with a non-trivial hardware or software system. A student electing this course must first gain, by submission of a written research proposal, the support of at least one member of the computer science faculty with whom to work out details of a research strategy. The formal research proposal, a written thesis, and oral presentation of results are required for the course. A second faculty member participates in both the planning of the research and final evaluation.

    Prerequisite(s): Minimum 3.5 GPA in 200- and 300-level Computer Science coursework at the end of the junior year, and permission of the department.

    Yearlong course 300-CMPU 301 .

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • CMPU 301 - Senior Research and Thesis

    Semester Offered: Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Continuation of CMPU 300 .

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 300 .

    Yearlong course CMPU 300 -301.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • CMPU 310 - Topics in Virtualization

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    This course covers basic and advanced concepts related to Virtual Machines, surveying classic and modern research on virtualization.  The course is organized as a mixture of paper reading and Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) implementation.  Jason Waterman.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 224  and 334 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • CMPU 311 - Database Systems

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    A database is a collection of data that is managed by a database management system, or DBMS. DBMSs emerged in the 1960s with the development of mainframe computers. DBMSs could be considered one of the first killer apps! Many database models have been proposed and implemented since then, but in 1970 a model was introduced that endures today: the relational model. One of the strengths of the relational model was that it provided a structured query language (SQL) for creating, modifying, and querying databases. This Intensive focuses on relational database design, normal forms and normalization techniques, entity-relationship diagrams, and querying databases using SQL. Students work individually or in pairs on database projects throughout the semester.  Marc Smith.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 145 CMPU 203 .

    One 2-hour period.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • CMPU 312 - Applications of Artificial Intelligence

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a history of algorithmic innovations stretching back to the mid-1950s. Over the ensuing decades, techniques in AI have enabled advances in a wide variety of areas, including voice recognition, automated reasoning, vision processing, planning and scheduling, game-playing programs, and many more. This intensive focuses on using Temporal Networks to reason about time. Students work in small collaborative groups on programming projects throughout the semester.  Luke Hunsberger.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 203  and CMPU 241 .

    One 2-hour period.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • CMPU 314 - Projects in Digital Media Production: Animation, Games and Generative Art

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    An interdisciplinary course investigating the challenge of combining technological and aesthetic goals in developing digital media artifacts. We consider two models of practice: (1) Programmer(s) and artist(s) collaborating with each other. (2) A single programmer-artist working alone. Projects are proposed by students and approved by the instructor. Work may be carried out individually, in pairs or in small groups, as appropriate to the project. Students’ work is critiqued in class in terms of technical proficiency and aesthetic value. Tom Ellman.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    One 2-hour period.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • CMPU 315 - Computer Security


    0.5 unit(s)
    The goal of this intensive is to expose students to a broad range of security challenges that can occur in software. We explore various topics in the field of computer security including cryptography, network and web security, and software verification. For each topic, students read papers and complete a collaborative programming project. The Department.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 145 , CMPU 224 , and permission of the instructor.

    One 2-hour period.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • CMPU 324 - Computer Architecture


    1 unit(s)
    An exploration of current research areas in computer organization including an examination of data-flow, microcode, cache memory, distributed, parallel, and other nonstandard architectures, and related topics.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 224 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 331 - Compilers

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    This course covers the implementation of compilers – programs that transform source programs written in a higher-level language into executable formats. Topics include syntax, error-handling, and code generation. Throughout the course, increasingly sophisticated compilers are implemented to demonstrate how different language features are handled, and the design challenges that each language feature introduces. Additional topics may include compiler optimizations and other advanced topics. Anna Gommerstadt.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 224  and CMPU 240 . In addition, CMPU 235  or CMPU 245  is recommended, but not required.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 334 - Operating Systems

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Deals with the theory and implementation of the software that governs the management of system resources. Topics that are covered include file organization, process scheduling, system services, memory management, security methods, resource contention, and design principles. Operating systems for parallel and distributed processing, real-time processing, virtual machines, and networking are also considered. The Department.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 203  and CMPU 224 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 353 - Bioinformatics


    1 unit(s)


    (Same as BIOL 353 ) DNA is the blueprint of life. Although it’s composed of only four nucleotide “letters” (A, C. T, G), the order and arrangement of these letters in a genome gives rise to the diversity of life on earth. Thousands of genomes have been partially sequenced, representing billions of nucleotides. How can we reach this vast expanse of sequence data to find patterns that provide answers to ecological, evolutionary, agricultural, and biomedical questions? Bioinformatics applies high-performance computing to discover patterns in large sequence datasets. In this class students from biology and computer science work together to formulate interesting biological questions and to design algorithms and computational experiments to answer them. Jodi Schwarz, Marc Smith.

    Prerequisite(s): For students registering under the BIOL prefix, ​​the prerequisites are o​ne unit of any 200-level biology and one unit of Genetics (BIOL 238 , BIOL 244 , or BIOL 248 )​; BIOL students do not need to have any Computer Science background​.

    ​For students registering under the CMPU prefix, the prerequisite is CMPU 203  or permission of the instructor; CMPU students do not need to have any Biology background.

    To register for this course students must satisfy either the Biology or Computer Science prerequisites, but not both.

    Two 2-hour periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS

  
  • CMPU 365 - Artificial Intelligence


    1 unit(s)
    An introduction to Artificial Intelligence as a discipline of Computer Science, covering the traditional foundations of the field and a selection of recent advances. Traditional topics include: search, two-player adversarial games, constraint satisfaction, knowledge representation and reasoning, and planning. Additional topics will vary from year to year and will be selected from the following: reasoning about time, probabilistic reasoning, neural networks, philosophical foundations, multiagent systems, robotics, and recent advances in planning. Significant programming assignments and a course project complement the material presented in class. Jonathan Gordon.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 145 , CMPU 203 , and CMPU 245 , or permission of the instructor.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 366 - Computational Linguistics

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Addresses the fundamental question at the intersection of human languages and computer science: how can computers acquire, comprehend and produce natural languages such as English? Introduces computational methods for modeling human language, including morphology, syntax, semantics and discourse; corpus-based and statistical methods for language analysis; and natural language applications such as information extraction and retrieval, summarization, and machine translation. Students gain experience with sophisticated systems for linguistic analysis and machine learning. Jonathan Gordon.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 240  recommended, but not required.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 375 - Computer Networks


    1 unit(s)
    Computer networks, in the form of the Internet, have revolutionized society in the last 3 decades. This course provides an introduction to the design and operation of the Internet and computer networks in general. Topics include layered communication protocols, routing, transport, naming, security and mobility. Knowledge is consolidated through projects involving the creation of network applications. Rui Meireles.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 203  and CMPU 224 , or permission of the instructor.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 377 - Parallel Programming


    1 unit(s)
    An introduction to parallel computing, with coverage of parallel architectures, programming models, and techniques. Topics include SIMD and MIMD models, shared-memory and message-passing styles of computation, synchronization, deadlock, and parallel language design. Students are exposed to common techniques for solving problems in sorting, searching, numerical methods, and graph theory, and gain practical experience through programming assignments run on a parallel processing system. Marc Smith.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 203  and CMPU 224 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 378 - Graphics

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    A survey of computational and mathematical techniques for modeling and rendering realistic images of three-dimensional scenes. Topics include: event-driven user interfaces; geometric transformations and projections; scene graphs; implicit and parametric surfaces; models of color and light; surface shading and texturing; local and global rendering algorithms; and an introduction to computer animation. The Department.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 203  and MATH 221 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 379 - Computer Animation: Art, Science and Criticism


    1 unit(s)
    (Same as ART 379 , FILM 379 , and MEDS 379 ) An interdisciplinary course in Computer Animation aimed at students with previous experience in Computer Science, Studio Art, or Media Studies. The course introduces students to mathematical and computational principles and techniques for describing the shape, motion and shading of three-dimensional figures in Computer Animation. It introduces students to artistic principles and techniques used in drawing, painting and sculpture, as they are translated into the context of Computer Animation. It also encourages students to critically examine Computer Animation as a medium of communication. Finally, the course exposes students to issues that arise when people from different scholarly cultures attempt to collaborate on a project of mutual interest. The course is structured as a series of animation projects interleaved with screenings and classroom discussions. Tom Ellman, Harry Roseman.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Two 2-hour periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • CMPU 395 - Database Management Systems and Applications

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)


    Managing large data collections is a key component of many applications. This course examines how data can be modeled, stored, accessed, and manipulated using relational database management systems (DBMSs) and how DBMSs support efficient data access and protect the integrity of the data stored.

    Topics covered include database design, query languages (relational algebra, SQL), indexing, query processing, and transaction management techniques. Techniques for interfacing host languages with a DBMS are discussed and students design and implement a web-based database application project. Phyllis Frankl.

    Prerequisite(s): CMPU 241 

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS

  
  • CMPU 399 - Senior Independent Work

    Semester Offered: Fall or Spring
    0.5 to 1 unit(s)
    Course Format: OTH

Cognitive Science: I. Introductory

  
  • COGS 100 - Introduction to Cognitive Science

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Cognitive science is a multidisciplinary exploration of the nature of mind and intelligence in whatever forms they may take, from animal (including especially humans) to machine. This course explores the modern history of our efforts to understand the nature of mind, asking such questions as how a purely physical entity could have a mind, whether a computer or robot could have genuine mental states, and what it really means to be intelligent or to have a mind. In the process of seeking answers to these questions, the course explores such phenomena as perception, memory, prediction, decision-making, action, language, and consciousness by integrating methods and concepts from a number of disciplines, including philosophy, psychology, computer science, neuroscience, biology, linguistics, and anthropology. Material from economics, education, mathematics, engineering, and the arts is increasingly integrated into the field as well. No background in any of these disciplines is assumed, and this course is intended to serve as an introduction, for both majors and non-majors, to the unique multidisciplinary approach to studying problems of mind that Cognitive Science represents. The Department.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 110 - The Science and Fiction of Mind

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    Our understanding of what minds are and of how they work has exploded dramatically in the last half century. As in other areas of science, the more we know the harder it becomes to convey the richness and complexity of that knowledge to non-specialists. This First-Year Course explores two different styles of writing for explaining new findings about the nature of mind to a general audience. The most direct of these styles is journalistic and explanatory and is well represented by the work of people like Steven Pinker, Bruce Bower, Stephen J. Gould, and Ray Kurzweil. The second style is fictional. At its best, science fiction not only entertains, it also stretches the reader’s mind to a view of implications and possibilities beyond what is currently known. Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke, Greg Bear, and Richard Powers all provide excellent models of this kind of writing. In this course students practice both ways of writing about technical and scientific discoveries. By working simultaneously in both styles it should become clear that when done well even a strictly explanatory piece of science writing tells a story. By the same token even a purely fictional narrative can explain and elucidate how the real world works. The focus of our work is material from the sciences of mind, but topics from other scientific areas may also be explored. This course does not serve as a prerequisite for upper-level courses in Cognitive Science. Ken Livingston.

    Open only to first-year students; satisfies the college requirement for a First-Year Writing Seminar.

    Two 2-hour periods.

    Course Format: CLS

Cognitive Science: II. Intermediate

  
  • COGS 211 - Perception and Action

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    This course is about the ongoing, dynamic, causal loops of action and perception that situate agents in the world and form the foundation for their intelligence. Topics include how physical energies become perceptual experiences, how systems evolve, develop, and learn the ability to perform complex actions, and how it is that actions are brought under the control of perceptions. Material is drawn from the neurosciences, robotics, human and non-human animal behavior research, and philosophy. Classes include regular laboratory work including human experimental work and robotics. Ken Livingston.

    Prerequisite(s): COGS 100 .

    Two 75-minute periods, plus one 4-hour laboratory.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 213 - Language

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    This course considers the rich and complex phenomenon of human language from a multidisciplinary perspective. The emphasis is on the cognitive representations and processes that enable individual language users to acquire, perceive, comprehend, produce, read, and write language. Consideration is given to the relation of language to thought and consciousness; to neural substrates of language and the effects of brain damage on language ability; to computational models of language; and to language development. Throughout, language is examined at different levels of analysis, including sound, structure, and meaning.  Jan Andrews.

    Prerequisite(s): COGS 100 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 215 - Knowledge and Cognition

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    This course asks how knowledge and cognition contribute to the functioning of biological and synthetic cognitive agents. Along the way it inquires into the origins and nature of knowledge, memory, concepts, goals, and problem-solving strategies. Relevant philosophical issues are examined along with research on the brain, experimental evidence from cognitive psychology, computer models, and evolutionary explanations of mind and behavior. A major goal of the course is to explore how cognitive scientists are coming to understand knowledge and cognition within an embodied agent embedded in a real world.  Gwen Broude.

    Prerequisite(s): COGS 100 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 219 - Research Methods in Cognitive Science

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)


    In this course, students learn to apply the principal methodologies of cognitive science to a specific problem in the field. The methods are drawn from human neurophysiology, experimental cognitive psychology, computer modeling, linguistic and logical analysis, and other appropriate investigative tools, depending on the specific issue chosen for study. A major goal of the course is to give students hands-on experience with the use and coordination of research techniques and strategies characteristic of contemporary cognitive science, including those related to current concerns about the reproducibility and transparency of scientific research. The course also plays a critical role in preparing students for the senior thesis. It is therefore strongly encouraged that this course be completed by the junior year. The Department.

    Prerequisite(s): Either COGS 211 , COGS 213 , or COGS 215  and either PSYC 200 , MATH 240 , or ECON 209  

    Regular laboratory work.

    Enrollment limited.

    Two 75-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.

    Course Format: CLS

  
  • COGS 221 - Qualitative Methods: Theory and Practice

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    This course focuses on methods for studying the subjective experience, thinking, and behavior of organisms, including in their real world contexts. Students are introduced to methods such as: structured and open-ended interview, journaling, experiential sampling, non-intrusive and participant observation, case studies, and longitudinal data gathering. Students learn how these methods are used in research and employ some of them. We also explore a set of basic philosophical issues regarding ways of knowing, whether it is ever possible to attain objective knowledge, the reliability of subjective data, the role of context in organism functioning, and the related problem of ecological validity. We consider the advantages and limitations of the methods that we study. The focus is on qualitative research methods. Gwen Broude.

    Prerequisite(s): One of the following: COGS 211 , 213 , 215 .

    Two 2-hour periods; additional lab time required.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 290 - Community-Engaged Learning

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 to 1 unit(s)
    Course Format: INT
  
  • COGS 298 - Independent Work

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 to 1 unit(s)
    Individual or group independent work with prior approval of the advisor and of the instructor who supervises the work. The Department.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Individual conferences with the instructor.

    Course Format: INT

Cognitive Science: III. Advanced

  
  • COGS 300 - Senior Thesis

    Semester Offered: Fall
    0.5 unit(s)
    A thesis written in two semesters for 1 unit.

    Yearlong course 300-COGS 301 .

    Course Format: INT
  
  • COGS 301 - Senior Thesis

    Semester Offered: Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    A thesis written in two semesters for 1 unit.

    Yearlong course COGS 300 -301.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • COGS 302 - Senior Thesis

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    A thesis written in one semester for one unit.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • COGS 304 - Senior Thesis

    Semester Offered: Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    A thesis written in two semesters for 1 unit. Yearlong course 304-COGS 305  taken in spring of junior year and spring of senior year. Only for students enrolled in the dual-degree program with Columbia University. Jan Andrews, Gwen Broude, Joshua de Leeuw, Kenneth Livingston.

    Yearlong course 304-COGS 305 .

    Course Format: INT
  
  • COGS 305 - Senior Thesis

    Semester Offered: Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    A thesis written in two semesters for 1 unit. Yearlong course COGS 304 -305 taken in the spring of junior year and spring of senior year. Only for students enrolled in the dual-degree program with Columbia University. Jan Andrews.

    Yearlong course COGS 304 -305.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • COGS 311 - Seminar in Cognitive Science

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)


    Topic for 2021/22b: Mind reading. A cognitive science book club. The goal of this course is to explore topics related to mind and agency by intensive reading of books, one per week. The idea is to try to reach beyond what we can normally manage in the core cognitive science curriculum. Classes are book-driven and discussion-intense. No formal (or informal) lectures by the instructor. The book club always covers a wide range of topics. There is no overarching theme. This year, topics likely include: animal behavior; phenomenology; the effects of technology on mind; consciousness; the role of purpose/desire in agency; the uses and abuses of statistics; reading stories with surprises…and others. Gwen Broude.

    One 2-hour period.

    Topic for 2021/22b: The morality and morals of artificial intelligence. There is an interesting and increasingly complicated conversation happening at the intersection of cognitive science and artificial intelligence, a conversation built upon a very contentious set of questions. What are our moral obligations as scientists when we create intelligent systems capable of autonomous decision making and even independent action? How responsible are we for the consequences of the decisions and actions of these artificial systems if they truly are autonomous? Should we consider such systems to be moral agents in their own right? Will the morality of these agents be determined by those who build them or will the morality of these agents be emergent from the process of their creation in ways that we cannot determine before the fact? In a world of competing moral systems, whose moral system should provide the framework for answering all of our other questions? In order to immerse ourselves in this conversation, we dive into the literature on the current state of research in artificial intelligence while we explore in parallel the cognitive science of morality and moral systems.  Kenneth Livingston.

    Prerequisite(s): At least one 200-level course in Cognitive Science and permission of the instructor.

    One 3-hour period.

    Course Format: CLS

  
  • COGS 312 - Mind Reading: The Cognitive Science Book Club

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    The goal of this course is to explore interests and issues from the field of Cognitive Science that go beyond the Cognitive Science curriculum. These include methodological and theoretical issues as well as empirical work, narrative, and more. The course is book-driven and discussion-intense. Think of it as a Cognitive Science book club. We read books, lots of them, and talk about them. Past topics have included: free will, consciousness, embodiment, first person subjective experience, neuroscientific methods, the anthropological stance, artificial intelligence, origins of morality, story, and theory of mind. Books and topics change each year. Gwen Broude.

    Prerequisite(s): Any 200-level course in Cognitive Science and permission of the instructor.

    One 2-hour period.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 319 - Modeling Minds, Brains, and Behavior


    1 unit(s)
    In this course students learn to apply computational methods to the study of minds, brains, and behavior. The course examines a variety of approaches to modeling through readings, discussions, and hands-on programming. Topics and methods covered change depending on the interest of students in the class, but typically include agent-based models, symbolic models, and neural networks. Hands-on experience with modeling experimental data and computer programming are essential parts of the course. Students complete a semester-long modeling project in an area of interest to them. In addition to the importance of these approaches for students in Cognitive Science, the techniques explored are also of value to students in Neuroscience and Behavior as well as other behavioral sciences. Joshua de Leeuw.

    Prerequisite(s): At least one 200-level course in Cognitive Science or a related discipline; or permission of the instructor.

    One 3-hour period.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 320 - Autonomous Robotics Design Competition

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    This course gives students with an interest in robotics an opportunity to explore basic principles of robot design and programming in a hands-on laboratory environment. The specific nature of the task to be accomplished varies each year, but in all cases the problems to be solved require thinking about the key issues that confront any robot designer: How is the robot situated in its environment? How does the design of the robot’s body affect its intelligence? What are the optimal strategies for programming flexible intelligence in the robot (e.g., behavior-based or reactive systems, world modeling and planning systems, hybrid systems)? Students are organized into teams with balanced skill sets and compete to complete the assigned task most effectively in an end-of-semester competition. The design and construction components of the course are supported by classroom instruction in basic electronics, hardware design and building techniques, and relevant programming skills. Josh de Leeuw. Joshua de Leeuw.

    Prerequisite(s): Either COGS 211 , a 200-level CMPU course, or permission of the instructor.

    Students who have neither COGS 211  nor a 200-level CMPU course as prerequisites may still have sufficient background to take the course depending on other skills and should consult with the instructor about readiness to take the class.

    One 3-hour period and additional lab time required.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • COGS 399 - Senior Independent Work

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 to 1 unit(s)
    Individual or group advanced independent work with prior approval of the advisor and of the instructor who supervises the work. The Department.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Individual conferences with the instructor.

    Course Format: INT

Dance: I. Introductory

  
  • DANC 155 - Dance Improvisation


    0.5 unit(s)
    This is a non-performance oriented approach to discovering one’s movement potential and physical and thought patterns through improvisation. Utilizing contact improvisation, music visualization, and personal expression, this course is designed to develop freedom of thought and movement. The improvisation techniques range from aerobic to meditative. Creative games, spatial awareness, and problem solving are investigated in order to discover the innovative language of the body. Disability is not a limitation.

    Not offered in 2018/19.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 160 - Introduction to Ballet

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Introduction to the fundamentals of the ballet class; includes the basic exercises for the barre and centre. Class exercises and video materials introduce elements of ballet artistry, choreography, and performance. Miriam Mahdaviani-Goldstone.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 164 - Upper Level Beginner Ballet

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This course is for the student who has had some basic training in ballet; includes the entire barre and centre work. Class exercises and video materials introduce elements of ballet artistry, choreography, and performance. Miriam Mahdaviani-Goldstone.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 165 - Upper Level Beginner Ballet II

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This course is designed to reinforce basic training in ballet; includes the entire barre and preparation for more advanced centre work. Class exercises and video materials introduce elements of ballet artistry, choreography, and performance. Miriam Mahdaviani-Goldstone.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 164 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 166 - Low Intermediate Ballet I

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This is a course for the student who has good beginner training (complete barre and some centre work). The emphasis is on the development of steps for centre work, i.e., adagio, petit allegro, etc. Class exercises and video materials introduce elements of ballet artistry, choreography, and performance. Skyla Schreter.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 160  and DANC 165  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 167 - Low Intermediate Ballet II

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This course is continuation of the development of steps for centre work. Class exercises and video materials introduce elements of ballet artistry, choreography, and performance. Skyla Schreter.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 165  and DANC 166  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 170 - Movement Analysis

    Semester Offered: Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This course is designed to offer insight and information into body structure and movement aimed at increasing a body awareness in students of all movement disciplines.  Application of the material extends from the pedestrian experience into physical disciplines e.g.: athletics, dance, martial arts, yoga, physical therapy. Through observation, reading, exploration, discussion and analysis, the student is invited to increase body awareness and movement efficiency,  and to develop and  assimilate tools to optimize physical mechanics. With the tools of Laban Movement Analysis/Bartenieff Fundamentals (LMA/BF),  the study of basic anatomy and movement explorations, exercises and experiences, each student has the opportunity to expand awareness and integrate material fostering an increased understanding of personal movement methodology. Leslie Sachs.

    One 2-hour period.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 174 - Beginning Jazz Dance

    Semester Offered: Fall
    0.5 unit(s)
    Jazz dance, which can be defined as “popular dance of the times”, incorporates many different styles and eras of dance including cakewalk, Charleston, lindy-hop and swing, blues, tap, ballroom, rock and roll and hip-hop as well as use of modern and ballet vocabulary. There is an emphasis on body isolations, pulsing movements, rhythm patterns, weightedness and momentum. The class includes warm-up, traveling sequences and a final combination. Lisa Harvie.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 175 - Advanced Beginning Jazz

    Semester Offered: Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Continued work on the fundamentals taught in DANC 174 . More demanding combinations are presented. Lisa Harvie.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 194 - Beginning Modern Dance

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This course is an introduction to the basic principles and history of American modern dance. Class work introduces students to technical concepts involved in training the body to be an articulate, expressive instrument. The course includes some outside written work, performance attendance, and video viewing all aimed at giving a background necessary to the appreciation of dance as a creative art form. No prior dance experience is necessary. Modern Dance faculty.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 195 - Advanced Beginning Modern

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This class continues to develop on the movement principles introduced in Beginning Modern Dance. Modern Dance faculty.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 196 - Low Intermediate Modern

    Semester Offered: Fall
    0.5 unit(s)
    Continued work in the fundamentals of American modern dance movement from advanced beginning. Combinations become more demanding and students are introduced to etudes in various modern styles and techniques. Modern Dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 195  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH

Dance: II. Intermediate

  
  • DANC 215 - Dance Composition and the Craft of Choreography


    0.5 unit(s)
    An introduction to the elements of dance composition. Body, effort, shape and space are explored within the context of creating and developing a dance.  Motivation, style, creative elements and choreographic devices are investigated along with props, music, and sound, for a discovery of one’s physical voice facilitated through movement studies. Leslie Sachs.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 264 - Intermediate Ballet I

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Development of the classical ballet syllabus at the intermediate level. This course includes three 11/2-hour sessions per week with an added arranged hour to be used for work in one of the following areas: pointe, variations, terminology, theory, men’s class or adagio/partnering. Miriam Mahdaviani-Goldstone and Desmond Richardson.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Three 75-minute periods plus an arranged hour.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 265 - Intermediate Ballet II

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Includes further development of the classical ballet syllabus at the intermediate level. Miriam Mahdaviani-Goldstone and Desmond Richardson.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Three 75-minute periods plus an arranged hour.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 266 - Intermediate Ballet III

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Includes further development of the classical ballet syllabus at the intermediate level. Miriam Mahdaviani-Goldstone and Desmond Richardson.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Three 75-minute periods plus an arranged hour.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 267 - Intermediate Ballet IV

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Includes further development of the classical ballet syllabus at the intermediate level. Miriam Mahdaviani-Goldstone and Desmond Richardson.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Three 75-minute periods plus an arranged hour.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 274 - Intermediate Jazz I

    Semester Offered: Fall
    0.5 unit(s)
    Continued work in the different styles and eras of jazz dance. Traveling sequences and techniques become more demanding as does the final dance combination. Abby Saxon.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 174  and DANC 175  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 275 - Intermediate Jazz II


    0.5 unit(s)
    Continued work at the intermediate level of jazz technique including traditional styles such as Luigi and Fosse as well as moving on to more contemporary styles of the later twentieth century. Abby Saxon.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 274  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 276 - Hip Hop

    Semester Offered: Spring
    0.5 unit(s)


    This is an Intermediate-level Hip Hop dance course (prior experience or permission of the instructor is required).  Students learn and master the different elements that make up Hip Hop dance. Hip Hop’s core movement originated from African dance and was developed by inner-city African and Latinx Americans in the Bronx in the 1970s. It has since entered the mainstream dance culture and is performed all over the world. This course covers a wide range of Hip Hop styles and introduces students to the latest street/urban dance moves, including Breaking (Breakin, BBoyin, and BGirlin), Popping, Locking, and House.

    Hip Hop dance classes complement the offerings of the Dance department’s Ballet, Jazz and Modern courses, thus broadening the diversity and range of styles offered to Vassar dance students. It is available as another resource for the student choreographers on campus as they continue to develop their unique choreographic voice and vocabulary. Julian Llanos.

    Prerequisite(s): Prior Hip Hop dance experience or permission of the instructor.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: OTH

  
  • DANC 278 - Graham Technique and Repertory


    1 unit(s)
    This course is designed for Intermediate/Advanced level dancers who want to explore, in-depth, the codified technique of Martha Graham, a pioneer of American Modern Dance. Students learn excerpts from selected classic works of the Graham Repertory. Supplementary video viewing and a lecture during an arranged lab time are required. Mr. Rooks.

    Three 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 290 - Community-Engaged Learning

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 or 1 unit(s)
    To be elected in consultation with the adviser and the Office of Community-Engaged Learning.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • DANC 294 - Intermediate Modern Dance I

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Exercises and phrases continue from DANC 196 . Material builds in complexity and technical demand. Modern Dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 196  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 295 - Intermediate Modern Dance II

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    This class continues to develop on the movement concepts and investigations introduced in Low Intermediate Modern Dance. Modern Dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 294  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 297 - History of the Dance

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Independent reading.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 298 - Independent Work

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 or 1 unit(s)
    Study of a topic in depth at the Intermediate level.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the dance faculty sponsor.

    Course Format: OTH

Dance: III. Advanced

  
  • DANC 364 - Repertory Dance Theatre I

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Performance in repertory of master choreographers. Works by students and faculty are also offered. In addition, several workshops in new student choreography are given throughout the year. Auditions for intermediate and advanced students are held the first week in September. John Meehan and the dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Tow 2-hour periods plus arranged rehearsals.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 365 - Repertory Dance Theatre II

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    John Meehan and dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Two 2-hour periods plus arranged rehearsals.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 366 - Repertory Dance Theatre III

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    John Meehan and dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor.

    Two 2-hour periods plus arranged rehearsals.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 367 - Repertory Dance Theatre IV

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    John Meehan and dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    Two 2-hour periods plus arranged rehearsals.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 380 - NIQUE Contemporary Dance

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)


    NIQUE is the official techNIQUE of Complexions Contemporary Ballet founded by Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rhoden. This technique was developed with a total body approach to training and uses a fusion of Classical and Contemporary-based dance methods to explore both on and off-center movement.  NIQUE is geared toward dancers who want to broaden their understanding of the relationship between the upper and lower body, as well as the complexities of moving freely and clearly within a Contemporary style. 

    This technique uses a Classical Ballet structure as its foundation, yet allows momentum, and the integration of a fully mobile torso, weight shift, and dynamics to enhance the outcome. Contemporary in its perspective, NIQUE places a special emphasis on coordination, physical cognition, precision, efficiency, and clarity of form.

    The NIQUE training method is designed to take a dancer to the next level, through a series of fluid exercises constructed to build strength, stability, and overall placement. From the barre to center floor, NIQUE focuses on versatility and range - with a keen awareness of the fullness in physicality necessary to convey impactful dancing.

    Within the NIQUE class, students explore the full range of the class structure from Pre-Warm Up , Plie’s, Tendeus, Dégages, Shear & Shapes, Center floor exercises, Center adagio/ traveling adagio, petite allegro, fast floor work, pirouettes, grand allegro and much more, all to ensure that the dancer has a cognitive experience in transforming their knowledge of Contemporary Ballet.

    Students write out their research on the means in which contemporary ballet bridges the gap between modern and classical dance.  Video content of various Contemporary Ballet companies such as Complexions Contemporary Ballet will be shown to the students to engage the class in a dialogue of investigation and transformation. Desmond Richardson

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: OTH

  
  • DANC 381 - Choreography, Performance and Production

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Choreography, Performance and Production utilizes tools of craft and improvisation in development of an evening-length work (20-minute piece) to be performed to an open house with Q & A to follow. Students are guided through processes from the origination to the development of an original dance work, which includes design elements of music, lighting, and costuming.  Students select dancers, establish regular weekly rehearsal times, maintain a production schedule, formulate a budget (when applicable), coordinate advertising, and document their experience. Leslie Sachs.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.

    One 2-hour period and individual conferences with the instructor.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • DANC 394 - Advanced Modern Dance I

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Continuation and enlargement of all previously taught material. In addition, advanced work in phrasing and musicality is combined with the development of a personal ‘voice’ or style in one’s dancing. Modern Dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 294  and DANC 295  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 395 - Advanced Modern Dance II

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Modern Dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 294  and DANC 295  or equivalent

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 396 - Advanced Modern Dance III

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Modern Dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 294  and DANC 295  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 397 - Advanced Modern Dance IV

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    Modern Dance faculty.

    Prerequisite(s): DANC 294  and DANC 295  or equivalent.

    Course Format: OTH
  
  • DANC 399 - Senior Independent Work

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 or 1 unit(s)
    Study of a topic in depth at the Advanced level.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the dance faculty sponsor.

    Course Format: OTH

Drama: I. Introductory

  
  • DRAM 102 - Introduction to Theater-Making: Theory and Practice

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    An exploration of the strategies theatre artists use to approach the realization of dramatic texts on the stage. Through weekly practical projects, the class examines the challenges posed by a variety of dramatic genres.  Amanda Culp (Fall), Chris Grabowski (Fall).

    Two 75-minute periods, plus one 75-minute laboratory.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 103 - Introduction to Stagecraft

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5 unit(s)
    An introduction to the fundamentals of stagecraft, including the processes of flat and platform construction, scene painting, rigging, and theatrical safety. James Hunting.

    Two 75-minute periods, one 2 hour lab, and 16 hours of crew time are required.Six-week course.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 104 - The Acting Company


    1 unit(s)
    Designed to provide an opportunity for undeclared acting students who have taken DRAM 102  to continue exploring their collaborate skills from the point of view of the actor. This includes script analysis, rehearsal preparation, historical research, and etiquette and traditions. The lab portion of the class facilitates the collaboration between acting and directing students who participate in a joint lab. Christopher Grabowski.

    Two 2-hour periods; additional lab time required.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 143 - The Genius of Chekhov: Theatre and Tales

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    (Same as  RUSS 143 ) Close reading of major plays and selected  short stories by Anton Chekhov. Focus on the forms and themes of Chekhov’s works, as well as their historical contexts in terms of dramaturgy, reception and artistic legacy. Special attention is given to the spectrum of interpretations of Chekhov’s works in a transnational context. Accompanied by film screenings.  Nikolai Firtich.

    Open to all classes. Readings and discussions are in English. Russian majors see RUSS 243 

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 190 - Theater Production Participation


    .5 or 1 unit(s)
    This course provides the opportunity for students with declared majors other than Drama to participate in the performance, design, or technical aspects of department productions in the Experimental Theater of Vassar College.  Stephen Jones.

    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the department. 

    May not be repeated.

    One 3-hour period plus rehearsal and crew calls.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS

Drama: II. Intermediate

  
  • DRAM 200 - The Experimental Theater

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    0.5, 1 unit(s)


    This course focuses on putting theory and technique into practice through participation in the performance, design, or technical aspects of department productions in the Experimental Theater of Vassar College. Recent and ongoing productions include: The Skin of Our Teeth, Miss Julie, Lysistrata, Euridice by Sarah Ruhl, The Cripple of Inishmaan, Rez Sisters, Ghosts, The Way of the World, Hub Crawl (an original musical), The Passion Play, Servant of Two Masters, Measure for Measure, Las Meninas (Lynn Nottage), A Little Night Music, Crimes of the Heart, The Cherry Orchard, The Importance of Being Earnest. The department.

    May be repeated up to four times.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 , DRAM 103 , and permission of the department.

    One 3-hour period plus rehearsal and crew calls.

    Course Format: OTH

  
  • DRAM 202 - The Art of Theater Making

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    This course is a sequel to DRAM 102 . Students explore more deeply the complexities of interpretation and realization of texts on the stage. The source material includes poems, plays, and short stories, and culminates in the conceiving and staging of a non-dramatic text. Amanda Culp.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102  or special permission of the instructors.

    Two 2-hour periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 203 - The Actor’s Craft: The Study of Acting

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    The Actor’s Craft is a studio course designed to look at the initial psycho-physical, kin-esthetic process involved in developing the actor’s instrument. Because there is no “one way” of approaching acting, which is the definitive line on acting, we “sample” techniques of several theater masters during the course of the semester, i.e., Hagen, Bogart, Michael Checkov. Conrad Schott.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 , DRAM 103 , DRAM 206  and permission of the department.

    Two 2-hour periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 204 - Theatre Technologies: Stage Lighting

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    This course is an in-depth study of the technology and theories used in the theatrical production process for theatrical performance. Through readings and practicum, the history and evolution of stage lighting are explored. Stephen Jones.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 .

    One 2-hour period plus one 2-hour lab.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 205 - The Actor’s Voice

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    The Actor’s Voice is a practical introduction to the language, tools, and VOICE techniques used by actors. Through the use of diverse voice, breath, and body exercises, text analysis, and monolog work; we explore, develop, and strengthen your analytical skills, confidence, stage presence, general storytelling abilities, and of course… your natural voice. Conrad Schott.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 , DRAM 206  and permission of the instructor.

    One 3-hour period.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 206 - Movement for Actors

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    This course offers a rigorous training in stage movement for actors, which includes elements of yoga, butoh ,and movement improvisation. Students learn to understand neutral posture, alignment, and to explore dynamic and expressive qualities of movement, as well as the methods of developing a richly physical development of character. Concepts from the Laban Movement Analysis, experimental theatre, and post-modern dance are used.  Leslie Sachs.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 .

    One 3-hour period.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 207 - Graphic Communications for Theater


    1 unit(s)
    This course considers the various techniques of hand and computer based communication used in presenting conceptual ideas in theatre design. Areas of study include drafting and rendering for scenic and lighting environments.  Stephen Jones.

    One 2-hour period plus one 2-hour lab.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 208 - Draping and Pattern-Development for Stage Production

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    This course focuses on developing a two-dimensional pattern into a three dimensional form. Students learn basic pattern-making, draping and sewing skills. Kenisha Kelly.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102  and permission of the instructor.

    One 3-hour period; additional lab time required.

    .

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 209 - Introduction to Costume Design for the Stage

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    This course focuses on the study and practice of visual representation utilizing the principles and elements of design in conjunction with historical and conceptual research in order to build collaboration, design presentation and creative thinking skills. Students will create production design assignments through the use of the mediums practiced throughout this course. Kenisha Kelly.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 .

    Two 2-hour periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 210 - Introduction to Playwriting

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    This course emphasizes the student’s work through the craft of playwriting, theatrical storytelling and narrative. Reading of plays, discussion, writing and reading aloud of material with group feedback constitute the major portion of this course. Generative writing exercises are done in class or suggested for outside class time. The course ends with informal readings of students’ final plays. A communal workshop atmosphere prevails so that students engage in a collaborative approach to problem solving, through rewriting, which dramatic writing requires. The collaboration process between directors, actors and designers is also discussed. Peter Gil-Sheridan.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 .

    One 3-hour period.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 212 - Neutral Mask


    1 unit(s)


    Through Space, Force, and Rhythm, the Neutral Mask teaches Silence, Balance, and Calm, which guides the actor to physical Freedom, Awareness, and Expression. Focusing primarily on the methodologies of Jacques Lecoq, the work is often improv-based, and draws on historical movements like Commedia Dell’arte and clown, as well as Lecoq’s famous Neutral Mask technique and psychological exercises involving elements, colors, and seasons to promote a more mentally and physically liberated actor.

     

     

     

     

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102  and DRAM 103 .

    One 3-hour period.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS

  
  • DRAM 213 - Stage Management in Production

    Semester Offered: Fall and Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Introduction to Stage Management in Production focuses on the skills and mechanics necessary to contribute to the production process as a Stage Manager. This practicum course focuses on organization, leadership and communication in a production setting.  Stephen Jones.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102  and permission of the department.

    One 3-hour period plus rehearsal and crew calls.

    Course Format: INT
  
  • DRAM 221 - Sources of World Drama

    Semester Offered: Fall
    1 unit(s)
    Drama 221/DRAM 222  is a yearlong course that provides an introduction to dramatic literature and performance practice from around the world. In 221 students read an array of dramatic texts from the works of the ancient Greeks to English comedies of the seventeenth century, along with works from Japan, China, and India. The course balances an exploration of dramatic literature and staging with an investigation of the theories that have affected both the literature and practice of theater, such as Aristotle’s The Poetics, neoclassicism, and Bharata’s The Natyasastra. The course focuses on a series of critical periods and explores the relationship between the theater and the culture responsible for its creation. Denise Walen.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102 .

    Yearlong course 221/DRAM 222 .

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 222 - Sources of World Drama

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    Drama 222 is the second half of the yearlong DRAM 221 /222. This course provides an introduction to dramatic literature and performance practice from around the world. In 222 students read an array of dramatic texts from the eighteenth century through contemporary dramas such as August: Osage County and works by Sarah Ruhl and Martin McDonagh, along with works from Africa, the Carribean, and the Middle East. The course balances an exploration of dramatic literature and staging with an investigation of the theories that have affected both the literature and practice of theater, such as Realism, Epic Theater, Absurdism, and Theater of Cruelty. The course focuses on a series of critical periods and explores the relationship between the theater and the culture responsible for its creation. Denise Walen.

    Prerequisite(s): DRAM 102  and DRAM 221 .

    Yearlong course DRAM 221 /222.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 228 - African American Literature

    Semester Offered: Spring
    1 unit(s)
    (Same as AFRS 228  and ENGL 228 ) Topic for 2021/22b: From the Page to the Stage: Turning Black Literature to Black Drama. This course explores the dramatic possibilities of 20th century canonical black literature by means of critical reading, critical writing, and critical performance. Students examine key novels in their historical context paying attention to the criticism and theory that have shaped their reception. They then attempt to transform parts of these texts into scenes as informed by past and present theories of performance and theatre-making. Their work culminates in a public performance of the pieces they have conceived. Tyrone Simpson and Shona Tucker.

    This course satisfies the REGS requirement for the English major.

    Two 75-minute periods and one 2-hour laboratory.

    Course Format: CLS
  
  • DRAM 231 - History of Fashion for the Stage


    1 unit(s)
    This historical survey focuses on the transformation of dress from the ancient world to contemporary fashion.The course investigates how clothing influenced the cultural, economic, and political developments of Western Europe over time. Kenisha Kelly.

    Two 75-minute periods.

    Not offered in 2021/22.

    Course Format: CLS
 

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