Fine Art Studio Foundations

Effective: Fall 2024
Associate in Arts Program Map
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This program map from the 2024-2025 catalog year represents one possible pathway to complete this program. Your pathway may vary depending on your transfer plans and also previous college credit, including AP Test scores, concurrent enrollment courses and high school articulated courses.

I'm ready to get started. What do I do next?

  1. Review this program map to get an overview of the required courses
  2. Meet with a counselor to develop your customized student education plan www.chabotcollege.edu/counseling
  3. Use DegreeWorks, an online student education planning tool, to track your progress toward graduation www.chabotcollege.edu / admissions / degreeworks
Program Description
The Studio Foundations is an interdisciplinary degree designed to prepare students for a career in the Visual Arts. Students have the choice of taking a variety of classes in the digital arts, photography and fine arts, while still meeting the foundational requirements of a BFA. Students explore studio work that demonstrates individual expression, critical thinking, and an awareness of historical and contemporary art making.

What can I do with this major?

Sample Dream Future:

  • Professional artist
  • Illustrator
  • Layout artist
  • Graphic designer
  • Animator
  • 3D motion graphics for advertising
  • Art director
  • Art critic
  • Art educator
  • Art therapist
  • Gallery and Museum Curator
  • Gallery Assistant and Art Restorer.

CSU Bachelor's Degree transfer opportunities:

  • Studio Arts
  • Education
  • Art History
  • Photography
  • Digital Arts
  • Multimedia
  • Graphic Design
  • Arts Technology.

Learning and Career Pathway
  • Arts and Design

Icon Key

= Critical Course = Prerequisite for Other Courses = Prerequisite Required = Required for Major GE = General Education

Semester 1

16-17 units

ART 2A
Introduction to Drawing

3 units
This course provides direct experience in exploring basic drawing concepts, including the expressive use of contour, value, perspective and composition while using a variety of media. Assigned projects may include still life, landscape, portraiture and figure. Focus on perceptually based drawing, observational skills, technical abilities, and creative responses to materials and subject matter.
Course Details:
  • Transfers to CSU

    • ART 24
    3-D Foundations

    3 units
    Introduction to the concepts, applications, and historical references related to three-dimensional design and spatial composition, including the study of the elements and organizing principles of design as they apply to three-dimensional space and form. Development of a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations and use of appropriate materials for three-dimensional studio projects.
    Course Details:

    Art Studio Elective Course #1

    3 units
    Choose one course from list below
    See the full list: (Click here)

    Math Course for General Education: see a counselor to choose the appropriate course.

    3-4 units
    GE

    English 1- Critical Reading and Composition

    4 units
    GE

    Semester 2

    15-16 units

    ART 23
    2-D Foundations

    3 units
    Introduction to the concepts and applications of two-dimensional art from various cultures, historical periods, and aesthetic sensibilities. The course covers fundamental theoretical concepts and terminology common to all two-dimensional art activities, including the study and analysis of the basic principles of organization and elements of line, shape, value, texture, color, spatial illusion. Designed to develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, problem solving and written assignments. (May not receive credit if ART 10 has been completed)
    Course Details:

    Art History Elective

    3 units
    Choose one course from list below (ARTH 4 recommended)
    See the full list: (Click here)

    Art Studio Elective Course #2

    3 units
    Choose one course from the list below.
    See the full list: (Click here)

    General Education Course- see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern and general ed course option for this term.

    3 units
    GE

    General Education Course- see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern and general ed course option for this term.

    3-4 units
    GE

    Semester 3

    16 units

    ARTH 5
    Art History - Renaissance to Modern-Day

    3 units
    This course presents a chronological history of the West using iconic works of art and architecture that embody the conditions and values of the people who created them. We begin as Humanism cleaves the Early Renaissance away from a Medieval mindset, and conclude in recent times, as art is radically redefined by modern and contemporary artists to evocatively reflect our unpredictable, challenging times. This course is especially appropriate for visual learners.
    Course Details:
  • Transfers to CSU

    • Art Studio Elective Course #3

    3 units
    Choose one course from the list below
    See the full list: (Click here)

    Art Studio Elective Course #4

    3 units
    Choose one course from the list below
    See the full list: (Click here)

    General Education Course- see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern and general ed course option for this term.

    4 units
    GE

    General Education Course- see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern and general ed course option for this term.

    3 units
    GE

    Semester 4

    15.5 units

    ART 45
    Artist Portfolio and Self-Promotion

    1.5 units
    Development of an artist's/ designer's portfolio and strategies for self-promotion in the art and design industries. Students will work to revise existing projects, create advanced projects and select and organize projects for promotion. Includes use of effective techniques of presentation. Includes creation and revision of resume, business card, and template based website.
    Course Details:

      Art Studio Elective Course #5

      3 units
      Choose one course from the list below.
      See the full list: (Click here)

      Art Studio Elective Course #6

      3 units
      Choose one course from the list below
      See the full list: (Click here)

      General Education Course- see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern and general ed course option for this term.

      3 units
      GE

      General Education Course- see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern and general ed course option for this term.

      4 units
      GE

      General Education Course- see a counselor to choose the appropriate general education pattern and general ed course option for this term. PE course recommended

      1 unit
      GE

      Art Studio Electives (Choose any 6 courses for a total of 18 units from the list below)

      ART 2B
      Drawing and Composition

      3 units
      Development of knowledge and skills introduced in Art 2A, emphasizing exploration of artistic concepts, styles, and creative expression related to intermediate-level drawing, focusing on complex subject matter and concepts using a variety of drawing mediums, techniques, and methodologies. Students in this course will build on fundamental drawing skills to develop personalized approaches to content and materials in exercises covering multiple historical and contemporary approaches to drawing.
      Course Details:
      1. Prerequisite: ART 2A
    1. Transfers to CSU

      2. ART 3A
      Figure and Composition I

      3 units
      Introduction to drawing the human figure from observation using a wide variety of drawing media and techniques. Topics include an introduction to human anatomy and the historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts. Students in this course will learn both descriptive and expressive approaches to drawing the figure. Open to any student, no drawing experience required.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: ART 2A
    2. Transfers to CSU

      3. ART 3B
      Figure and Composition II

      3 units
      Continued development of knowledge and skills introduced in Figure and Composition I. Emphasis on color and conceptual themes in the drawing of the human form. Students will practice and create compositions using a live model.
      Course Details:
      1. Prerequisite: ART 3A

      ART 7A
      Introduction to Watercolor Painting

      3 units
      The student will learn materials, methods, techniques and watch demonstrations of transparent watercolor painting, including its effects and possibilities. The student will work with the instructor to maximize watercolor painting skills during class and at home.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: ART 2A
    3. Transfers to CSU

      4. ART 7B
      Intermediate Watercolor Painting

      3 units
      Continued development of knowledge and techniques introduced in Beginning Watercolor Painting. Emphasis on intermediate watercolor techniques that that advance the student’s skills and portfolio of paintings. Students will begin to create work based on their individual style.
      Course Details:
      1. Prerequisite: ART 7A

      ART 12A
      Beginning Oil Painting

      3 units
      Introduction to principles, elements, and practices of oil painting. Focus on exploration of painting materials, perceptual skills and color theory, paint mixing and technique, as well as creative responses to materials and subject matter.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: ART 2A
    4. Transfers to CSU

      5. ART 12B
      Intermediate Oil Painting

      3 units
      Intermediate projects in oil painting focusing on more complex and varied subject matter, media and concepts. Special emphasis is placed on the development of creative, individualized approaches to materials and content.
      Course Details:
      1. Prerequisite: ART 12A

      ART 13A
      Acrylic Painting - Beginning I

      3 units
      Introduction to principles, elements, and practices of acrylic painting. Focus on exploration of painting materials, perceptual skills and color theory, paint mixing and technique, as well as creative responses to materials and subject matter.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: ART 2A
    5. Transfers to CSU

      6. ART 13B
      Acrylic Painting - Beginning II

      3 units
      Projects in acrylic painting focusing on more complex and varied subject matter, media and concepts. Special emphasis is placed on the development of creative, individualized approaches to materials and content.
      Course Details:
      1. Prerequisite: ART 13A

      ART 16A
      Introduction to Ceramics I

      3 units
      Instruction in the fundamental techniques of wheel-thrown and hand-constructed clay forms. Survey of clay and glaze materials and reaction to fire will be included. Methods of decorating using glazes will be introduced. Influence of Eastern and Western contemporary and historical works and the students' creations. Formulate personal creative process, including inspiration, experimentation, and evaluation. Designed for art majors as well as non-majors.
      Course Details:
    6. Transfers to CSU

      7. ART 16B
      Introduction to Ceramics II

      3 units
      Further development of the technical skills of wheel thrown and hand constructed clay forms. Exploration of surface decoration, using various glazing techniques and methods of slip decoration is continued. Designed for art majors as well as non-majors
      Course Details:
      1. Prerequisite: ART 16A

      ART 17A
      Beginning Sculpture 1

      3 units
      Construction methods in clay through design of three-dimensional and relief sculptures. Includes an introduction to ceramic art history and fundamentals of ceramic glaze and firing technology. Elements and principles of three-dimensional design are emphasized in oral and written critiques. This course is designed for art majors as well as general education students.
      Course Details:

      ART 18B
      Wood and Stone Sculpture II

      3 units
      An intermediate course in the Design and carving of more advanced 3-dimensional sculptures, using subtractive methods in wood and stone. Includes care and maintenance of pneumatic (air power) technology. Elements and principles of three-dimensional design are emphasized in oral and written critiques.
      Course Details:
      1. Prerequisite: ART 18A

      ART 20
      All Media Sculpture

      3 units
      Concentrated individual studies in sculpture, designed to provide opportunity for continued investigation in the possibilities of a variety of sculptural media for the purpose of creating individual style and personal expression.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: ART 17A
    7. Transfers to CSU

      8. ART 25
      Color Theory

      3 units
      A study of the principles, theories, and applications of additive and subtractive color in two dimensions. Topics will include major historical and contemporary color systems, production of projects in applied color, and the elements of design as they apply to color.
      Course Details:
    8. Transfers to CSU

      9. ART 61
      Illustration

      3 units
      Creation and execution of conceptual ideas in illustration. Includes a variety of mediums and contemporary application styles. Emphasis on skills in traditional draftsmanship, craftsmanship and presentation.
      Course Details:

      DIGM 1
      Introduction to Digital Art

      3 units
      Introduction to fundamental concepts, practices, and theories of digital art production. Topics include integration of traditional design, color, and compositional principles with contemporary digital tools.
      Course Details:

      DIGM 2
      Introduction to Graphic Design

      3 units
      Introduction to the essential visual elements of graphic design. Exploration of the principles, concepts, and protocols used for effective visual communication. Cultivation of the designer’s creative process and problem-solving skills. Emphasis on strong conceptual development and solid craftsmanship through design execution. Projects explore creative development of graphic design ideas from start to finish.
      Course Details:

      DIGM 4A
      Digital Illustration

      3 units
      Introduction to the principles of illustration using digital tools. Through lectures, demos and assignments students are exposed to and practice digital illustration skills for design, editorial, and animation. Emphasis is placed on the use of vector-based tools for artistic drawing and graphic design. Students explore the relationship of digital illustration with the field of Graphic Design, Animation and Fine Art.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: ART 2A

      DIGM 5
      Typography

      3 units
      Typography explores the art, process, and technical approach to ideating and producing successful typography for visual communication and design. Students use vector based tools to create, modify, place and design compositions using typography as the main design element. Topics include the anatomy, classification, legibility, meaning, readability, history, and historical changes of typography.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: DIGM 2

      DIGM 10A
      Introduction to Animation

      3 units
      The history and evolution of technical aspects of animation are examined. Students explore animation principles using analog media, including, phonotropes, stop motion animation, claymation and flip books. Digital aspects of animation are also explored to create short mini animated sequences.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: DIGM 11

      FILM 15
      Introduction to Digital Filmmaking

      3 units
      Introduction to digital filmmaking as an artistic medium through lectures, screenings, demonstrations, and hands-on practicum. Critical analysis and appreciation of production elements and development of skills in pre-production planning, digital cinematography, direction of actors, sound design, art direction, and post-production.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: FILM 14

      PHOT 1A
      Digital Photography I

      3 units
      Introduction to the processes, principles, and tools of digital photography. Course provides an overview of digital camera functions for automatic and manual exposure, image creation and capture, file management, and image editing. Students may use any appropriate digital camera including; DSLR, mirrorless, point & shoot or smartphone. Topics include the development of technical and aesthetic skills, elements of design and composition, camera technology, materials and equipment, and contemporary trends in digital photography. May not receive credit if PHOT 50 has been completed successfully.
      Course Details:
    9. Transfers to CSU

      10. PHOT 2A
      Black and White Darkroom Photography

      3 units
      Introduction to the processes, principles, and tools of black and white darkroom photography. Course provides an overview of 35mm cameras and materials for exposure and development of black and white film. Traditional darkroom techniques will be used for the exploration and refinement of gelatin silver processes for printing and toning photographs. Topics include the development of technical and aesthetic skills, elements of design and composition, film cameras, materials and equipment, and contemporary trends in film photography. May not receive credit if PHOT 60 has been completed successfully.
      Course Details:
    10. Transfers to CSU

      11. PHOT 3A
      Introduction to Studio Lighting

      3 units
      Introduction to basic studio lighting skills using electronic flash, static, and strobe applications. Course will familiarize students with lighting techniques for portraiture, product and still-life photography, in a studio setting with specialized equipment and digital cameras. Digital production techniques and processes including basics of shooting, editing and output for digital photographs. Professional setups and standard practices, as well as alternative lighting solutions will be covered. May not receive credit if PHOT 64A has been completed successfully.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: PHOT 1A
        2. or
      2. Strongly Recommended: PHOT 50

      PHOT 4A
      Color Theory for Photographers

      3 units
      This course will cover the basics of color science, color theory, language of color, color primaries and color relationships, applied using digital photography techniques. Students will study the principles, theories and applications of additive and subtractive color in photography. These concepts will be framed in a way that is relevant for photographers in composition, control of mood, emotional content, and image processing. Topics will include major historical and contemporary color systems, production of projects using applied color and the elements of color and design as they apply to photography. May not receive credit if PHOT 61 has been completed successfully.
      Course Details:
      1. Strongly Recommended: PHOT 1A
        2. or
      2. Strongly Recommended: PHOT 50
    11. Transfers to CSU

      12. PHOT 6A
      Photoshop

      3 units
      Introduction to the use of Adobe Photoshop for retouching, editing, and compositing digital images. Students take their original photography and artistically adjust contrast, exposure and color balance to create enhanced compositions. Students also take a number of photos and composite the images into an artistically balanced and well-designed composition.

      Art History Elective (Choose 1 course from the list below)

      ARTH 4
      Art History-Ancient to Gothic

      3 units
      This course presents a chronological history of the West using iconic artworks that embody the conditions and values of the people who created them. We begin in prehistory, when Cro-Magnons painted the walls of their caves, and end in the late Medieval period, when artists sought ways to give tangible form to God and the heavens. Along the way, we cover visual masterworks by ancient Arabs and Persians of Mesopotamia, northeast Africans and Nilotic peoples in Egypt, and Greeks and Romans in the Mediterranean region. This course is especially appropriate for visual learners. (Formerly ART 4; may not receive credit if ART 4 has been completed.)
      Course Details:
    12. Transfers to CSU

      13. ARTH 6
      Art History - Twentieth- and Twenty-First Century Art

      3 units
      This course presents a chronological history of the 20th- and 21st centuries in the West (and at times, beyond), using iconic artworks that embody the conditions and values of the people who created them. We examine artworks created in a wide variety of media and targeting a broad range of subjects. Our focus is on major movements and influential ideas of this period, which—more than any other art historical period—were shaped by women artists, indigenous artists, disasporic artists, and artists of color. This course is especially appropriate for visual learners.
      Course Details:

      ARTH 8
      Art History - A Global Perspective

      3 units
      This course offers an overview of the rich visual cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Our focus is on perspectives, philosophies, and aesthetics developed before and/or outside the European tradition, thereby providing students visual and intellectual lessons from civilizations with distinctive and exceptional non-white worldviews. Each unit of study addresses a non-Western civilization’s visual cultures and the aesthetics associated with that civilization’s periods/kingdoms, religions, and favored art types. This course is especially appropriate for visual learners.
      Course Details:
      Total Units: 62.5-64.5 units
      This program map is not a guarantee of course availability or financial aid applicability.