3D Digital Visualization Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (BFA)
Not all programs are offered for completion at each campus or through Berkeley College Online®. Please review the academic program pages (https://berkeleycollege.edu/academics/index.html) for information on where each program is offered. Additionally, all students may be required to take some courses at another campus or online.
COLLEGE AND PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Course Requirements
MAJOR CORE COURSES
VIZ1100 Architectural Visualization
3 Credits
Provides a foundation in the graphic language used to represent interior spaces by using drafting techniques and the proper use of drafting materials and tools. Introduces AutoCAD as a drafting tool. Topics include floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, elevations, sections, standard symbols, scale, and line weight.
VIZ1102 Illustrator and Digital Graphics
3 Credits
Surveys the world of vector-based design and illustration using Adobe Illustrator. Students will explore the unique capabilities of vector graphics, enabling them to create original, scalable, and high-quality graphics for print and digital applications. Emphasis will be placed on mastering the tools and techniques specific to Illustrator and applying design principles effectively in vector-based projects.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ1110 Sketching and Color Composition
3 Credits
Introduces the development of basic freehand sketches. This course emphasizes quick sketch techniques and rapid 3D visualization. Students learn a variety of drawing media, rendering techniques and color theory, and fundamentals for visually communicating design concepts.
VIZ1120 Conceptual Design
3 Credits
Introduces the principles and elements of design. This course emphasizes conceptual analysis and problem solutions in two- and three-dimensional design. Students examine the psychological and cultural impact of form, space, and volume in making appropriate design decisions.
VIZ1150 CAD I
3 Credits
Students learn to use SketchUp, Layout, and Enscape to 3D model their designs and present them in Orthogonal Projections such as plan, sections and elevations, and rendered perspectives.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ1190 Typography I
3 Credits
Introduces the history, physical attributes, family classification, terminology, and structural aspects of type. Students explore typography as a medium that conveys aesthetic, emotional, and intellectual meaning. Students create effective marketing materials by incorporating type as an integrated and active element.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ2200 CAD II
3 Credits
Instructs students in the use of Rhino 3D modeling and rendering tools to create, manipulate, and render three-dimensional views of interior spaces. Students master modeling, materials, and lighting to develop striking renderings of their design solutions using Rhino’s native rendering engine as well as Enscape.
Prerequisite: VIZ1150
VIZ2205 Three-Dimensional Design
3 Credits
Focuses on spatial organization, transforming two-dimensional ideas into three-dimensional experiences. Students will explore balance, form, and volume while experimenting with various construction methods and materials. Hands-on projects enable students to create, represent, and respond to form in physical space. The course combines lectures, guided assignments, and critiques to offer a well-rounded understanding of three-dimensional design.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ2220 3D Design and Modeling
3 Credits
Introduces 3D design as a key method for visual communication. Students explore form, space, scale, lighting, and materials by creating 3D objects and typographic elements. The course emphasizes transforming two-dimensional design concepts into three-dimensional outcomes for real world graphic design applications, such as branding, packaging, environmental graphics, and static campaign visuals.
Prerequisite: VIZ1110
VIZ2260 Architectural Construction and Methods I
3 Credits
Studies the relationship between Interior Design and Architectural systems. Topics include construction methods and materials. Focusing on wood-frame residential construction. This course covers foundation, floor, wall and roof systems; construction techniques and building materials; elements of site analysis, regulatory factors, and zoning ordinances.
Prerequisite: VIZ1150
VIZ2290 Lighting
3 Credits
Introduces the student to the basic principles of lighting design. This will include technical, sustainable, and creative aspects of producing reflected ceiling plans and integrating light into the fabric of architecture. This course also covers the design and model making process of light fixtures.
Prerequisite: VIZ1150
VIZ2295 Typography II
3 Credits
Develops the skills acquired in Typography I. Projects incorporate type as a decorative element to produce creative marketable design results. Principles of selecting typeface, use of grids, and basic layout designs and formats are addressed.
Prerequisite: VIZ1190
VIZ3220 3D Design and Modeling II
Builds on foundational three-dimensional design skills with an emphasis on applied visual communication. Students develop refined 3D assets and scenes focusing on composition, narrative, and integration across media. The course emphasizes how 3D design supports graphic systems, storytelling, and contemporary design practice.
Prerequisite: VIZ2220
VIZ3350 Architectural Construction and Methods II
3 Credits
Builds on the concepts presented in Architectural Construction and Methods I. Students are introduced to the various components and systems used in the construction and assembly of commercial buildings. Focusing on masonry, steel construction, green roofs, HVAC, plumbing, and acoustics. Introduction of fire suppression as well as circulation systems are discussed.
Prerequisite: VIZ2260
VIZ3370 CAD III: Working Drawings
3 Credits
Teaches students to use Revit to create industry-standard construction drawings used by the trade to build and renovate spaces. Symbols, graphic notations, sections, details, and schedules are taught for the proper representation of designs as legal construction documents.
Prerequisite: VIZ3350
VIZ3380 Furniture Design
3 Credits
Covers the basic principles and techniques of furniture design, emphasizing creativity, functionality, materials, and construction documentation. Focuses on understanding the design process, manufacturing techniques, and human factors for responsible design. Through a series of design projects, students will learn to use sketching and technical drawing skills, model making, and 3D prototyping.
Prerequisite: VIZ3350
VIZ4405 Motions Graphics
3 Credits
Provides a foundational introduction to Adobe After Effects and the core principles of motion design. Students explore timing, spacing, and kinetic typography for digital platforms. The course emphasizes software proficiency and the aesthetic requirements for creating short-form brand assets through movement.
Prerequisite: VIZ2295
VIZ4406 Motion Graphics II
Explores advanced motion workflows for multi-platform campaigns, focusing on the production standards required for digital out-of-home, broadcast, and streaming media. Students synthesize 2D and 3D assets into a comprehensive production pipeline, integrating media storytelling.
Prerequisite: VIZ4405
GRD4455 Capstone Research
3 Credits
Offers students an opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic of their choosing while concurrently devising a strategic plan for their upcoming Senior Showcase project. Successful completion involves the presentation and defense of the project proposal, affirming their expertise in their chosen area of concentration.
Prerequisite: VIZ3220 or VIZ3360
GRD4460 Capstone Project
3 Credits
Engages students in the hands-on production of their creative endeavors. Successful completion marks the pinnacle of their academic journey, showcasing their design expertise in a public exhibition.
Prerequisite: GRD4455
GRD4470 Special Topics in Graphic Design
3 Credits
Explores diverse subjects in design. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of concepts presented, culminating in the creation of polished, portfolio-ready projects.
Prerequisite: VIZ3220 or VIZ3360
VIZ4481 Portfolio
3 Credits
Provides a studio and critique workshop. Students edit, create, add, highlight, and refine projects to meet industry standards and promote individual graphic design skills in their specialized area. This course is taken in a student's senior year.
Prerequisite: VIZ3220 or VIZ3360
GRD4483 Internship
3 Credits
Provides a field-based internship experience where students acquire career/professional skills within the graphic design industry. This course is taken during a student's last semester of study.
Prerequisite: Departmental permission
Graphic Design/Interior Design Electives – 9 Credits
LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCE CORE COURSES*
ENG1105 Writing and Research
3 Credits
An introduction to expository writing through a comprehensive survey of forms of composition. Students are taught to use words with precision and strengthen their understanding and application of grammatical and rhetorical principles. Students are encouraged to appreciate and incorporate the principles of academic and professional writing.
ENG2205 Writing Through Literature
3 Credits
Further develops the writing, reading, and interpretive abilities introduced in ENG1105 through critical engagement with literary texts from a myriad of genres.
Prerequisite: ENG1105
ENG3316 The Confident Writer
3 Credits
Explores a wide variety of non-fiction writing genres, including personal profile, journalism, criticism, and more. Students build their reading, writing, and researching skills while also reinforcing the fundamental concepts and current developments associated with the areas of their respective majors.
Prerequisite: ENG2205
MAT2211 College Algebra
3 Credit Hours
Introduces students to solving problems by using geometric and algebraic approaches. Topics include the Cartesian coordinate system, linear equations, absolute value, rational and exponential functions, systems of linear equations, linear inequalities, logarithms, and polynomials.
Prerequisite: CSK85 or placement-based score
HUM2225 Introduction to Ethics
3 Credits
Introduces the study of ethics and moral philosophy, including its historical development, the major figures within that history, and ethical and moral issues that face us today. This course presents the perspectives of various schools of thought and encourages students’ own critical thinking on ethical and moral issues in dialogue with others.
SOC1123 First Year Experience
3 Credits
Explores the challenges students most frequently face in pursuing and achieving a college degree. Students will identify their own perceived challenges, share critical insights to meeting them, and implement their own plan of action to address and overcome such challenges.
SOC2110 AI-Powered Communication
3 Credits
Explores emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) trends and their social and ethical implications. Analyzes the impact of AI on content generation, creativity, media production, and employment. With a focus on academic and professional integrity, students will develop and apply AI literacy skills in a variety of contexts.
SOC2231 Human Relations
3 Credits
Students will develop the interpersonal skills known to be key ingredients for successful everyday interactions with a focus on the challenges of workplace relationships involving coworkers, supervisors, and customers/clients. Some major skill areas covered in the course include making a good impression with your employer, managing conflict with difficult coworkers, working on a team with diverse groups of people, providing exceptional service for customers/clients, and managing on-the-job stressors.
Liberal Arts Electives - 6 Credits
Humanities Elective - 3 Credits
Mathematics/Science Elective - 3 Credits
English Elective - 3 Credits
Social Science Elective - 3 Credits
120 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION
*12 credits of Liberal Arts Electives must be at the 3000/4000 level.
Detailed, itemized information describing the required supplies and listing typical prices for each such item is available at https://berkeleycollege.edu/catalogs/undergraduate-2026-2027/admissions/undergraduate-degree-program-tuition-fees-2026-2027/index.html