2026-2027 Academic Catalog

Category: 26-27 Catalog

2026-2027 Academic Catalog

  • Registration – Current Students

    Registration in Self-Service

    Online registration is available each year to eligible students through Self-Service/Student Planning. Students should check their degree requirements before registering for classes and schdule an Academic Advising appointment to verify degree progress, courses and/or for assistance with online scheduling.

    Registration Priority dates

    Priority Registration for current students opens for the consecutive Fall and Winter academic semesters every April. Summer registration opens in August the year prior. Current students receive notifications of “priority registration dates” that align with class levels and/or enrollment status.

    Current students with the following Enrollment Status can register on the first day of “Priority Registration” each April:

    • Graduate Studies
    • Teacher Certification (TC-post degree students only)
    • Veteran students

    Undergraduate Students

    Priority Registration dates are based on Class Level (number of credits):

    • Class Level (Senior, Junior, Sophomore, and Freshmen) is determined by credits (completed and in-progress credits combined for registration).
    • Registration dates are not based on studio level.
    • Registration dates for each class level is listed on the Academic Calendar.
    • Students cannot register before their eligible date (and will receive an error message).

    Students may enroll in courses starting at 12midnight on designated registration dates. Registration deadlines apply for each semester separately.

    Registration Requirements

    All Current Students are required to complete the following PRIOR TO REGISTRATION EACH YEAR (or as required based on date of original submission):

    • Tuition & Registration Agreement
    • Submit Emergency Contact Information
    • Verify Contact/Student Profile Information

    Additional Registration Requirements

    Current students must also verify if any required procedures, student records or account restrictions are in place. Notifications regarding action items will appear in Self-Service prior to registration or may be required for completion at the time of a registration attempt.

    Examples of additional requirements for registration include:

    • Account holds for past due tuition payments
    • College transcript required
    • Academic holds for missing program/department requirements
    • First Year Meetings – Advising
    • Rising senior meeting – Advising
    • Probation/Academic Progress holds
    • Course registration permission required from Department (i.e., missing prerequisites, course is restricted to major, etc)

  • Registration – New Students

    Preregistration

    New admitted students who have deposited for enrollment into to a CCS degree program or for the post baccalaureate (TC) program for Art Education are preregistered for their first semester.

    • Students are only registerd for required courses of their admitted program.
    • Transfer credits that have been confirmed are considered when schedules are created.
    • Students with missing college transfer or other credit placement at the time of preregistration are required to submit missing transcripts and/or test scores upon immediate availability for accurate schedule adjustments.

    Advising & Registration – Undergraduate

    All new/incoming undergraduate students will attend the required Academic Advising & Registration Session for New Students:

    • Summer sessions take place in June/July for Fall registration
    • October sessions take place for Winter registration

    Advising & Registration – Graduate and TC

    Graduate and TC students will attend a required Academic Advising & Registration meeting with the Graduate/TC student Advisor.

    • Individual Appointments are scheduled May – July for Fall registration and in October for Winter registration

    Registration Requirements

    All New Students are required to complete the following for registration of an academic semester:

    • Program Acknowledgement and Tuition/Registration Agreement
    • Submit Emergency Contact Information
    • Verify Contact/Student Profile Information
    • Attend the required Academic Advising & Registration Session

    To maintain registered credits, students must review and confirm their program and class schedules during Advising & Registration sessions. Students are informed of program requirements, degree timelines and methods for schedules and program change options.

    Schedule Changes

    After students have attended an Advising & Registration session, students have access to adjust day/time offerings online in Self-Service. Students are guided to follow-up with their CCS Academic Advisor by appointment to review further changes and/or questions regarding their major.

    Self-Service Notifications

    Preregisterd students will see notifications in Self-Service regarding requirements for registration and/or for enrollment records (i.e., missing transcripts, student holds, etc)

    Withdraw decision to attend

    Registered Students with confirmed schedules who do not plan on attending CCS must contact the Academic Advising & Registration Office to request an “incoming student withdrawal”, prior to the start of the semester. Registration, Tuition and withdrawal policies apply for all scheduled courses.

    Preregisterd Students who have not confirmed schedules and have not attended the required Advising/Registration session, risk being removed from courses prior to the start of the semester. Students may request to reregister after a withdrawal by contacting the Academic Advising & Registration Office (313.664.7672).

    *All academic and registration policies are provided in the college catalog and general registration/tuition policies are viewable in the Self-Service student agreements sections.

    *All registered students are required to attend New Student Orientation during the month of August. Students are notified about enrollment requirements prior to attending Advising & Registration sessions (provided by the Academic Advising & Registration Office) and mandatory New Student Orientation events (provided by the Student Life Office).

  • Student Accounts

    Accepted and enrolled students registered for credit courses at CCS are assigned a CCS student username and password from Information Technology Services to use the primary CCS platforms:

    1. Access Manager: to view CCS campus apps and services
    2. Self-Service: 
      • access student records (student profile information, grades, enrollment verifications, etc)
      • view student notifications and/or restrictions (holds) that need action
      • make tuition payments and access financial aid resources
      • utilize “student planning” in self-service to review academic program information, register classes and accept agreements
      • coordinate degree/course planning with CCS Academic Advisors; view assigned academic advisor and department mentor(s)
    3. Canvas:  to access registered course syllabi, assignment content, submit assignments and view course instruction/details
    4. CCS Email: all campus communication, student records and tuition notifications are sent to students using their assigned CCS email, as the official form of communication.*

    *Registered students are responsible for checking CCS email periodically for campus updates and student account notifications.

    Various access timelines exists and may depend on student status. Additional Information and updates provided by the Information Technology Department to students each academic year.

    “All students will have access to various resources including Google Workspace for Education (email, calendar, drive, etc), Adobe Suite (credit and pre-college students), VDI (virtual desktop infrastructure), LinkedIn Learning, library databases, student self-service, Canvas learning management system, and associated other services.“

  • Student Agreements – Program Acknowledgement

    Incoming Students are recommended to complete a Program Acknowledgement before registration to confirm their understanding of expectations, responsibilities and commitment required for the CCS Undergraduate Program. The Program Acknowledgement outlines general expectations for the CCS Bachelor’s degree:

    Program Acknowledgement

    By accepting this agreement, I acknowledge my enrollment into the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree program assigned to my Self-Service/Student Planning account. As a new student to CCS I am assigned a Catalog Year which defines the current requirements for my degree program. This Catalog Year is listed in Student Planning/My Progress and has a Curriculum Chart affiliated with my major. The Curriculum Chart and “My Progress” screen display all course requirements and the number of credits required to graduate.

    CCS undergraduate majors are outlined on the Curriculum Chart as a four-year program with the recommended number of credits and courses to register per semester. In the event I request or choose to alter my program or number of credits per semester (i.e., change majors, add a minor, register fewer credits in a semester, etc.); I am aware that it may affect or change my timeline for graduation (or my financial aid awards). I may track my progress towards degree completion using the “My Progress” screen in Student Planning. I am responsible for completing “all” required credits that are not satisfied before graduating, and may consult with my Academic Advisor to review degree-planning options.

    Students With Transfer Credits

    Transfer credits do not guarantee a shorter time-line for graduation, but may lessen the expected workload per semester. Transfer students should meet with their Academic Advisor to confirm potential timeline adjustments and to review degree plan options.

    Registration & Class Level

    Enrolling into an undergraduate degree program allows for pre-registration for the upcoming registration periods announced on the Academic Calendar. Pre-registration for current students is based on class level. Class level is determined by the sum of completed credits towards your degree and CCS credits in-progress (during a current semester).

    I understand that the number of credits I complete each semester will determine my class level for future registration. I also understand that if I do not meet the class level requirements for future courses, I may be required to obtain approval before registration (or I may be required to take designated courses in a later semester).

    Attendance

    I am expected to follow attendance policies outlined in the syllabus provided for each course and should communicate attendance concerns with appropriate faculty. Poor attendance may negatively affect grades. I am responsible for withdrawing any course that I stop attending within the published drop/withdrawal deadlines on the Academic Calendar. If non-attendance is confirmed for any registered course during the semester, Financial Aid may be adjusted accordingly.

    Satisfactory Academic Progress and GPA Requirements

    As a degree seeking student, I must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0, (additional requirements apply for Financial Aid applicants) which include passing at least two-thirds of classes attempted). I understand that my academic progress is monitored each semester by the Financial Aid Office and Academic Advising & Registration to ensure that I am meeting enrollment and Financial Aid eligibility requirements. Additional GPA requirements apply to Art Education programs, honors acknowledgements, and specialized course opportunities.

    Program and Credit Requirements

    Students who do not meet program and/or credit requirements from the 1st and 2nd years (as provided on Curriculum Charts for each major) may receive academic holds, before proceeding further in their program (see Junior Status Policy). Approval is required for any prerequisite overrides and/or program course exceptions.

    Communication

    As a CCS student, I am responsible for checking my CCS student email on a regular basis and understand that all communication related to my academic records, registration, student services, department and campus notifications will be sent to my CCS Gmail account.

    As an undergraduate student at CCS I will be informed of the following requirements during my studies at CCS:

    • Required Academic Advising meetings
    • Departmental meetings
    • Required Department Reviews
    • Required Pre-Graduation Review
    • Required Application for Graduation
    • Upon request for program changes or additions (major changes, studio minors, internship opportunities, studio course placement, etc.), additional portfolio reviews may be required.

    I can work with my Academic Advisor using my records in Student Planning to discuss program/credit options, questions and concerns regarding my progress towards degree completion.

    I understand that Student & Academic Services are available to me as an enrolled undergraduate student to support my personal, academic, professional growth and development.

    I understand that any concerns or questions related to my tuition costs, can be reviewed by the Business Services Offices or Financial Aid Office. If I need to reevaluate my credits per semester or adjust my degree plan, I can discuss options with a CCS Academic Advisor.

    As stated in the CCS Tuition & Registration Agreement, if there is any need to withdraw from CCS, I must contact the Academic Advising & Registration Office immediately and follow procedures outlined for withdrawal and/or leave of absence.

  • Student Agreements – Tuition & Registration

    All students (new and continuing) are required to complete the CCS Tuition and Registration Agreement each academic year to acknowledge and accept registration/tuition policies for each semester they intend to register. The tuition & Registration Agreement is accessible through the Self-Service menu under “Student Agreements”.

    Tuition & Registration Agreement

    This Tuition & Registration Agreement applies to all charges and registration that may take place for the 2024-2025 Academic Year.

    I understand that I must register for each semester separately (Fall, Winter, and/or Summer semesters) and tuition charges will be applied for each registered semester (in addition to housing, meal plans or other applicable fees).

    Upon registration of courses, I understand that I am responsible for payment of my tuition (and all other applicable charges) by the deadlines listed on the Academic Calendar, for each registered semester. See Payment Agreement & Disclosure of Collection Costs

    The balance of my charges can be found in Self-Service under “Student Finance” or I may contact the Business Services Office for balance and Tuition Payment Options.

    To review and confirm financial aid eligibility, I can contact the Financial Aid Office and/or review the Financial Aid section in Self-Service.

    DROPS/WITHDRAWALS

    If I no longer wish to attend the College for Creative Studies OR if I need to change/drop credits to adjust my course load, the request to drop/withdraw must be initiated by me (the student); following the drop/withdrawal procedures and deadlines published by the Academic Advising & Registration Office.

    I understand that Complete Withdrawals (removal of all registered classes) cannot be dropped online. To request a COMPLETE withdrawal, I must contact the following office(s):

    • International Undergraduate and International Graduate Studies students – contact the Global Engagement Office.
    • All other Undergraduate, Graduate and/or Teacher Certification students – contact the Academic Advising & Registration Office.

    I understand that if I stop attending any course, it is NOT automatically dropped and I am responsible for charges or grades earned due to not attending. Refunds and/or tuition relief will only be granted according to the published policy and/or by refund deadlines indicated on the Academic Calendar.

    I have read and understand the tuition withdrawal and refund percentage deadlines and the completed list of deadlines for each semester is outlined on the CCS Academic Calendar .

    Important Fall 2024 Dates

    • FALL 2024 CLASSES BEGIN ON SEPTEMBER 3, 2024 LAST DAY FOR SECTION CHANGES – SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
    • LAST DAY TO DROP A CLASS FOR 100% REFUND – SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
    • FULL CHARGES APPLY TO ALL DROPS/WITHDRAWALS (no refunds) OCTOBER 1 – Nov 22, 2024
    • LAST DAY TO DROP/WITHDRAW A CLASS (for Fall 2024) – NOVEMBER 22, 2024

    Important Winter 2025 Dates

    • WINTER 2025 CLASSES BEGIN ON JANUARY 13, 2025
    • LAST DAY FOR SECTION CHANGES – JANUARY 21, 2025
    • LAST DAY TO DROP A CLASS FOR 100% REFUND – JANUARY 21, 2025
    • FULL CHARGES APPLY TO ALL DROPS/WITHDRAWALS (no refunds) – February 11 – March 28, 2025
    • LAST DAY TO DROP/WITHDRAW A CLASS (for Winter 2025) – March 28, 2025

    I understand that updates to my student account and registration is sent to my CCS student email. It is my responsibility to check Self-Service and my CCS email regularly to avoid missing important communication from the Academic Advising & Registration Office, Financial Aid Office, Business Services, and other college departments.

  • Studio Art & Craft

    Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Requirements

    Catalog Year 26/27

    Standard 4 Year Pathway (full-time status)

    Total Credits 120-122

    First Year

    First Semester = 16 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SLP-007 CCS First Year Experience *1
      DFN-103 Drawing I: Materials & Methods3
      DFN-116 3D Techniques3
      DFN-118 3D Design-Forms & Space3
      SAC-105 Survey & Methods I3
      AHV-100 Introduction to Material Culture (CR)3

    Second Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      DFN-104 Drawing II: Drawing as Studio Practice3
      DFN-119 Digital Techniques3
     DFN-120 Design Color & Context3
      SAC-106 Survey and Methods II3
      WRT-101 Composition I (CR) †3

    Second Year

    Third Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SAC-205 Sophomore Seminar3
      Sophomore SAC Studio (from approved course list)3
      Sophomore SAC Studio (from approved course list)3
      WRT-102 Composition II (CR)3
      Choose one: AHV-203 or AHV-204 Global Art History I/II (CR)3

    Fourth Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
    Choose one course:
      DDG-103 Rapid Prototyping for Studio Arts
      DDG-253 Time & Digital Media    		3
      Sophomore SAC Studio (from approved course list)3
      Sophomore SAC Studio (from approved course list)3
      AHV-218 Contemporary Art (MR)3
      Humanities (choose from approved list) (CE)3

    Third Year

    Fifth Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SAC-380 Junior Studio I3
      SAC Major Elective (see approved list)3
      SAC Major Elective (see approved list)3
      General Education Elective 200-400 (CR)3
      General Education Elective 200-400 (CR)3

    Sixth Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SAC-381 Junior Studio II3
      SAC-303 Professional Pract for Artist3
      SAC Major Elective (see approved list)3
      SAC Major Elective (see approved list)3
      Science Elective 200-400 (CE)3

    Fourth Year

    Seventh Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SAC-450 Senior Studio I3
      SAC-400 Senior Seminar3
      SAC Major Elective (see approved list)3
      AHV 200-400 Art History & Visual Culture Course (CE)3
      Open Elective3

    Eighth Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SAC-451 Senior Studio II3
      SAC Major Elective (see approved list)3
      General Education Elective 200-4003
      General Education Elective 200-4003
      Open Elective3

    Additional ”Program & Credit Requirement Details” attached; includes ”approved course lists” and ”recommended courses (RC)” for any requirements with noted selections. Enrolled students should view Self-Service (My Progress/Plan & Schedule) for complete program information; see catalog for additional course details and descriptions.

    This plan is provided for use as a guide only and is based on full-time status with successful completion of credits outlined per semester. Degree Timelines and requirements may vary based on actual program, credits completed per semester and/or catalog year. Students are responsible for confirming completion of all requirements before graduating (use program/student resources to support degree progression). Minimum Cumulative GPA of 2.0 required.

    Program & Credit Requirement Details

    Degree RequirementsTotal credits requiredRequirement Details
      First Year Experience1.0SLP-007 is waived for eligible transfer students with 12.0 (or more) college.
      Foundations18.0Required for all majors. Successfully complete listed DFN Foundation courses for enrolled major; requirements may vary per major.
    (TR) = Additional transfer consideration for DFN-138 & DFN-142, based on review of CDS majors.
      General Education36.0Liberal Arts courses required for all undergraduate majors; total credits may vary per program.
      General Education Undergrad CORE Requirements (CR)12.0Successfully complete WRT & AHV core general education prerequisites requirements (Composition pathways may vary based on completed assessments, test scores or transfer credits).
      General Education MAJOR Requirements (MJ)3.0Successfully complete major specific Liberal Arts. Requirements vary per major.
      General Education Undergrad CORE Electives (CE)9.0Successfully complete core general education electives required for all UG majors (Science, Humanities, Art History & Visual Culture) as outlined on 4 year pathway/degree requirements:
    3.0 cr. Science: Successfully complete one course from the SCI subject; 200-400 level
    3.0 cr. Humanities Option: Successfully complete one of the following approved courses: LIT 239, LIT 203, DHS 201, DSS 215, DSS 240 or DPL 201
    3.0 cr. Art History & Visual Culture: Successfully complete course from AHV subject, 200-400 level
      General Education Electives12.0Successfully complete any non-required 200-400 level Liberal Arts course from subject codes: AHV, BUS, DHS, DPL, DSS, SCI, WRT, LIT
    (Total Gen.Ed Elective credits vary per major).

    (RC) Recommended course towards General Education Elective credits: BUS 213 Business Practices
      Major §60.0Studio and/or lecture courses specific to major focus.
      Major Courses §42.0Successfully complete listed SAC courses in 4 year plan, by recommended sequence (based on prerequisites).
      Major Electives18.0Successfully complete any (non-required) course within the below Studio Art & Craft subject areas to satisfy SAC MAJOR ELECTIVE credits. Must select courses that do not already apply towards other degree program credits:
    Additional courses approved to fulfill Animation Major Electives
    DCE (SAC Ceramics)
    DDG (SAC Digital Media)
    DFA (SAC Painting & Drawing)
    DFD (SAC Textile & Fibers)
    DGL (SAC Glass)
    DME (SAC Metal/Jewelry)
    DPM (SAC Printmaking)
    DSC (SAC Sculpture)
      Open Electives6.0Successfully complete 100-400 level courses from any Undergraduate subject (Studio or Lecture).
    Total Program Credits121.0Total credits required 120 – 122 ‡
    Undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts program, GPA minimum requirement = 2.0

    Footnotes

    * ELS 101 Composition I for Multilingual Students 4.0 cr.
    † WRT 101/102 Self Placement Survey available.
    ‡ Based on SLP 007 (1.0 cr.) and ELS 101 (4.0 cr.)§ Remaining Major course sequence impacts timeline to degree completion.

  • Transcript & Score Requirements (updates in progress)

    High School Transcripts (U.S)

    High School Transcripts (International)

    College Transcripts (U.S)

    College Transcripts (International)

    Advanced Placement Scores

    International Baccalaureate (IB) Scores

    Dual Enrollment

    Home Schooled Transcripts

    GED Transcripts

  • Transportation Design

    Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Requirements

    Catalog Year 26/27

    Standard 4 Year Pathway (full-time status)

    Total Credits 120-122

    First Year

    First Semester = 15-16 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SLP-007 CCS First Year Experience *1
      DFN-101 Drawing I: Rapid Concepts3
      DFN-116 3D Techniques3
      DFN-117 2D Design Principles3
      DTR-125 Freshman Transportation Design Studio I3
      AHV-100 Introduction to Material Culture (CR)3

    Second Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      DFN-112 Drawing II: Style & Skill3
      DFN-118 3D Design-Forms & Space3
      DTR-126 Freshman Transportation Design Studio II3
      DTR-113 Visual Communication I3
      WRT-101 Composition I † (CR)3

    Second Year

    Third Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      DTR-201 Visual Communication II3
      DTR-221 Design Theory I3
      DTR-231 Digital Modeling I3
      DTR-232 Sophomore Transportation Design Studio3
      WRT-102 Composition II (CR)3

    Fourth Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      DTR-202 Visual Communication III3
      DTR-222 Design Theory II: Mobility3
      DTR-233 Sophomore Transportation Design Studio3
      DTR-241 Digital Modeling II3
      DTR-257 Human Factors3

    Third Year

    Fifth Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
    Based on department placement:
      DTR-331 Junior Interior Design Studio
      DTR-333 Junior Exterior Design Studio
      DTR-335 Junior Mobility Design Studio
      DTR-337 Junior Vehicles Design Studio    		3
      DTR-302 Visual Communication IV3
      DTR-304 Portfolio and Presentation Design3
      DTR-305 Vehicle Systems and Packaging3
      DTR-362 Digital Modeling III3

    Sixth Semester = 16.5 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
    Based on department placement:
      DTR-332 Junior Interior Design Studio II
      DTR-334 Junior Exterior Design Studio II
      DTR-336 Junior Mobility Design Studio II
      DTR-338 Junior Vehicles Design Studio II    		3
      DTR-371 Materials and Manufacturing Processes3
     DTR-303 Visual Communication V1.5
     DTR-461 Digital Modeling IV3
      AHV-241 History of Modern Design (MR)3
      Choose one: AHV-203 or AHV-204 Global Art History I/II (CR)3

    Fourth Year

    Seventh Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
    Based on department placement:
      DTR-431 Senior Interior Design Studio
      DTR-433 Senior Exterior Design Studio
      DTR-435 Senior Mobility Design Studio
      DTR-437 Senior Vehicles Design Studio    		3
      DTR-403 Visual Communication VI3
      Product Design Major Elective3
      AHV 200-400 Art History & Visual Culture Course (CE)3
      General Education Elective 200-4003
      Open Elective3

    Eighth Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
    Based on department placement:
      DTR-432 Senior Interior Design Studio II
      DTR-434 Senior Exterior Design Studio II
      DTR-436 Senior Mobility Design Studio II
      DTR-438 Senior Vehicles Design Studio II    		3
      Humanities: Choose from approved list (CE)3
      Science Elective 200-400 (CE)3
      General Education Elective 200-4003
      General Education Elective 200-4003

    Additional ”Program & Credit Requirement Details” attached; includes ”approved course lists” and ”recommended courses (RC)” for any requirements with noted selections. Enrolled students should view Self-Service (My Progress/Plan & Schedule) for complete program information; see catalog for additional course details and descriptions.

    This plan is provided for use as a guide only and is based on full-time status with successful completion of credits outlined per semester. Degree Timelines and requirements may vary based on actual program, credits completed per semester and/or catalog year. Students are responsible for confirming completion of all requirements before graduating (use program/student resources to support degree progression). Minimum Cumulative GPA of 2.0 required.

    Program & Credit Requirement Details

    Degree RequirementsTotal credits requiredRequirement Details
      First Year Experience1.0SLP-007 is waived for eligible transfer students with 12.0 (or more) college.
      Foundations15.0Required for all majors. Successfully complete listed DFN Foundation courses for enrolled major; requirements may vary per major.
      General Education33.0Liberal Arts courses required for all undergraduate majors; total credits may vary per program.
      General Education Undergrad CORE Requirements (CR)12.0Successfully complete WRT & AHV core general education prerequisites requirements (Composition pathways may vary based on completed assessments, test scores or transfer credits).
      General Education MAJOR Requirements (MR)3.0Successfully complete major specific Liberal Arts. Requirements vary per major.
      General Education Undergrad CORE Electives (CE)9.0Successfully complete core general education electives required for all UG majors (Science, Humanities, Art History & Visual Culture) as outlined on 4 year pathway/degree requirements:
    3.0 cr. Science: Successfully complete one course from the SCI subject; 200-400 level
    3.0 cr. Humanities Option: Successfully complete one of the following approved courses: LIT 239, LIT 203, DHS 201, DSS 215, DSS 240 or DPL 201
    3.0 cr. Art History & Visual Culture: Successfully complete course from AHV subject, 200-400 level
      General Education Electives9.0Successfully complete any non-required 200-400 level Liberal Arts course from subject codes: AHV, BUS, DHS, DPL, DSS, SCI, WRT, LIT
    (Total Gen.Ed Elective credits vary per major).
      Major §69.0Studio and/or lecture courses specific to major focus.
      Major Courses §69.0Successfully complete listed DTR courses in 4 year plan, by recommended sequence (based on prerequisites)
      Major Electives0.0Non-required major courses with subject code DTR are considered major electives; exceptions require approval.
      Open Electives3.0Successfully complete 100-400 level courses from any Undergraduate subject (Studio or Lecture).
    Total Program Credits121.0Total credits required 120 – 122 ‡
    Undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts program, GPA minimum requirement = 2.0

    Footnotes

    * ELS 101 Composition I for Multilingual Students 4.0 cr.
    † WRT 101/102 Self Placement Survey available.
    ‡ Based on SLP 007 (1.0 cr.) and ELS 101 (4.0 cr.)
    § Remaining Major course sequence impacts timeline to degree completion.

  • Undeclared

    Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Requirements

    Catalog Year 26/27

    Total BFA Credits Required for CCS Majors 120-122 ††

    Total Credits 120-122

    First Year

    First Semester = 16 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      SLP-007 CCS First Year Experience *1
      DFN Foundation Course3
      DFN Foundation Course3
      DFN Foundation Course3
      DFN-150 Discovering Your Practice3
      AHV-100 Introduction to Material Culture (CR)3

    Second Semester = 15 Credit Hours

    Course RequirementCredits
      DFN Foundation Course 3
      DFN Foundation Course 3
      DFN Foundation Course or Major Course (TBD) 3
      Major Course (TBD) 3
      WRT-101 Composition I † (CR)3

    Major Declaration required by 14th week of first semester!

    UNDERGRADUATE (BFA) PROGRAM INFORMATION

    Program & Credit Requirement Details (actual credits based on selected major)

    The following is a sample of credit requirements for BFA programs. Refer to the Curriculum/Program Guide for a desired major to view course outlines by semester. Foundation blocks are designed for intended majors. Required General Education and Open Elective credits vary by major (and may differ for students declaring Art Education; see Major/Art Ed Curriculum Charts).

    Additional ”Program & Credit Requirement Details” attached; includes ”approved course lists” and ”recommended courses (RC)” for any requirements with noted selections. Enrolled students should view Self-Service (My Progress/Plan & Schedule) for complete program information; see catalog for additional course details and descriptions.

    This plan is provided for use as a guide only and is based on full-time status with successful completion of credits outlined per semester. Degree Timelines and requirements may vary based on actual program, credits completed per semester and/or catalog year. Students are responsible for confirming completion of all requirements before graduating (use program/student resources to support degree progression). Minimum Cumulative GPA of 2.0 required.

    Program & Credit Requirement Details

    Degree RequirementsTotal credits requiredRequirement Details
      First Year Experience1.0SLP-007 is waived for eligible transfer students with 12.0 (or more) college.
      Foundations15.0 – 18.0Required for all majors. Successfully complete listed DFN Foundation courses for enrolled major; requirements may vary per major.
    COMMUNICATION DESIGN + STRATEGY, FILM & PHOTOGRAPHY – 15.0 CR.
    DFN-119 DIGITAL TECHNIQUES
    DFN-120 DESIGN COLOR & CONTEXT
    DFN-137 2D & 3D INTEGRATED DESIGN STUDIO
    DFN-138 4D DESIGN STUDIO **
    DFN-142 PERFORMATIVE SPACES

    ENTERTAINMENT ARTS (ANIMATION, CONCEPT DESIGN, GAME) & ILLUSTRATION – 15.0 CR.
    DFN-101 DRAWING I: RAPID CONCEPTS
    DFN-112 DRAWING II: STYLE & SKILL
    DFN-132 PROCESS & MAKING
    DFN-117 2D DESIGN PRINCIPLES
    DFN-119 DIGITAL TECHNIQUES

    FASHION ACCESSORIES DESIGN – 15.0 CR.
    DFN-103 DRAWING I: MATERIALS & METHODS
    DFN-104 DRAWING II: DRAW. AS STUDIO PRACTICE 
    DFN-118 3D DESIGN-FORMS & SPACE
    DFN-120 DESIGN COLOR & CONTEXT
    DFN-119 DIGITAL TECHNIQUES

    FASHION DESIGN – 15.0 CR.
    DFN-103 DRAWING I: MATERIALS & METHODS
    DFN-104 DRAWING II: DRAW. AS STUDIO PRACTICE 
    DFN-121 3D DESIGN: MATERIAL & METHODS
    DFN-120 DESIGN COLOR & CONTEXT
    DFN-119 DIGITAL TECHNIQUES

    INTERDISCIPLINARY ART & DESIGN – 15.0 CR.
    DFN FOUNDATION REQUIREMENT 1 (SELECT)
    DFN FOUNDATION REQUIREMENT 2 (SELECT)
    DFN FOUNDATION REQUIREMENT 3 (SELECT)
    DFN-116 3D TECHNIQUES
    DFN-119 DIGITAL TECHNIQUES

    INTERIOR DESIGN – 15.0 CR.
    DFN-101 DRAWING I: RAPID CONCEPTS
    DFN-112 DRAWING II: STYLE & SKILL 
    DFN-137 2D & 3D INTEGRATED DESIGN STUDIO
    DFN-120 DESIGN COLOR & CONTEXT
    DFN-138 4D DESIGN STUDIO

    PRODUCT DESIGN – 15.0 CR.
    DFN-101 DRAWING I: RAPID CONCEPTS
    DFN-112 DRAWING II: STYLE & SKILL 
    DFN-132 PROCESS & MAKING
    DFN-118 3D DESIGN-FORMS & SPACE
    DFN-119 DIGITAL TECHNIQUES

    STUDIO ART & CRAFT – 18.0 CR.
    DFN-103 DRAWING I: MATERIALS & METHODS
    DFN-104 DRAWING II: DRAW. AS STUDIO PRACTICE 
    DFN-118 3D DESIGN-FORMS & SPACE
    DFN-116 3D TECHNIQUES
    DFN-120 DESIGN COLOR & CONTEXT
    DFN-119 DIGITAL TECHNIQUES

    TRANSPORTATION DESIGN – 15.0 CR.
    DFN-101 DRAWING I: RAPID CONCEPTS
    DFN-112 DRAWING II: STYLE & SKILL 
    DFN-116 3D TECHNIQUES
    DFN-117 2D DESIGN PRINCIPLES
    DFN-118 3D DESIGN-FORMS & SPACE
      General Education33.0 – 42.0Liberal Arts courses required for all undergraduate majors; total credits may vary per program.
      General Education Undergrad CORE Requirements (CR)12.0Successfully complete WRT & AHV core general education prerequisites requirements (Composition pathways may vary based on completed assessments, test scores or transfer credits).
      General Education MAJOR Requirements (MR)3.0 – 9.0Successfully complete major specific Liberal Arts. Requirements vary per major.
      General Education Undergrad CORE Electives (CE)9.0Successfully complete core general education electives required for all UG majors (Science, Humanities, Art History & Visual Culture) as outlined on 4 year pathway/degree requirements:
    3.0 cr. Science: Successfully complete one course from the SCI subject; 200-400 level
    3.0 cr. Humanities Option: Successfully complete one of the following approved courses: LIT 239, LIT 203, DHS 201, DSS 215, DSS 240 or DPL 201
    3.0 cr. Art History & Visual Culture: Successfully complete course from AHV subject, 200-400 level
      General Education Electives12.0 – 15.0Successfully complete any non-required 200-400 level Liberal Arts course from subject codes: AHV, BUS, DHS, DPL, DSS, SCI, WRT, LIT
    (Total Gen.Ed Elective credits vary per major).
      Major §51.0 – 69.0Studio and/or lecture courses specific to major focus.
      Major Courses §69.0Successfully complete listed DTR courses in 4 year plan, by recommended sequence (based on prerequisites)
      Major Electives0.0Non-required major courses with subject code DTR are considered major electives; exceptions require approval.
      Open Electives0.0 – 12.0Successfully complete 100-400 level courses from any Undergraduate subject (Studio or Lecture).
    Total Program Credits120.0 – 122.0Total credits required 120 – 122 ‡
    Undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts program, GPA minimum requirement = 2.0

    Footnotes

    * ELS 101 Composition I for Multilingual Students 4.0 cr.
    † WRT 101/102 Self Placement Survey available.
    ‡ Based on SLP 007 (1.0 cr.) and ELS 101 (4.0 cr.)
    § Remaining Major course sequence impacts timeline to degree completion.
    ¶ Actual Foundation courses confirmed in advising meeting. All courses based on major selection in first semester.
    ** DFN 116 accepted as alternative for FILM majors
    †† Credits towards a future program are not official until a major has been declared and credits are confirmed by the Academic Advising & Registration Office upon review of an official degree audit. Actual credits and/or courses required are based on requirements outlined on curriculum charts for the designated major (students declaring Art Education may have fewer General Education credits due to the required credits for Art Ed, see Major/Art Ed curriculum charts).

  • Undergraduate Minors (2026-2027)

    UG – Liberal Arts Minor Requirements

    ART HISTORY

    CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS

    • AHV 203 GLOBAL ART HISTORY I
    • AHV 204 GLOBAL ART HISTORY II

    CHOOSE FOUR COURSES – 12 CREDITS

    • AHV 200 WESTERN ART HISTORY/VISUAL CULTURE
    • AHV 201 VISUAL NARRATION: AFRICA,
    • AHV 202 VISUAL NARRATION: ASIA,
    • AHV 203 GLOBAL ART HISTORY I**
    • AHV 204 GLOBAL ART HISTORY II**
    • AHV 206 HISTORY OF ILLUSTRATION
    • AHV 210 CONCEPTS & METHODS OF VISUAL CLTR
    • AHV 213 HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY
    • AHV 214 HISTORY OF ANIMATION & DIGITAL MEDIA
    • AHV 215 HISTORY OF FILM
    • AHV 216 HISTORY OF VIDEO GAMES
    • AHV 218 CONTEMPORARY ART HISTORY
    • AHV 219 GLOBAL SOUND CULTURES
    • AHV 221 HISTORY OF INTERIOR DESIGN
    • AHV 241 HISTORY OF MODERN DESIGN
    • AHV 247 HISTORY OF COMMUNICATION DESIGN I
    • AHV 248 HISTORY OF COMMUNICATION DESIGN II
    • AHV 251 HISTORY OF CRAFTS
    • AHV 252 HISTORY OF FASHION
    • AHV 357 ICONOGRAPHY AND MYTHOLOGY

    **If not taken as a “required” core course. Cannot apply courses more than once within minor; share restrictions apply to major.

    ART THERAPY

    • DSS 221 INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY – 3 CREDITS
    • DSS 310 ART THERAPY MODELS – 3 CREDITS
    • DSS 420 ART THERAPY EXPERIENTIALS – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE TWO COURSES – 6 CREDITS
      • DSS 324 PSYCHOLOGY OF CREATIVITY
      • DSS 337 PSYCHOPATHOLOGY
      • DSS 350 DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY

    CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP

    • BUS 213 BUSINESS PRACTICES* – 3 CREDITS (*Studio Art & Craft Majors take SAC 303, formerly BUS 303 Professional Practice for Artists)
    • CHOOSE FOUR OF THE FOLLOWING – 12 CREDITS
      • BUS 313 MARKETING
      • BUS 314 REAL WORLD FINANCE
      • BUS 315 ENTREPRENEURSHIP
      • BUS 304 LAW FOR CREATIVES

    CREATIVE WRITING

    • WRT 307 CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE FOUR COURSES FROM THE FOLLOWING – 12 CREDITS
      • WRT 303 POETRY WRITING WORKSHOP
      • WRT 312 FICTION WRITING WORKSHOP
      • WRT 314 CREATIVE NONFICTION WRITING WORKSHOP
      • WRT 316 THE GRAPHIC NOVEL WORKSHOP
      • WRT 317 SCIENCE FICTION AND HORROR WRITING WORKSHOP
      • WRT 318 SCRIPTWRITING WORKSHOP

    FILM STUDIES (for Liberal Arts)

    • REQUIRED FILM CORE – CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • AHV 215 HISTORY OF FILM
      • AHV 306 INTRO TO FILM
    • CHOOSE THREE OF THE FOLLOWING COURSES – 9 CREDITS
      • AHV 214 HISTORY OF ANIMATION & DIG MEDIA
      • AHV 215 HISTORY OF FILM**
      • AHV 301 IMAGINED WORLDS: UTOPIAS/DYSTOPIAS
      • AHV 306 INTRO TO FILM**
      • AHV 401 FILM NOIR AND BEYOND
      • AHV 402 FILM STUDIES: SCIENCE FICTION
      • AHV 406 DOC FILM: (RE)PRESENTING THE REAL
      • AHV 407 EXPERIMENTAL FILM
      • AHV 408 EAST ASIAN FILM
    • FILM STUDIES PRACTICAL – CHOOSE ONE STUDIO COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • FLM 103 FILM LANGUAGE & TECHNIQUES
      • FLM 106 INTRO TO FILMMAKING
      • FLM 278 DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKING I
      • FLM 288 EXPERIMENTAL FILMMAKING I

    **Can only use if not taken as the “core” minor course; cannot use the same course towards minor credits twice.

    SUSTAINABILITY

    • CHOOSE 5 COURSES – 15 CREDITS
      • SCI 345 Earth & Environmental Science
      • SCI 341 Science of Climate Change
      • DPL 350 Contemporary Moral Issues
      • DSS 338 American Consumer Culture
      • DPR 270 Sustainable Design Strategies for Designers
      • CLA 621 Zero Waste Design**
      • CLA 626 Climate Narratives**
      • CLA 631 Circular Economies & Design**

    **Graduate level course – permission required to register; must have 3.0 GPA; maximum of 6.0 credits total allowed towards UG degree credits.

    UG – STUDIO MINOR REQUIREMENTS

    COMMUNICATION DESIGN & STRATEGY (CDS)

    • CDS 201 COMMUNICATION DESIGN FOR NON-MAJORS – 3 CR
    • CDS 124 MOTION ESSENTIALS – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 263 USER INTERFACE DESIGN – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 211 INTRO TO COMM DESIGN I – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • CDS 251 TYPOGRAPHY III
      • CDS 264 USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN
      • CDS 224 MOTION NARRATIVES
      • CDS 212 DESIGN RESEARCH
      • CDS 376 MOBILE UI/UX
      • CDS 300/400 ELECTIVE

    CDS BRANDING

    • CDS 201 COMM DESIGN FOR NON-MAJORS – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 124 MOTION ESSENTIALS – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 211 DESIGN SEMIOTICS – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 311 BRAND STRATEGIES – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • CDS 312 CAMPAIGN STRATEGIES
      • CDS 300/400 BRAND ELECTIVE
        • Packaging Design, Integrated Brand Strategies or Social Media Strategies

    CDS MOTION GRAPHICS

    • CDS 151 TYPE I – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 124 MOTION ESSENTIALS – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 211 DESIGN SEMIOTICS – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 224 MOTION NARRATIVE – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • CDS 324 MOTION 3D
      • CDS 300/400 MOTION ELECTIVE
        • Motion Branding, Data Visualization or Design Futurism

    CDS – UI/UX DESIGN

    • CDS 201 COMMUNICATION DESIGN FOR NON-MAJORS – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 263 USER INTERFACE DESIGN – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 264 USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN – 3 CREDITS
    • CDS 365 IMMERSIVE SPACES – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • CDS 376 MOBILE UI/UX
      • CDS 378 EXPERIENCE DESIGN
      • CDS 374 DATA VISUALIZATION
      • CDS 300/400 ELECTIVE

    ENTERTAINMENT ARTS

    Minors in Entertainment Arts department (Animation, Game Design or Concept Design) can be customized in one EA emphasis area or across EA emphasis areas. Minor course list provided by EA department. Entertainment Art Department Chair approval required prior to declaring a minor.

    FASHION DESIGN

    FAD 101 FASHION FUNDAMENTALS: APPAREL – 3 CREDITS

    FAD 102 FASHION FUNDAMENTALS: ACCESSORIES – 3 CREDITS

    DSS 204 BUSINESS ANTHROPOLOGY – 3 CREDITS

    CHOOSE TWO COURSES – 6 CREDITS

    • FAD 301 TECH PACK DESIGN
    • FAD 305 FASHION TRENDS
    • FAD ELECTIVE

    FOOTWEAR DESIGN

    FAD 102 FASHION FUNDAMENTALS: ACCESSORIES- 3 CREDITS

    FAD 207 FASHION ILLUSTRATION – 3 CREDITS

    FAD 303 INTERMEDIATE SHOE MAKING – 3 CREDITS

    FAD 403 ADVANCED SHOE MAKING – 3 CREDITS

    FASHION ACCESSORIES ELECTIVE – 3 CREDITS

    FILM

    FLM 106 INTRO TO FILMMAKING – 3 CREDITS

    FLM 201 INTERMEDIATE FILMMAKING – 3 CREDITS

    FLM 211 FILM GRAPHICS & VFX 1 – 3 CREDITS

    FLM—- FILM ELECTIVE – 3 CREDITS

    FLM—- FILM ELECTIVE – 3 CREDITS

    ILLUSTRATION

    CHOOSE TWO COURSES – 6 CREDITS

    • DIL 147 FIGURE ILLUSTRATION I
    • DIL 158 PERSPECTIVE
    • DIL 159 PAINTING & IMAGE MAKING
    • DIL 246 ANATOMICAL FIGURE ILLUSTRATION
    • DIL 247 FIGURE ILLUSTRATION II
    • DIL 261 INTRO TO DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION

    DIL — ILLUSTRATION ELECTIVE- 3 CREDITS

    DIL — ILLUSTRATION ELECTIVE- 3 CREDITS

    DIL — ILLUSTRATION ELECTIVE- 3 CREDITS

    INTERIOR DESIGN

    • DIN 127 FRESHMAN INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO I – 3 CREDITS
    • DIN 220 AUTOCAD/ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING – 3 CREDITS
    • DIN 231 SOPHOMORE INTERIOR DESIGN STUDIO I – 3 CREDITS
    • DIN 251 DESIGN SOURCES AND MATERIALS – 3 CREDITS
    • DIN 351 LAWS, CODES AND STANDARDS – 3 CREDITS

    PHOTOGRAPHY

    • DPH 151 DARKROOM PHOTOGRAPHY – 3 CREDITS
    • DPH 155 DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHIC METHODS – 3 CREDITS
    • DPH 214 COLOR & OUTPUT I – 3 CREDITS
    • DPH — PHOTO ELECTIVES – 6 CREDITS

    PRODUCT DESIGN

    • DFN 101 DRAWING I: RAPID CONCEPTS – 3 CREDITS
    • DPR 125 INTRODUCTION TO PRODUCT DESIGN – 3 CREDITS
    • DPR 126 PRODUCT DESIGN I – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • DPR 161 3D MODELING & RENDERING I
      • DPR 213 VISUAL COMMUNICATION I
    • DPR 226 PRODUCT DESIGN III – 3 CREDITS

    PRODUCT DESIGN (for Animation, Game Design, EA/Concept Design & Illustration Majors)

    • DPR 125 INTRODUCTION TO PRODUCT DESIGN – 3 CREDITS
    • DPR 126 PRODUCT DESIGN I – 3 CREDITS
    • CHOOSE ONE COURSE – 3 CREDITS
      • DPR 161 3D MODELING & RENDERING I
      • DPR 213 VISUAL COMMUNICATION I
    • DPR 225 PRODUCT DESIGN II – 3 CREDITS
    • DPR 226 PRODUCT DESIGN III – 3 CREDITS

    PRODUCT DESIGN (for Transportation Majors)

    • DPR 126 PRODUCT DESIGN I – 3 CREDITS
    • DPR 225 PRODUCT DESIGN II – 3 CREDITS
    • DPR 226 PRODUCT DESIGN III – 3 CREDITS
    • DPR 361 3D MODELING & RENDERING II – 3 CREDITS
    • PRODUCT CHAIR TO DETERMINE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING – 3 CREDITS
      • DPR 205 INFORMATION DESIGN: 2D LAYOUT
      • DPR 214 VISUAL COMMUNICATION II
      • DPR 270 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN STRATEGIES

    STUDIO ART & CRAFT

    Studio Art & Craft minors are customized based on student interests and skills. Must See Studio Art & Craft Department Chair prior to declaring a minor to determine list of required courses.

    TRANSPORTATION DESIGN

    • DTR 201 VISUAL COMMUNICATION II – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 202 VISUAL COMMUNICATION III – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 232E SOPH TRANSPORTATION DES STUDIO (EXTERIOR) – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 233I SOPH TRANSPORTATION DES STUDIO (INTERIOR) – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 305 VEHICLE SYSTEMS & PACKAGING – 3 CREDITS

    TRANSPORTATION – AUTOMOTIVE CLAY MODELING

    • DTR 231 DIGITAL MODELING I – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 241 DIGITAL MODELING II – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 305 VEHICLE SYSTEMS & PACKAGING – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 366 CLAY MODELING I – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 367 CLAY MODELING II – 3 CREDITS

    TRANSPORTATION – AUTOMOTIVE DIGITAL MODELING

    • DTR 231 DIGITAL MODELING I – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 241 DIGITAL MODELING II – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 305 VEHICLE SYSTEMS & PACKAGING – 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 362 DIGITAL MODELING III- 3 CREDITS
    • DTR 461 DIGITAL MODELING IV – 3 CREDITS