Academics – String Theory School of Design

Creative Arts & Design

CUL130S
Essentials of Pastry and Baking 1 (3 semester credits)
This introductory studio course immerses students in the foundational techniques of the pastry kitchen, including mixing methods, dough and batter science, lamination, and classic pastry components. Students practice measuring and baking fundamentals while building an understanding of how ingredient choices affect flavor, texture, and presentation.

CUL131S
Essentials of Pastry and Baking 2 (3 semester credits)
Building on Essentials of Pastry and Baking 1, this second studio course advances students’ skills in laminated doughs, custards, plated desserts, and decorative technique. Students explore the design principles of dessert composition, including balance, color, and texture, while working under the timed, production-based conditions of a professional pastry kitchen.

Dan130S
Classical Ballet 1 (3 semester credits)
In this first studio course founded on the Vagonova method, students practice the fundamentals of ballet, building practical awareness of its physicality, artistry, and principles of alignment. Students also examine the cultural and historical origins of ballet through works of choreography that define the tradition.

Dan131S
Classical Ballet 2 (3 semester credits)
In this second studio course founded on the Vagonova method, students gain fluency with the fundamentals of ballet, growing skills in physicality, artistry, and principles of alignment. Students also continue their study of the cultural and historical origins of ballet through new works of choreography that define the tradition.

Dan132S
Contemporary Dance 1 (3 semester credits)
In this first studio course grounded in contemporary dance methods, students practice the fundamentals of contemporary technique, building practical awareness of weight, breath, and release as tools of physical expression. Students also examine the cultural and historical origins of contemporary dance through the work of choreographers who have shaped the field.

Dan133S
Contemporary Dance 2 (3 semester credits)
In this second studio course grounded in contemporary dance methods, students gain fluency with the fundamentals of contemporary technique, growing skills in weight, breath, and release as tools of physical expression. Students also continue their study of the cultural and historical origins of contemporary dance through new works of choreography that define the field.

Dan136S
Ballet Company and Repertory 1 (1 semester credit)
This performance-based course places students within a company structure to rehearse and stage works from the classical and neoclassical ballet repertory. Students refine technique through the demands of ensemble performance, developing musicality, spatial awareness, and the discipline required of a professional company member.

Dan137S
Ballet Company and Repertory 2 (1 semester credit)
Building on Ballet Company and Repertory 1, students continue to rehearse and perform works from the ballet repertory with increased artistic and technical responsibility, taking on more complex roles within the company and deepening their capacity for partnering and performance-ready execution.

Dan138S
Contemporary Dance Company and Repertory 1 (1 semester credit)
This performance-based course places students within a company structure to rehearse and stage works from the contemporary dance repertory. Students build ensemble skills including musicality, spatial awareness, and collaborative composition while preparing repertory for public performance.

Dan139S
Contemporary Dance Company and Repertory 2 (1 semester credit)
Building on Contemporary Dance Company and Repertory 1, students continue to rehearse and perform works from the contemporary repertory with increased artistic and technical responsibility, taking on more complex choreographic roles within the company.

Des105Q, Des106Q, DesI07Q
Ideation Workshop (.5 credits per quarter)
Each quarter of the first year, students engage in a curated set of experiences, or Ideation Stations, that prioritize authentic application of learning, dynamic creative connections with professionals in innovation fields, and building strong dispositions in growth and entrepreneurial mindset, perseverance, and work ethic. This flexible course also includes opportunities for outrageous support and access to academic tutoring, library research, accessibility services, college and career counseling, and creative play.

Des120Q
Design Thinking (2 quarter credits)
Design thinking is an approach to finding and engaging complex challenges, often called ‘wicked problems’, with spatial thinking and through empathetic practices. Wicked problems are questions that have no clear answer yet require a response. Design thinking mindsets are robust practices in both creative and business domains to address wicked problems. A foundational course to the IDeATE program, this course will introduce design thinking strategies and tactics through a survey of case study examples and practical applications.

Des121Q
Materials & Tools (2 quarter credits)
The intertwined history of materials and tools can be traced through every epoch’s cultural artifacts. This course will follow the trajectory of human making and productive practices as western civilization evolved from local, craft-based societies toward global centers of industrial production. Each student will develop a personal understanding and define a “making” philosophy to acknowledge that tools are not neutral. This identity will evolve through the program and will ground student practices. Texts include The Craftsman by R. Sennett, Shop Class as Soul Craft by M. Crawford, and Why We Make Things and Why it Matters by R. Korn.

Des122Q
Shops & Studios: Design Practices (2 quarter credits)
How do design practitioners work? Where do they work? What does this look like? Students in this course visit local design practices to observe and investigate professional design disciplines, including architecture, graphic design, fashion, and industrial/product design. Using a case study format, these are direct encounters with professionals to inform student understandings of career opportunities. Through these first person encounters students will formulate personal frameworks of similarities and differences to envision their own design practices.

Des130Q
Visualization I (3 quarter credits)
Visual communication is a practice of seeing through drawing. This course introduces visual representation and its thematic possibilities through both an analysis of antecedents and the production of new works. These complementary studies serve to establish conceptual understanding of representation issues and to develop technical drawing abilities that facilitate designer visualization. Coursework inquiry explores the implications of these representational practices including the course’s fundamental question: what are the relationships between the projector, the projected, and the projection?

Des131S*
Introduction to Art & Design (3 semester credits)*
Design practices communicate through practices of drawing and modeling. A vast array of methods and techniques, from sketching to 3d printing, rely upon looking, seeing, spatial acuity, and spatial thinking. Acquiring these skills emerges through practice. This course begins that practice. Students will build upon innate spatial and design literacies in order to access more sophisticated competencies in visual communication. These competencies range from quick sketches to intricate renderings.

Des132S
3D Digital Design and Animation 1 (3 semester credits)
This introductory studio course gives students hands-on experience with 3D modeling, texturing, and animation software used across industry-standard design pipelines. Students build foundational digital literacy in spatial modeling and motion while exploring how animated and rendered forms communicate ideas across product design, entertainment, and visualization fields.

Des133S
3D Digital Design and Animation 2 (3 semester credits)
Building on 3D Digital Design and Animation 1, students advance their modeling, rigging, and animation techniques to produce more complex sequences and renders. Emphasis is placed on storytelling through motion, lighting, and camera work, preparing students to apply 3D digital tools to independent creative projects.

Des134S
Fine Arts Design Studio (3 semester credits)
This open studio course allows students to pursue an independent body of work within a chosen fine arts medium, under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Students develop a personal visual language through sustained practice, critique, and revision, culminating in a cohesive portfolio of work.

Des145Q*
Introduction to Art & Design (4.5 quarter credits)*
Design practices communicate through practices of drawing and modeling. A vast array of methods and techniques, from sketching to 3d printing, rely upon looking, seeing, spatial acuity, and spatial thinking. Acquiring these skills emerges through practice. This course begins that practice. Students will build upon innate spatial and design literacies in order to access more sophisticated competencies in visual communication. These competencies range from quick sketches to intricate renderings.

Des205Q, Des206Q, Des207Q
Ideation Workshop (.5 quarter credits per quarter)
Each quarter of the second year, students engage in an upleveled curated set of experiences, or Ideation Stations, that prioritize authentic application of learning, dynamic creative connections with professionals in innovation fields, and building strong dispositions in growth and entrepreneurial mindset, perseverance, and work ethic. This flexible course also includes opportunities for outrageous support and access to academic tutoring, library research, accessibility services, college and career counseling, and creative play.

Des230Q
Visualization II (3 quarter credits)
This course continues the inquiry into visual representation, thematic possibilities, the analysis of antecedents, and the production of new works. Advanced drawing projection techniques, systems and methods complement explorations in visual narrative and storytelling. Deep investigations into digital mediums examine their potentials, capacities, applications, limitations, and repercussions. At the center of the questions remains the course’s fundamental question: what is the relationship between the projector, the projected, and the projection?

Des232S
Fine Arts Capstone Studio (3 semester credits)
This capstone course guides fine arts students through the early stages of an independent studio project, from concept development through initial execution. Working with a faculty advisor, students research contextual influences, refine a personal visual language, and produce a body of preparatory work toward a culminating exhibition.

Des260Q
Design Studio: Student Choice of Focus (6 quarter credits)
This course is a precursor to the Capstone Studio. Students select a design studio focus grounded in the professional practices of a respective discipline and advised by a faculty team experienced in the discipline. Students are challenged to acquire the basic working methodologies, terminologies, and communication methods (incorporating representation and fabrication) while considering ethical and cultural implications. Options vary and may include: Architecture, Built Environment, Culinary Arts, Fashion, Graphic Design, Industrial / Product, Merchandising, Photo / Video, Textiles, and Web Design.

Des261Q
Capstone Studio: Student Choice of Focus (6 quarter credits)
The capstone studio is the culminating course in the Design/Art applied practices sequence. Students demonstrate mastery of program content through a complex design problem: a problem finding definition, development of contextual influences, a design response relative to these influences, and a reflection on the implications of this proposition. Each student secures an independent advisor and individually develops their project with this advisor. Options vary and may include: Architecture, Built Environment, Culinary Arts, Fashion, Graphic Design, Industrial / Product, Merchandising, Photo / Video, Textiles, and Web Design.

Lyc105Q, Lyc106Q, LycI07Q
Lyceum (.5 credits per quarter)
As a culminating experience at the end of each quarter, students engage in an intensive, project-based experience, diving deep into the design process to innovate solutions to real world wicked problems. The Lyceum course is a vehicle for collaboration, storytelling, prototyping, and sharing in preparation for Design Day adjudications, contests, and immersive experiences.

Lyc205Q, Lyc206Q, Lyc207Q
Lyceum (.5 credits per quarter)
As a culminating experience at the end of each quarter, students engage in an intensive, project-based experience, diving deep into the design process to innovate solutions to real world wicked problems. The Lyceum course is a vehicle for collaboration, storytelling, prototyping, and sharing in preparation for Design Day adjudications, contests, and immersive experiences.

Mus130S
Introduction to Music (3 semester credits)*
This course introduces the fundamental elements of music, including rhythm, melody, harmony, form, and timbre, through active listening, analysis, and discussion. Students explore music across historical periods, genres, and cultures, building a vocabulary for describing and evaluating musical works.

Mus131S
Applied Music Technique: Voice (3 semester credits)
This applied studio course develops students’ vocal technique through individualized instruction in breath support, tone production, diction, and interpretation. Students build a varied performance repertoire and receive regular feedback through studio class and jury performance, progressing at a pace suited to their individual skill level.

Mus132S
Applied Music Technique: Instrumental (3 semester credits)
This applied studio course develops students’ technique on their primary instrument through individualized instruction in tone production, technique, and interpretation. Students build a varied performance repertoire and receive regular feedback through studio class and jury performance, progressing at a pace suited to their individual skill level.

Mus133S
Music Theory I (3 semester credits)
This course introduces the building blocks of Western tonal music, including notation, scales, intervals, triads, and basic voice leading. Students develop written harmonic analysis skills alongside foundational aural skills and sight-singing.

Mus135S
Concert Choir Ensemble (1 semester credit)
Concert Choir Ensemble is a performance-based choral ensemble that rehearses and performs a varied repertoire of choral literature each semester. Students develop vocal blend, sight-reading, and ensemble musicianship while preparing for public performances.

Mus136S
Symphony Orchestra Ensemble (1 semester credit)
Symphony Orchestra Ensemble is a performance-based instrumental ensemble that rehearses and performs orchestral literature spanning multiple periods and styles. Students develop ensemble musicianship, intonation, and interpretive skills while preparing for public performances.

Mus137S
Jazz Band Ensemble (1 semester credit)
Jazz Band Ensemble is a performance-based instrumental ensemble that rehearses and performs jazz repertoire, including big band and combo literature. Students develop improvisation, swing feel, and ensemble listening skills while preparing for public performances.

The130S
Introduction to Theatre (3 semester credits)
This course surveys the art and craft of theatre, including the roles of the playwright, director, designer, and actor in bringing a production to life. Through readings, discussion, and attendance at live performance, students examine dramatic structure, theatrical genres, and theatre’s role across cultures and historical periods.

The131S
Acting 1 (3 semester credits)
This introductory studio course develops foundational acting technique through improvisation, scene study, and character analysis. Students build skills in physical and vocal expression, listening, and ensemble collaboration while developing the craft needed to bring a scripted character to life.

Entrepreneurship Courses

Bus230Q (3 quarter credits)
Business Building
What are the dos and don’ts of starting new ventures? This course proceeds from product ideation, to pitch formation, to business planning, to funding acquisition, to business launching and into business management. The objective of this course is to provide students with all of the basic knowledge each will need to launch a new venture.

Bus245Q*
Business Ethics (4.5 quarter credits)*
Organizations have learned that the costs of unethical actions can be high. Consequences include legal ramifications, adverse brand images and tarnished corporate reputations. This course addresses business ethics through frameworks of moral dilemma in the context of business practice. Eminent philosophers and notable leaders of business start-ups are studied to establish foundations of grounded ethics while students examine how organizations can establish and build ethical cultures.

Ent130Q
Entrepreneurial Teams (3 quarter credits)
Organizations are multi-faceted. One of the biggest reasons why startups fail is due to ineffective communication within a team or, simply, the wrong team. Teams are composed of individuals fulfilling different roles in close collaboration. To be successful, business leaders must create strong teams and understand their role within that team composition. In this course, students learn personal strengths, weaknesses, and preferences as they participate on a sequence of team projects with rotating team compositions.

Ent131Q
Fundamentals of New Ventures (3 quarter credits)
This course explores the fundamentals of startup culture and essential practices that make up the entrepreneurial mindset. This includes, but is not limited to, concepts of fast failure, risk taking, flexibility, creative problem solving, the innovation ecosystem and ideation. Major frameworks include understanding what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur and how to improve soft skills applicable to startup culture and effective innovation.

Ent145Q*
Contemporary Social Problems / Social Entrepreneurship (4.5 quarter credits)*
What are contemporary cultures’ challenges? How might empathy better ground innovations to address those challenges? Students explore, examine, and analyze case studies of complex contemporary social problems as a basis for creating and sustaining new ventures with social value. Students conduct original research, build a deep context for a specific social topic of interest, and implement that knowledge to develop a solution plan for effective deployment.

Ent220Q
Brand Strategy (2 quarter credits)
You have a product, how do you build the brand? This course examines each phase of a brand making strategy, including marketing campaigns, brand identity, and brand pitches to both investors and consumers. Students will develop a hypothetical brand, from idea to marketing campaign, with routine critiques from field practitioners.

Ent221Q
Fail Forward (2 quarter credits)
Most venture backed start-ups fail. Creating a safe environment to fail fast, early, and often, then repeat is a key practice for an agile methodology of entrepreneurship. Fail Forward is a writing intensive course. Students examine case studies of business failures to analyze statistics of failure and determine missed opportunities for success. This course encourages students to “fail fast”, learn quickly, identify overlooked risks, determine the next effort, mitigate conflicts, and pivot to try again.

Ent230Q
Startup School (3 quarter credits)
This course explores the necessary steps to develop, validate, and scale a unique product, service, or initiative. It begins with ideation, pitching an idea, and prioritizing time, then proceeds into setting pathway goals and providing deliverables. Students will experience the process of realizing a novel idea and/or approaches to defining and solving a societal or market need.

HOS130S
Food and Beverage Hospitality Management 1 (3 semester credits)
This course introduces the fundamentals of food and beverage service within the hospitality industry, including front- and back-of-house operations, service standards, menu design, and cost control. Students examine how hospitality businesses create guest experiences and build foundational knowledge of the industry’s operational and managerial practices.

HOS131S
Food and Beverage Hospitality Management 2 (3 semester credits)
Building on Food and Beverage Hospitality Management 1, this course explores advanced topics in hospitality operations, including staffing and training, event and beverage program management, marketing, and regulatory compliance. Students apply management principles to real-world hospitality scenarios.

Technology Courses

Tech130Q
Tech Stack – Introduction to Technologies and Applications (3 quarter credits)
Introduction to Technologies and Applications will introduce students to the most essential and useful technologies and applications on the market. Its content spans from web technologies such as the Adobe Creative Cloud to applications supporting design production such as the Autodesk suite. The course prepares and equips students with critical knowledge of current market offerings, their applications, and how to implement appropriate technologies in the students’ problem solving pursuits.

Tech131Q
Fabrication I / Analog (3 quarter credits)
Fabrication has two parts: experimental research and applied research. This course, the first of two in fabrication, specifically works through analog methods. A series of inquiries explore latent material properties, potential transformations and their capacity to lead – or mislead – our material understanding. Building on this research, artifacts are then made toward specific thematic and functional purposes. The artifacts investigate the technical, aesthetic and situational performances of materials, their combined purposes, and their cumulative effects. Three themes guide the research and its subsequent application: finish, form and fit.

Tech132Q
Fabrication II / Hybrid (3 quarter credits)
Fabrication has two parts: experimental research and applied research. This course, the second of two in fabrication, builds upon analog understandings to investigate digital and hybrid methods of making. Specific inquiries explore relationships between material and tools; prototyping; the benefits and limitations of analog, digital, and hybrid methods of production; material sciences; and material behaviors. Through these inquiries artifacts are made toward specific thematic and functional purposes which investigate technical, aesthetic and situational performances of materials, their combined purposes, and their cumulative effects.

Tech220Q
Social Media Studio – (2 quarter credits)
How do the world’s most innovative companies use social media to engage with customers, brand their business, and network with others. Designing and prototyping customer experiences for mobile devices will help ensure that user experiences are seamless on any device. Students will leverage content from Jason McDonald’s Social Media Marketing Workbook 2021 to develop omnichannel journeys ranging from brick and mortar to mobile device experiences.

Core Humanities

Econ245Q*
MicroEconomics (4.5 quarter credits)*
Focusing on the impact of economics on Design, Technology, and Entrepreneurship initiatives, students study basic economic principles with particular emphasis upon microeconomic theory and problems. Among topics considered are the economics of the design shop and/or technology start up firm, the price system, resource allocation, the distribution of income, domestic economic problems, international trade, economic development, and comparative economic systems. Specific projects will emphasize the role of innovation in the microeconomic landscape.

Eng130S
Introduction to Creative Writing (3 semester credits)
This course introduces students to the craft of creative writing across multiple genres, including poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Through generative exercises, workshop critique, and revision, students build a foundational toolkit of literary techniques while developing their own creative voice.

Eng131S
Introduction to Fiction Writing (3 semester credits)
This course focuses on the craft elements of short fiction, including character, plot, point of view, setting, and dialogue. Students read published short stories as models for craft and produce original fiction through a workshop process of drafting, peer critique, and revision.

Eng132S
English Composition: Rhetoric, Argument, and Nonfiction Writing (3 semester credits)
This course develops students’ skills in argumentative and analytical writing through the study of rhetorical strategies used across nonfiction genres. Students practice building and supporting a clear thesis, engaging counterarguments, and synthesizing outside sources into original, well-organized prose.

Eng133S
English Composition: Style, Voice, and Advanced Composition (3 semester credits)
Building on foundational composition skills, this course focuses on refining sentence-level style, voice, and structure in advanced expository and persuasive writing. Students study models of accomplished prose and revise their own writing for clarity, precision, and rhetorical effect.

Eng134S
Introduction to Literature: Why are we here? (3 semester credits)
This course explores questions of meaning, purpose, and existence through close reading of literary works spanning multiple genres and time periods. Students develop skills in literary analysis and interpretation while engaging in discussion and writing that connects the questions raised by literature to their own lives.

Eng135S
Introduction to Literature: Science Fiction (3 semester credits)
This course examines science fiction as a literary genre that uses speculative and technological premises to interrogate contemporary social, ethical, and philosophical questions. Students read and analyze short stories and novels from the genre’s history, developing literary analysis skills while considering science fiction’s relationship to innovation and design.

Eng136S
English Composition (3 semester credits)*
Students will analyze, synthesize, evaluate, summarize, paraphrase, and cite written, spoken, and visual texts created by thought leaders in innovative design fields. They will leverage this systematic study to write effective expository prose and argumentation which stresses development and support of a clear thesis. This course helps students synthesize what they hear, read, and see, and gives them the tools to effectively communicate their resonance with and responses to the expertise and ideas they encounter. This prepares them for future academic and professional written communication.

Eng145Q*
Illuminate: English Composition and Visual Storytelling (4.5 quarter credits)*
Students will analyze, synthesize, evaluate, summarize, paraphrase, and cite written, spoken, and visual texts created by thought leaders in innovative design fields. They will leverage this systematic study to write effective expository prose and argumentation which stresses development and support of a clear thesis. This course helps students synthesize what they hear, read, and see, and gives them the tools to effectively communicate their resonance with and responses to the expertise and ideas they encounter. This prepares them for future academic and professional written communication. This course uses Nancy Duarte’s book Illuminate as an anchor text on visual storytelling. The book’s premise connects writing to design and creativity. It helps writers create a strong connection with audiences and leads to purposeful action.

Eng230S*
Public Speaking and Storytelling (3 semester credits)*
Speaking with clarity, confidence, and precision is an essential skill to advance innovative ideas. This course helps students build confidence in preparing and delivering informative and persuasive speeches in service of compelling audiences and illuminating ideas. Topics include selection of content, audience analysis, research, organization, and use of voice and body in speech delivery.

Eng245Q*
Resonate: Public Speaking and Storytelling (4.5 quarter credits)*
Speaking with clarity, confidence, and precision is an essential skill to advance innovative ideas. This course helps students build confidence in preparing and delivering informative and persuasive speeches in service of compelling audiences and illuminating ideas. Topics include selection of content, audience analysis, research, organization, and use of voice and body in speech delivery. This course uses Nancy Duarte’s and Patti Sanchez’s book Resonate as an anchor text. The book helps students use the power of effective communication to lead people through the five stages of transformation using speeches, stories, ceremonies, and symbols.

Gov130S
American National Government (3 semester credits)*
This course introduces students to the structure and function of American political institutions, including the Constitution, federalism, and the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Students examine the political process, civil rights and liberties, political parties and elections, and the development of major areas of public policy.

Math130S
Pre-Calculus (3 semester credits)*
This course provides a comprehensive study of pre-calculus mathematics, preparing students for the calculus sequence while connecting concepts to application. Topics include polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their graphs; systems of equations and inequalities; analytic geometry; sequences and series; and vectors. Emphasis is placed on mathematical modeling, transformations, scaling, and proportional reasoning as tools for problem-solving in both calculus preparation and design practice.

Math 131S
Calculus 1 (3 semester credits)*
This course provides an introduction to differential and integral calculus of functions of a single variable. Topics include limits and continuity, the derivative and its applications, and an introduction to the definite integral and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Emphasis is placed on both analytical technique and conceptual understanding of rates of change and accumulation.

Math 132S
Calculus 2 (3 semester credits)
This course continues the study of calculus begun in Calculus 1, with emphasis on techniques and applications of integration, infinite sequences and series, and an introduction to parametric and polar functions. Students build fluency with increasingly complex analytical techniques while connecting these tools to modeling problems in the sciences and design.

Math145Q*
Pre-Calculus with Design Applications (4.5 quarter credits)*
This course provides a comprehensive study of pre-calculus mathematics, preparing students for the calculus sequence while connecting concepts to applications in design and the creative arts. Topics include polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their graphs; systems of equations and inequalities; analytic geometry; sequences and series; and vectors. Emphasis is placed on mathematical modeling, transformations, scaling, and proportional reasoning as tools for problem-solving in both calculus preparation and design practice.

Math 150S
Integrated Math and Computational Sciences I
This course is a conceptual bridge across Algebra, Geometry and Pre-Calculus that introduces core concepts of computer science and programming (Python), statistics and data science. Emphasizing real-world applications of mathematics and computational thinking, students engage in deep inquiry to build skills, knowledge, and dispositions through authentic projects.

Math 151S
Integrated Math and Computational Sciences 2 (3 semester credits)
This course extends the conceptual bridge of Integrated Math and Computational Sciences I to more advanced concepts of differential and integral Calculus. Through an immersion in mathematical sciences and computational thinking, this course emphasizes the application of mathematical reasoning, logic and data science to address real-world challenges through authentic projects. Students will further build computer science skills including Python and mobile application design, and explore the fundamental principles of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI).

Math 230S
Elementary Statistics (3 semester credits)*
This course in elementary statistics introduces students to descriptive measures for empirical data, the theory of probability, and probability distributions. Students study sampling distributions of statistics from large and small samples, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression, building the statistical literacy needed to interpret and evaluate data-driven claims.

Math245Q*
Elementary Statistics for Entrepreneurship (4.5 quarter credits)*
Understanding the application of data is an essential tool to the success of creative ventures.This course in elementary statistics builds that skill set by having students experiment with such topics as: descriptive measures for empirical data, theory of probability, probability distributions, sampling distributions of statistics from large and small samples, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression. Students then explicitly connect this knowledge and practice to both case studies in design and entrepreneurship, and to their own design project work.

Psy130S
General Psychology (3 semester credits)*
This course provides a broad survey of the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. Topics include the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and memory, cognitive development, personality, social behavior, and psychological disorders. Students examine research methods used in psychology and apply psychological principles to the analysis of everyday behavior.

Sci130S
General Biology I (4 semester credits)*
This course introduces the general concepts of biology, including the chemical and cellular organization of living things, cell structure and function, metabolism, cell division, and classical and molecular genetics. Laboratory work reinforces lecture topics through direct observation, experimentation, and data analysis.

Sci131S
General Biology 2 (4 semester credits)*
Continuing from General Biology I, this course examines the diversity of life, including the classification, structure, and function of plants and animals, principles of evolution, and ecological relationships. Laboratory work provides direct observation and analysis of organisms and ecosystems.

Sci132S
General Chemistry 1 (4 semester credits)*
This course introduces the fundamental principles of chemistry, including atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, nomenclature, stoichiometry, states of matter, and gas laws. Laboratory work develops quantitative measurement and analytical technique while reinforcing lecture concepts through hands-on experimentation.

Sci133S
General Chemistry 2 (4 semester credits)*
Continuing from General Chemistry 1, this course covers solutions, thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, and electrochemistry, with an introduction to organic chemistry. Laboratory work continues to build quantitative and analytical skill through experimentation.

Sci134S
Epidemiology (3 semester credits)
This course introduces the principles and methods used to study the distribution and determinants of disease and health-related events in populations. Students examine measures of disease frequency and association, study designs, and the role of epidemiological data in shaping public health policy.

Sci137S
General Physics 1 (4 semester credits)*
This algebra- and trigonometry-based course introduces the fundamental principles of classical mechanics, including kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion, work and energy, momentum, and rotational motion, along with an introduction to heat and thermodynamics. Laboratory work reinforces lecture concepts through measurement and experimentation.

Sci138S
General Physics 2 (4 semester credits)*
Continuing from General Physics 1, this course introduces electricity, magnetism, light, and optics, with an introduction to atomic and nuclear physics. Laboratory work reinforces lecture concepts through measurement and experimentation.

Sci145Q*
Physics (4.5 quarter credits)*
Design leverages the unique physical properties of matter to fashion our world. This laboratory course provides a non-calculus study of the fundamental laws and properties of matter, mechanics, heat, and sound. This course places emphasis on how we measure and manipulate matter in order to leverage mathematical solutions to design problems based on an understanding of the underlying physical phenomena.

Sci146Q*
Human Anatomy & Physiology – Design for the Human Form (4.5 quarter credits)*
An essential key to understanding design for human use is founded in critical knowledge of the human body. This informs designers to achieve success in everything from designing ergonomic products to successfully engaging the senses.This course takes a visual reasoning approach to the study of the human body and the basic structure of cells, tissues, and organs. Topics include the structure and function of the integumentary, muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, and this knowledge is built systematically through modeling and visual representation.

STEM150S
Introduction to Biotechnology (4 semester credits)
This course is designed to acquaint students with the field of biotechnology and master the skills essential to conducting biotechnology research. Topics will include a history of the biotechnology industry, past and future applications, careers, including industry practices, governmental regulation and careers in biotechnology. Fundamental laboratory skills, safe laboratory practices, standard operating procedures and maintaining a compliant laboratory notebook will be covered.

STEM151S
Basic Techniques and Instrumentation for Biomanufacturing (4 semester credits)
This course introduces students to the expanding field of biomanufacturing/biofabrication — the use of living systems such as cells and tissues to produce biological products including therapeutics, medical devices, and tissue-engineered materials. Students explore the science, technology, and business of biomanufacturing through exploration, hands-on laboratory work, project-based learning, and career exploration. The course weaves together biology, chemistry, engineering, entrepreneurship, and ethical reasoning to prepare students for college and career pathways in one of the fastest-growing sectors of advanced manufacturing.

STEM152S
Introduction to Engineering (4 semester credits)
This course introduces students to the engineering design process and the major branches of engineering practice. Through case studies and hands-on projects, students explore how engineers identify problems, generate and test solutions, and iterate toward functional designs.

STEM153S
Engineering, Prototyping, and Design (4 semester credits)
Building on Introduction to Engineering, this course immerses students in the iterative process of prototyping, from initial concept through testing and refinement. Students apply engineering and design thinking principles to develop functional prototypes, using both analog and digital fabrication tools to test and evaluate their designs.

Core Courses

Bus245I4
Business Ethics (4.5 Credits)
Organizations have learned that the costs of unethical actions can be high. Consequences include legal ramifications, adverse brand images and tarnished corporate reputations. This course addresses business ethics through frameworks of moral dilemma in the context of business practice. Eminent philosophers and notable leaders of business start-ups are studied to establish foundations of grounded ethics while students examine how organizations can establish and build ethical cultures.
View Syllabus

Des145DeA1
Introduction to Art & Design (4.5 credits)
Design practices communicate through practices of drawing and modeling. A vast array of methods and techniques, from sketching to 3d printing, rely upon looking, seeing, spatial acuity, and spatial thinking. Acquiring these skills emerges through practice. This course begins that practice. Students will build upon innate spatial and design literacies in order to access more sophisticated competencies in visual communication. These competencies range from quick sketches to intricate renderings.
View Syllabus

Eng145C1
Illuminate: English Composition and Visual Storytelling (4.5 Credits)
Students will analyze, synthesize, evaluate, summarize, paraphrase, and cite written, spoken, and visual texts created by thought leaders in innovative design fields. They will leverage this systematic study to write effective expository prose and argumentation which stresses development and support of a clear thesis. This course helps students synthesize what they hear, read, and see, and gives them the tools to effectively communicate their resonance with and responses to the expertise and ideas they encounter. This prepares them for future academic and professional written communication. This course uses Nancy Duarte’s book Illuminate as an anchor text on visual storytelling. The book’s premise connects writing to design and creativity. It helps writers create a strong connection with audiences and leads to purposeful action.
View Syllabus

Eng245I4
Resonate: Public Speaking and Storytelling (4.5 credits)
Speaking with clarity, confidence, and precision is an essential skill to advance innovative ideas. This course helps students build confidence in preparing and delivering informative and persuasive speeches in service of compelling audiences and illuminating ideas. Topics include selection of content, audience analysis, research, organization, and use of voice and body in speech delivery. This course uses Nancy Duarte’s and Patti Sanchez’s book Resonate as an anchor text. The book helps students use the power of effective communication to lead people through the five stages of transformation using speeches, stories, ceremonies, and symbols.
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Ent145E3
Contemporary Social Problems / Social Entrepreneurship (4.5 credits)
What are contemporary cultures’ challenges? How might empathy better ground innovations to address those challenges? Students explore, examine, and analyze case studies of complex contemporary social problems as a basis for creating and sustaining new ventures with social value. Students conduct original research, build a deep context for a specific social topic of interest, and implement that knowledge to develop a solution plan for effective deployment.
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Math145DeA2
Design through Pre-Calculus (4.5 credits)
Design practices apply geometric, algebraic, and pre-calculus concepts and processes in order to accurately quantify physical properties around a given design problem. Measurement, survey, scaled representation, and the interrelationships of various drawing projection systems serve as frameworks for the application of these foundations in mathematics. Key applications of this work to the Design, Technology and Entrepreneurship context include analysis, measurement, descriptive geometry, coding, and drafting. (Pre-Calculus)
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Math245C4
Elementary Statistics for Entrepreneurship (4.5 credits)
Understanding the application of data is an essential tool to the success of creative ventures.This course in elementary statistics builds that skill set by having students experiment with such topics as: descriptive measures for empirical data, theory of probability, probability distributions, sampling distributions of statistics from large and small samples, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression. Students then explicitly connect this knowledge and practice to both case studies in design and entrepreneurship, and to their own design project work.
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Math245C5
MicroEconomics (4.5 credits)
Focusing on the impact of economics on Design, Technology, and Entrepreneurship initiatives, students study basic economic principles with particular emphasis upon microeconomic theory and problems. Among topics considered are the economics of the design shop and/or technology start up firm, the price system, resource allocation, the distribution of income, domestic economic problems, international trade, economic development, and comparative economic systems. Specific projects will emphasize the role of innovation in the microeconomic landscape.
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Sci145C2
Physics (4.5 credits)
Design leverages the unique physical properties of matter to fashion our world. This laboratory course provides a non-calculus study of the fundamental laws and properties of matter, mechanics, heat, and sound. This course places emphasis on how we measure and manipulate matter in order to leverage mathematical solutions to design problems based on an understanding of the underlying physical phenomena.
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Sci145C3
Human Anatomy & Physiology – Design for the Human Form (4.5 Credits)
An essential key to understanding design for human use is founded in critical knowledge of the human body. This informs designers to achieve success in everything from designing ergonomic products to successfully engaging the senses. This course takes a visual reasoning approach to the study of the human body and the basic structure of cells, tissues, and organs. Topics include the structure and function of the integumentary, muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, and this knowledge is built systematically through modeling and visual representation.
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