This course will introduce students to the forms and techniques of writing for visual media, particularly the short film. Students will develop resources for finding stories and concepts that can be turned into films. Students will be responsible for writing a short script of their own choosing and for completing several brief written exercises in areas such as personal storytelling, character development, dialogue, and plot. Scripts written in this course can be used as the basis for films produced in other classes.

This course not only examines the creative construction of various types of dramatic work, but also the less tangible elements of the art, including theme, truth, factual accuracy, social responsibility, dramatic license, philosophy, and the role of the dramatist in a rapidly changing world. Students will engage with a variety of writing methodologies and practices through screenings of feature films, documentaries, historical adaptations, limited series, one-hour dramas, and half-hour TV comedies that help illustrate the lessons within the topics.

This course will provide the first practical experience of building a complete animated film from conception to finish. Students will apply their knowledge within the greater context of an animation production pipeline. Weekly workshops are focused on helping students plan, develop, and execute their work with regular milestones and deadlines. Students will practice time-management and build skills to adhere to deadlines, and will present their completed films to the RIT community.

This course will teach students the basics of Adobe After Effects. Students will learn production theory as well as gain practical experience in 2.5 D animation production.

This course will explore the short screenplay as its own genre and as a stepping-stone to writing longer forms. Students will improve their ability to develop goals and obstacles and, thereby, create a complete narrative journey. Students will write approximately fifteen-minute film or animation scripts. Film scripts may be used in production courses.

This course will explore the short screenplay as its own genre and as a stepping-stone to writing longer forms. Students will improve their ability to develop goals and obstacles and, thereby, create a complete narrative journey. Students will write approximately a 15 minute film or animation scripts. Film scripts will be used in production courses.