SDA 2025 Fall Quarter

SDA School of Art and Design educational plan

This is our comprehensive 1-year plan for a 9th-grade beginner student, pluse a 4-year plan with core and elective courses. The plan will ensure students explore a variety of themes and dive deeper into art history, while also offering ample opportunities to build both technical and creative skills.

SDA School of Art and Design 1-Year Plan for 9th-Grade Beginner Students (Summer 2025)

Spring Quarter (Jan-Mar)

Theme: "The Animal Kingdom: Cats and Dogs in Art"

Focus:

Explore the artistic history of animals, specifically cats and dogs, from ancient civilizations to contemporary depictions in art.

Introduce the concept of symbolism in animals and their importance in both historical and modern contexts.

Apply artistic techniques like sketching and color theory to represent animals in various forms.

Skills Focus:

Academic Drawing: Basic sketching, form, proportion, and anatomical studies of animals.

Color Theory: Introduction to the psychology of color and its application in animal-themed artworks.

Composition: Learning how to position animals within artwork for dynamic and engaging compositions.

Light and Color: How light affects the form and texture of animals in drawing and painting.

Core Courses:

A101: Academic Drawing and Sketch (Beginner)

A103: Color Theory (Beginner)

AH101: Art History 101: Foundations of Art (Focus on animal symbolism and early depictions in cave art, Ancient Egypt, and Greek art.)

Electives:

A110: Digital Arts in Procreate (Beginner)

Introduction to creating digital illustrations, focusing on animals using Procreate.

A130: Perspective Drawing and Spatial Composition (Intermediate)

Learn to draw animals in perspective, building depth and understanding spatial layout.

Summer Quarter (April 5- June8)

Theme: "The Dawn of Civilization"

Focus:

Investigate early human history through cave paintings, ancient symbols, and the architecture of early civilizations (e.g., Mesopotamia, Egypt).

Explore how art reflected and preserved human culture, religion, and technological advances.

Skills Focus:

Academic Drawing: Develop drawing techniques for ancient artifacts, architecture, and human figures.

Painting: Apply techniques of ancient color schemes, using earth tones and symbolic representations.

Composition: Create compelling compositions based on early artwork and symbolic placement.

Light and Color: Replicating ancient color palettes and textures.

Core Courses:

A101: Academic Drawing and Sketch (Beginner)

A103: Color Theory (Beginner)

AH102: Art History 102: Classical to Medieval Art (Study early civilizations' art history and symbolic meanings in the context of the ancient world.)

Electives:

A120: Digital Arts in Procreate (Intermediate)

Focus on creating digital artworks inspired by early civilizations and their symbolic animal representations.

A202: 3D Modeling Basics with Blender (Intermediate)

Introduction to creating 3D sculptures inspired by ancient artifacts and animals in art.

Fall Quarter (September - December)

Theme: "Art as Elevation: Transforming the Ordinary"

Focus:

Transform ordinary, everyday objects into meaningful works of art using creative techniques and abstraction.

Delve into modern art and elevate everyday experiences into visual narratives.

Skills Focus:

Academic Drawing: Explore abstract and symbolic representation of everyday objects and animals.

Painting: Develop creative approaches to elevating ordinary scenes or animals through abstraction and symbolism.

Composition: Study how the ordinary can be depicted in extraordinary ways to evoke emotion and meaning.

Light and Color: Experiment with color palettes and light sources to highlight objects or animals in an unexpected way.

Core Courses:

A101: Academic Drawing and Sketch (Beginner)

A103: Color Theory (Beginner)

AH103: Art History 103: Renaissance to Baroque (Study the rise of individualism in the Renaissance and Baroque's emotional intensity in relation to elevating the human experience through art.)

Electives:

A130: Perspective Drawing and Spatial Composition (Intermediate)

Focus on transforming ordinary scenes into compelling compositions using depth and perspective.

A403: Advanced Photoshop Techniques for Artists (Once a month)

Master Photoshop for transforming and abstracting everyday objects into artistic representations.

Winter Quarter (January - March)

Theme: "Historical Echoes in Art"

Focus:

Create modern reinterpretations of iconic historical art pieces.

Bridge the gap between past and present by blending historical styles with contemporary approaches.

Skills Focus:

Academic Drawing: Study and recreate famous works of historical art while adding a modern twist.

Painting: Incorporate historical techniques into contemporary subjects and compositions.

Composition: Analyze the composition of iconic artworks and apply them in modern reimaginings.

Light and Color: Mix traditional color techniques with modern interpretations to create dynamic works.

Core Courses:

A101: Academic Drawing and Sketch (Beginner)

A103: Color Theory (Beginner)

AH104: Art History 104: Modern Art Movements (Explore modern reinterpretations of historical art movements such as Impressionism, Expressionism, and Surrealism.)

Electives:

A120: Digital Arts in Procreate (Intermediate)

Create digital reinterpretations of historical works.

A202: 3D Modeling Basics with Blender (Intermediate)

Learn 3D modeling by recreating historical sculptures and adding modern elements.

Elective Short Courses (Offered Once Per Month)

A403: Advanced Photoshop Techniques for Artists

A404: Color Theory and Application in Art

A550: Theme Cycle (Once a month, focusing on a rotating theme each quarter.)

Portfolio Prep & Extra Support

A406: Portfolio Review and Critique Sessions (Optional)

Receive feedback on artwork and portfolios with personalized guidance.

SDA School of Art and Design 4-Year Plan (For 9th to 12th Grade Students)

Freshman Year (Grade 9)

Core Focus: Build foundational skills in drawing, painting, and color theory, while exploring early themes in art history like animals in art and early human civilizations.

Skills Focus:

Academic Drawing, Color Theory, Digital Arts, and Composition.

Develop an understanding of symbolism in art and the role of animals and ancient civilizations.

Sophomore Year (Grade 10)

Core Focus: Expand into intermediate techniques, including advanced drawing and painting. Introduce more complex themes in art history and practice.

Skills Focus:

Concept Art, 3D Modeling, Animation, and Advanced Painting.

Start building a portfolio for future applications to art schools and industry-level work.

Junior Year (Grade 11)

Core Focus: Dive deeper into advanced projects, portfolio development, and more sophisticated technical skills. Continue refining the portfolio.

Skills Focus:

Specialized electives like Storyboarding, Animation, Advanced Photoshop, and 3D Art.

Focus on personal voice and thematic development in artwork.

Senior Year (Grade 12)

Core Focus: Focus on perfecting the portfolio and preparing for art school applications. In-depth critique sessions and specialized final projects.

Skills Focus:

Portfolio Development, Storytelling, and Concept Art.

Final preparations for entry into art school, including interviews, portfolio reviews, and application guidance.

Here’s an updated version of the Spring 2025 curriculum with the added field trips:

Weekend Workshops (Optional Additional Classes)

A405: Concept Art for Games and Film (Intermediate)
Focus: Concept development, environment art, and character design for entertainment media.
Time: Sunday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

A550: Theme Cycle
Focus: Exploring a specific theme each Quarter through creative, hands-on activities, fostering skill-building, innovation, and collaboration across disciplines.
Time: Sunday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

Select your Theme for Spring 2025:
Level 1: Beginner

"The Animal Kingdom: Cats and Dogs in Art"
Focus: Explore the timeless bond between humans and animals by creating works that feature cats, dogs, or other pets, drawing inspiration from historical and contemporary depictions in art.

"The Dawn of Civilization"
Focus: Focus on early human history and culture, creating works inspired by cave paintings, ancient symbols, or the architecture of early civilizations like Mesopotamia or Egypt.

Level 2: Intermediate

"Art as Elevation: Transforming the Ordinary"
Focus: Students take everyday objects, scenes, or moments and elevate them into meaningful art through creative techniques, symbolism, or abstraction.

"Historical Echoes in Art"
Focus: Create modern reinterpretations of iconic historical art pieces, blending past and present to tell a story that connects eras.

Level 3: Advanced

"Civilization and Transformation"
Focus: Explore the rise and fall of civilizations through layered storytelling, combining cultural symbols, architectural elements, and visual metaphors.

"Animal Archetypes: Guardians, Myths, and Companions"
Focus: Delve into the symbolic roles of animals in various cultures and myths, creating works that represent their spiritual, protective, or legendary significance.

Field Trips to Echo the Theme

Each quarter, we will take students on curated field trips to explore museums and galleries that connect to the current theme of their coursework. These trips will enhance their understanding of art history, artists, art appreciation, and traditional art forms.

Spring 2025 Field Trip Schedule:

The Animal Kingdom: Cats and Dogs in Art
Visit:

L.A. County Museum of Art (LACMA) – Explore the museum’s collection of works featuring animals in art, from classical depictions to contemporary interpretations.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County – Delve into the portrayal of animals in cultural and artistic contexts across civilizations.

The Dawn of Civilization
Visit:

The Getty Villa – Focus on art from ancient civilizations like Greece, Rome, and Egypt, exploring early depictions of animals, humans, and mythologies.

The California Science Center – Understand how early human technologies and art intersect, from cave paintings to architectural structures.

Art as Elevation: Transforming the Ordinary
Visit:

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) – Study contemporary artworks that transform everyday objects or moments into high art.

The Broad Museum – Explore works by artists who elevate the ordinary, including minimalism and conceptual art pieces.

Historical Echoes in Art
Visit:

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) – Take a deep dive into art movements from classical Greece through modern reinterpretations.

The Norton Simon Museum – Experience the intersection of classical art with modern forms and reinterpretations.

Civilization and Transformation
Visit:

The Getty Center – Examine art collections that trace the rise and fall of civilizations through visual storytelling in art.

The California African American Museum – Reflect on transformations in cultural identity and symbolism across history.

Animal Archetypes: Guardians, Myths, and Companions
Visit:

The Museum of Natural History – Explore how animals are portrayed as symbols of protection, myths, and spiritual guardians across various cultures.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens – Study the historical and mythological roles of animals through various collections.

Portfolio Prep & Extra Support A406: Portfolio Review and Critique Sessions (Optional)
Focus: Receive direct feedback from instructors on portfolio pieces, with personalized guidance for improvement.
Available every weekend during the quarter.

Key Highlights of Spring 2025 Curriculum:

Flexible Curriculum for All Levels
The courses are designed to cater to students at various stages: beginners (A101-A103), intermediate (A201-A202), and advanced.

Strong Focus on Portfolio Development
Students will receive tailored guidance to build or refine their portfolios throughout the semester with the A406 Portfolio Development course.

Interactive Workshops and Elective Courses
Electives such as A403 (Photoshop Techniques) and A404 (Color Theory) offer advanced insights and specialized skills to elevate students' art.

Hands-On Experience with Industry-Standard Tools
Courses integrate tools like Procreate, Photoshop, Blender, ensuring students are familiar with current industry tools.

Regular Portfolio Reviews
Portfolio critiques are available each weekend, allowing students to get personalized feedback and improve their final presentation for college applications or professional endeavors.

Field Trips to Museums
Explore art history, artists, and culture in-depth through curated museum visits that connect with the theme of the quarter.

SDA School of Arts and Design
Fall Quarter 2025 Course Schedule

Course Duration and Location

• Dates: Sep 20- Nov 25, 2025

• Location: SDA School of Film and Media Arts, online

Thematic Learning and Project Overview

Core Theme: Art Movements and Personal Evolution
This quarter, students will delve into the evolution of art movements, exploring how historical techniques and philosophies can shape their artistic voice. Each course and project is designed to align with the student's level, culminating in portfolio-worthy results.

Museum Tour: LACMA Modern Art Collection

• Objective:

  • Discover original works from modern art movements.

  • Analyze 20th-century art styles and techniques.

  • Discuss the impact of historical art on contemporary practices.

• Activities:

  • Guided tour with SDA mentors.

  • Live sketching in galleries.

  • Group discussions and critiques.

Grade-Level Projects and Milestones

9th Grade (Beginner): Foundations of Style

• Project: Create a traditional media piece inspired by a modern art movement.

• Milestones:

  • Learn basic critique skills and art history.

  • Present work in a class critique setting.

10th Grade (Intermediate): The Art of Adaptation

• Project: Develop a personal artwork blending modern art techniques and creativity.

• Milestones:

  • Explore composition and color theory.

  • Create a balanced piece integrating historical influence.

11th Grade (Advanced): Narrative in Art

• Project: Design a narrative illustration or sequence inspired by modern art.

• Milestones:

  • Focus on storytelling and spatial composition.

  • Present a polished narrative artwork.

12th Grade (Portfolio Development): Personal Evolution

• Project: Produce a professional portfolio piece that reflects historical understanding and individual style.

• Milestones:

  • Research and apply modern art influences.

  • Finalize the work with mentor feedback for college applications.

Fall Quarter 2025 Course Schedule

Saturday Classes

• 9:00–11:00 AM

  • A101: Academic Drawing and Sketch (Beginner, Required)
    Focus: Shapes, shading, proportions. Ideal for beginners.

• 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

  • A103: Color Theory (Required)
    Focus: Explore color relationships and applications. Ideal for all levels.

• 2:00–4:00 PM

  • A201: Advanced Drawing and Sketch (Advanced)
    Focus: Detail, texture, and realism. Ideal for advanced students.

  • AP110: Animation in Procreate (Beginner, Selective)
    Focus: Keyframes and movement basics. Ideal for aspiring animators.

Sunday Classes

• 9:00–11:00 AM

  • A102: Digital Arts (Beginner, Selective)
    Focus: Introduction to digital tools and techniques. Ideal for beginners.

• 11:00 AM–1:00 PM

  • A106: Concept Art Development (Intermediate, Required)
    Focus: Character and environment design. Ideal for intermediate students.

• 2:00–4:00 PM

  • A301: Storyboarding and Sequential Art (Advanced, Selective)
    Focus: Storytelling through sequential art. Ideal for advanced students.

• 5:00–7:00 PM

  • A130: Perspective Drawing and Spatial Composition (Advanced, Selective)
    Focus: Depth and dimension techniques. Suitable for all levels.

Flexible Learning Options

• In-Person Classes: Engage in hands-on instruction at our Irvine campus.

• Online Live Classes via Zoom: Participate in real-time from home.

• Prerecorded Sessions: Learn at your own pace with flexible scheduling.

• Personalized Mentorship: One-on-one guidance ensures progress and tailored learning.

Saturdays

Morning: Foundational Courses

1. A101: Academic Drawing and Sketch(Beginner)

   • Focus: Basic drawing techniques, perspective, form, proportion, and composition.

   • Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

2. A103: Color Theory (Beginner)

   • Focus: Introduction to Color Theory.

   • Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Afternoon: Intermediate+Level Courses

3. A201: Advanced Drawing and Sketch(Advanced)

   • Focus: Improving line work, adding details, and using sketching as a medium for professional artwork.

   • Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

4. AP101: Animation in Procreate(Beginner&+)

   • Focus: Intro to Animation and Digital Arts in Procreate

   • Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Sundays

Morning: Foundational & + Techniques

1. A102: Digital Arts(Beginner)

   • Focus: Creating Digital Arts in Procreate

   • Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

2. A106: Concept Art Development  (Intermediate)

   • Focus: Advanced painting techniques and composition.

   • Time: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Afternoon: Specialized Projects & Portfolio Development

3. A401: Portfolio Development and Review (Advanced)

   • Focus: Tailored guidance on curating a strong portfolio for art school applications and industry work.

   • Time: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM

4. A301: Storyboarding and Sequential Arts (Advanced)

   • Focus: Mastering visual storytelling techniques to create compelling narratives for film, animation, and comics.

   • Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

5. A130: Perspective Drawing and spatial composition (Intermediate)

   • Focus: building foundational skills in creating depth, proportion, and dynamic layouts for visually impactful artwork.

   • Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

6. A202: 3D Modeling Basics with Blender (Intermediate)

   • Focus: Introduction to 3D modeling using Blender, understanding basic sculpting and design.

   • Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Elective Short Courses (Offered Once Per Month)

A403: Advanced Photoshop Techniques for Artists

• • Focus: Industry-standard Photoshop workflows and custom brushes for professional-level art.

  • Time: Saturday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

A404: Color Theory and Application in Art

• • Focus: In-depth understanding of color harmonies, palettes, and their emotional effects in visual storytelling.

  • Time: Saturday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

Weekend Workshops (Optional Additional Classes)

A405: Concept Art for Games and Film (Intermediate)

• • Focus: Concept development, environment art, and character design for entertainment media.

  • Time: Sunday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

AH101: Art History (video class)

• Art History 101: Foundations of Art
  Explore the origins of art from prehistoric times through ancient civilizations, focusing on key works, cultural significance, and artistic techniques.

• Art History 102: Classical to Medieval Art
  Examine the evolution of art from classical Greece and Rome to the grandeur of Byzantine and Gothic art during the Middle Ages.

• Art History 103: Renaissance to Baroque
  Discover the artistic revolution of the Renaissance and its progression into the drama and emotion of Baroque art.

• Art History 104: Modern Art Movements
  Study the emergence of modernism, including Impressionism, Expressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism, and their impact on the art world.

• Art History 105: Contemporary Art and Practices
  Investigate postmodern and contemporary art trends, exploring diverse mediums, global perspectives, and current artistic practices.

• Art History 106: Non-Western Art Traditions
  Dive into the rich artistic traditions of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania, celebrating their unique contributions to global art history.

A550:Theme Cycle 

• Focus: Exploring a specific theme each Quarter through creative, hands-on activities, fostering skill-building, innovation, and collaboration across disciplines.

• Time: Sunday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

Select your Theme for Summer 2025:

• Level 1: Beginner

1. "The Animal Kingdom: Cats and Dogs in Art"
Explore the timeless bond between humans and animals by creating works that feature cats, dogs, or other pets, drawing inspiration from historical and contemporary depictions in art.

2. "The Dawn of Civilization"
Focus on early human history and culture, creating works inspired by cave paintings, ancient symbols, or the architecture of early civilizations like Mesopotamia or Egypt.

• Level 2: Intermediate

1. "Art as Elevation: Transforming the Ordinary"
Students take everyday objects, scenes, or moments and elevate them into meaningful art through creative techniques, symbolism, or abstraction.

2. "Historical Echoes in Art"
Create modern reinterpretations of iconic historical art pieces, blending past and present to tell a story that connects eras.

• Level 3: Advanced

1. "Civilization and Transformation"
Explore the rise and fall of civilizations through layered storytelling, combining cultural symbols, architectural elements, and visual metaphors.

2. "Animal Archetypes: Guardians, Myths, and Companions"
Delve into the symbolic roles of animals in various cultures and myths, creating works that represent their spiritual, protective, or legendary significance.

Portfolio Prep & Extra Support

• A406: Portfolio Review and Critique Sessions (Optional)

  • Focus: Receive direct feedback from instructors on portfolio pieces, with personalized guidance for improvement.

  • Available every weekend during the quarter.

Key Highlights of Fall 2025 Curriculum:

1. Flexible Curriculum for All Levels

   • The courses are designed to cater to students at various stages: beginners (A101-A103), intermediate (A201-A202), and advanced.

2. Strong Focus on Portfolio Development

   • Students will receive tailored guidance to build or refine their portfolios throughout the semester with the A406 Portfolio Development course.

3. Interactive Workshops and Elective Courses

   • Electives such as A403 (Photoshop Techniques) and A404 (Color Theory) offer advanced insights and specialized skills to elevate students' art.

4. Hands-On Experience with Industry-Standard Tools

   • Courses integrate tools like Procreate, Photoshop, Blender, ensuring students are familiar with current industry tools.

5. Regular Portfolio Reviews

   • Portfolio critiques are available each weekend, allowing students to get personalized feedback and improve their final presentation for college applications or professional endeavors.

SDA School of Music – Fall 2025

Theme Seminars

The Music Theme Seminars are designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience tailored to each student's skill level. They explore the rich legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach while integrating contemporary music production and performance techniques.

Beginner Level: Exploration and Foundation

Theme: Discover Your Musical Voice
Introduce students to the fundamentals of music through foundational techniques and an exploration of Bach's accessible works.

1. Bach's Basics: The Joy of Simplicity
   
   

   • Focus: Learn basic harmony and melody through Bach's simpler compositions, such as Minuet in G and selections from Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach.

2. Introduction to Music Production
   
   

   • Focus: Create beginner tracks inspired by Bach’s use of melody and harmony, using DAWs to produce classical-style loops.

3. Instruments and Inspirations
   
   

   • Focus: Basic techniques for piano, guitar, or voice using pieces like Bach’s Prelude in C Major or adapted chorales.

4. The World of Johann Sebastian Bach
   
   

   • Focus: An overview of Bach's life and music, exploring how his works revolutionized Baroque music.

Outcomes for Beginners:

• Build a strong foundation in music and production.

• Develop confidence in basic instrument techniques and music theory.

Intermediate Level: Skill Building and Creativity

Theme: Develop Your Unique Style
Refine your skills by studying Bach’s innovative techniques and applying them creatively.

1. Counterpoint Unlocked: Learning from Bach
   
   

   • Focus: Dive into Bach’s counterpoint techniques and create your own polyphonic compositions.

2. Bach and the Baroque
   
   

   • Focus: Explore Bach's contributions to Baroque music, such as fugues and dance suites, and use them as inspiration for new works.

3. Intermediate Music Production
   
   

   • Focus: Blend classical elements like string arrangements and harpsichord sounds with modern production techniques.

4. Invention and Inspiration
   
   

   • Focus: Study Bach’s Two-Part Inventions to understand melodic interplay and craft original compositions.

Outcomes for Intermediates:

• Develop technical skills and creative expression.

• Understand and apply advanced musical concepts such as counterpoint and invention.

Advanced Level: Professional Development and Mastery

Theme: Crafting Your Professional Portfolio
These courses challenge students to produce professional work inspired by Bach’s mastery.

1. Advanced Studio Production: The Baroque Soundscape
   
   

   • Focus: Produce tracks integrating Bach’s contrapuntal techniques with modern electronic styles.

2. Portfolio Project: A Tribute to Bach
   
   

   • Focus: Create a polished EP or portfolio showcasing compositions inspired by Bach, blending classical and modern genres.

3. Film Scoring with Bach’s Techniques
   
   

   • Focus: Apply Bach’s harmonic progressions and counterpoint to compose cinematic scores.

4. The Art of Fugue
   
   

   • Focus: Study and compose fugues using techniques from Bach’s The Art of Fugue, crafting advanced works for portfolios.

Outcomes for Advanced Students:

• Master professional-level music production and composition techniques.

• Create a competitive portfolio that reflects a deep understanding of classical and modern music.

Cross-Level Special Topics (All Levels)

Theme: Uniting Creativity and Tradition
Courses that bridge classical traditions with innovative music-making, accessible to all skill levels.

1. Baroque Improvisation and Performance
   
   

   • Focus: Learn how Baroque musicians improvised and apply these techniques to your instrument or digital production.

2. The Bach Fusion Workshop
   
   

   • Focus: Collaborate on projects that reimagine Bach’s music in genres like jazz, pop, and EDM.

3. Exploring Bach’s Legacy
   
   

   • Focus: Analyze Bach’s influence on composers and musicians across history, creating works inspired by his legacy.

4. Mastering Counterpoint
   
   

   • Focus: A practical workshop where students compose pieces using counterpoint techniques inspired by Bach.

Fall 2025 Course Schedule

Saturdays

Morning: Beginner-Level Courses

• M101: Bach’s Basics: The Joy of Simplicity
  Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
  Focus: Basic harmony, melody, and music theory.
  
  

• M102: Introduction to Music Production
  Time: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
  Focus: DAWs and beginner track production.
  
  

Afternoon: Intermediate-Level Courses

• M201: Counterpoint Unlocked
  Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Focus: Exploring and composing counterpoint.
  
  

• M202: Intermediate Music Production
  Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
  Focus: Blending classical elements with modern production.
  
  

Sundays

Morning: Advanced-Level Courses

• M301: Advanced Studio Production: The Baroque Soundscape
  Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
  Focus: Advanced track production integrating classical techniques.
  
  

• M302: The Art of Fugue
  Time: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
  Focus: Advanced fugue composition.
  
  

Afternoon: Cross-Level Workshops

• M401: Baroque Improvisation and Performance
  Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  Focus: Improvisation and creative interpretation.
  
  

• M402: The Bach Fusion Workshop
  Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
  Focus: Reimagining Bach in contemporary genres.
  
  

Elective Courses & Portfolio Prep

• M403: Film Scoring with Bach’s Techniques
  Offered once a month on Sundays (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM).
  
  

• M404: Portfolio Review and Feedback Sessions
  Available every weekend during the quarter.
  
  

Key Program Features

• Comprehensive Learning Path: Tailored beginner, intermediate, and advanced tracks.

• Practical Experience: Hands-on production and composition projects.

• Portfolio Development: Industry-ready EPs and film scores.

• Historical and Contemporary Integration: Combining Bach’s timeless techniques with modern creativity.

Welcome to SDA School of Film and Media Arts

At SDA School of Film and Media Arts, we nurture aspiring filmmakers, editors, and storytellers to develop their technical expertise and artistic vision. Whether you're a beginner exploring the basics or an advanced student crafting professional-level projects, our curriculum is tailored to support your creative journey.

Fall 2025 Curriculum Themes

1. Naturalism in Film

• Focus: Capturing authentic performances and natural environments with a realistic approach to storytelling.

• Skills: Basics of lighting, camera operation, and working with actors.

• Projects: Beginners create short observational scenes; advanced students produce a polished, naturalistic short film.

2. Introduction to Realism

• Focus: Crafting believable stories and immersive visuals grounded in reality.

• Skills: Scriptwriting fundamentals, realistic dialogue, and scene blocking.

• Projects: Beginners write and storyboard short scenes; advanced students film and edit a story-driven project.

3. Exploring Genres: Drama

• Focus: Deep emotional narratives and character-driven storytelling.

• Skills: Writing complex characters, building tension, and creating mood.

• Projects: Beginners create dramatic vignettes; advanced students complete a short dramatic film.

4. Documentary Foundations

• Focus: Capturing real-world events and stories authentically.

• Skills: Conducting interviews, b-roll shooting, and narrative structuring.

• Projects: Beginners create a mini-documentary; advanced students tackle a longer, theme-driven documentary project.

5. Cinematic Composition

• Focus: Understanding framing, composition, and visual storytelling.

• Skills: Storyboarding, shot planning, and the rule of thirds.

• Projects: Beginners create a series of storyboarded and filmed compositions; advanced students focus on creating a cohesive visual style.

Upcoming Winter 2025 Curriculum Themes

1. Formalism in Film

• Focus: Experimental and stylized storytelling using visual and symbolic elements.

• Skills: Advanced cinematography, abstract editing, and color grading.

• Projects: Beginners experiment with short symbolic scenes; advanced students craft a visually driven narrative.

2. Action and Movement in Film

• Focus: Filming dynamic scenes, including action sequences and choreography.

• Skills: Camera movement, pacing, and stunt coordination basics.

• Projects: Beginners shoot simple chase or movement scenes; advanced students design and film intricate action sequences.

3. Genre Filmmaking: Sci-Fi

• Focus: World-building and crafting futuristic or speculative narratives.

• Skills: Using visual effects, set design, and genre-specific storytelling techniques.

• Projects: Beginners explore basic VFX and props; advanced students create a short sci-fi film.

4. Sound and Music in Film

• Focus: Enhancing storytelling through soundscapes, Foley, and music scoring.

• Skills: Basics of audio recording, sound editing, and music composition.

• Projects: Beginners create a short scene with added sound design; advanced students complete a film with a professionally mixed soundtrack.

5. Introduction to Short Film Production

• Focus: End-to-end short film creation, from script to screen.

• Skills: Pre-production planning, filming, and post-production techniques.

• Projects: Beginners collaborate on group projects; advanced students independently produce their own short films.

Schedule:

Saturdays

Morning: Foundational Film & Media Courses

1. FM101: Introduction to Film Theory (Beginner)

   • Focus: Overview of film theory, including key concepts such as narrative structure, genres, and cinematic techniques.

   • Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

2. FM102: Cinematography and Camera Techniques (Beginner)

   • Focus: Introduction to cinematography, shot composition, camera operation, and visual storytelling techniques.

   • Time: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Afternoon: Intermediate-Level Film Production Courses

3. FM201: Screenwriting Fundamentals

   • Focus: Learn the fundamentals of writing for film, including script structure, character development, dialogue, and story arc.

   • Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

4. FM202: Directing for Film (Intermediate)

   • Focus: Basic directing techniques for film, including blocking, working with actors, and visualizing the screenplay.

   • Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Sundays

Morning: Advanced Film Production & Theory

1. FM301: Film Editing & Post-Production (Advanced)

   • Focus: Introduction to the principles of editing and post-production using industry-standard software such as Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro.

   • Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

2. FM302: Sound Design for Film (Advanced)

   • Focus: Learn the basics of sound design for film, including foley, ADR, sound mixing, and how sound enhances the visual storytelling process.

   • Time: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Afternoon: Specialized Film Production Techniques

3. FM401: Producing for Film (Advanced)

   • Focus: Learn the role of the film producer, including budgeting, scheduling, and the logistics of organizing a film production.

   • Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

4. FM402: Documentary Filmmaking

   • Focus: The art and craft of documentary filmmaking, including research, interviewing techniques, and storytelling in non-fiction films.

   • Time: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Elective Short Courses (Offered Once Per Month)

• FM403: Visual Effects for Film (Beginner)

  • Focus: Introduction to visual effects, including basic CGI techniques, compositing, and integrating visual effects into live-action footage.

  • Time: Saturday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

• FM404: Film Critique and Analysis

  • Focus: Analyze classic films and modern cinema to understand stylistic and narrative choices, studying directors, cinematographers, and editors.

  • Time: Saturday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

Weekend Workshops (Optional Additional Classes)

• FM405: 3D Animation for Film

  • Focus: Introduction to 3D animation, with an emphasis on creating 3D assets for film, including models, textures, and rendering.

  • Time: Sunday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

• FM406: Film Sound and Music

  • Focus: Explore how music, sound effects, and silence are used to support and enhance the narrative of a film.

  • Time: Sunday 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (once a month)

Portfolio Prep & Extra Support

• FM407: Portfolio Review and Feedback Sessions (Optional)

  • Focus: Personalized feedback on students' film projects and portfolio pieces, including script drafts, short films, and other film-related work.

  • Available every weekend during the quarter.

Key Highlights of the Fall 2025 Curriculum:

1. Progressive Learning Approach

   • Classes are tailored to progressively develop the student’s skills, from beginner-level theory and cinematography (FM101, FM102) to advanced production and editing techniques (FM301, FM302, FM401, FM402).

2. Hands-On Film Production

   • Through courses like FM202 (Directing for Film), FM301 (Film Editing), and FM402 (Documentary Filmmaking), students will gain practical skills that can be applied directly to their portfolios.

3. Electives for Specialized Skills

   • Elective courses like FM403 (Visual Effects for Film) and FM404 (Film Critique and Analysis) allow students to explore specific areas of interest and develop expertise in niche fields.

4. Portfolio Development

   • The FM407 Portfolio Review provides students with ongoing guidance to ensure they are creating work that is competitive and reflective of industry standards.

5. Industry-Relevant Knowledge

   • Courses like FM401 (Producing for Film) and FM302 (Sound Design for Film) focus on real-world aspects of the industry, ensuring students are prepared for the challenges of a professional career in film production.

SDA School of Film and Media Arts

Welcome to SDA Game Design Program

The SDA Game Design Program combines game design, VFX, and advanced technology to foster creativity and technical skills across multiple disciplines. Our courses not only focus on core game design concepts but also include cutting-edge technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), preparing students to stay ahead in the industry. We encourage interdisciplinary collaboration to showcase innovative thinking in both film and game creation.

2025 Summer Semester Courses

1. Game Design and Development Basics

• Focus: Learn the core principles and development processes of game design, focusing on building virtual worlds and interaction design.

• Skills: Level design, game prototyping, and user experience research.

• Project: Create a simple 2D game level and test user feedback.

2. Game Development with Engines

• Focus: Master the tools and techniques of game development using Unity or Unreal Engine.

• Skills: Game programming, graphics rendering, physics simulation, and optimization.

• Project: Develop a small 3D game prototype.

3. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Game Design

• Focus: Learn how to design immersive gaming experiences suitable for virtual and augmented reality.

• Skills: VR/AR environment design, interactive experience development, and headgear optimization.

• Project: Develop a simple VR or AR game prototype.

4. Narrative-Driven Games and Film Art Integration

• Focus: Combine film narrative techniques with game design to create interactive and story-rich experiences.

• Skills: Branching storylines, game cinematics, and character development.

• Project: Design an interactive game scene with a strong narrative component.

5. Game Audio and Film Sound Design

• Focus: Use sound design in games and films to enhance immersion and emotional expression.

• Skills: Game and film sound design, sound synthesis, and audio post-production.

• Project: Design and produce sound effects for a game or film scene.

2025 Fall Quarter Courses

1. Advanced Multiplayer and Collaborative Game Design

• Focus: Design and develop multiplayer experiences, learning about online interaction and virtual community building.

• Skills: Networking programming, multiplayer game design, and real-time data processing.

• Project: Design and develop a LAN or online multiplayer game prototype.

2. Game AI and Behavior Design

• Focus: Use artificial intelligence techniques to create intelligent behaviors for non-playable characters (NPCs) in games.

• Skills: Behavior trees, pathfinding, state machines, and decision systems.

• Project: Develop a game NPC with complex behavior patterns.

3. Advanced Virtual Reality (VR) Experience Design

• Focus: Develop high-quality, immersive VR games and applications.

• Skills: VR hardware integration, virtual environment interaction, and user experience optimization.

• Project: Design and implement an immersive VR environment and interactive experience.

4. AR Game and Film Interaction Design

• Focus: Explore how Augmented Reality can enhance the interaction between games and films.

• Skills: AR app development, image recognition, and virtual object placement.

• Project: Create an AR game prototype that incorporates film elements to enhance immersion.

5. Game and Film Project Management

• Focus: Learn how to manage interdisciplinary projects that integrate game design and film production.

• Skills: Project planning, team collaboration, and time management.

• Project: Participate in a complete game or film project, from concept to final product.

Key Program Features

Interdisciplinary Integration
Our game design courses are integrated within the Film School framework, giving students the chance to study both game design and filmmaking, as well as advanced technologies like VR and AR.

Cutting-Edge Technology
Courses include VR and AR design, utilizing the latest tools and platforms to help students create innovative games and interactive experiences.

Project-Based Learning
Students engage in project-driven learning, where they will design, develop, and test real game prototypes.

Industry Interaction
Special events such as “VR Experience Showcases” and “Interactive Game Workshops” offer students opportunities to interact with industry experts and the public, helping them transition into the industry.

Portfolio Development and Career Planning
At the end of the program, students will create a high-quality portfolio and receive professional guidance to prepare for the game design and film industries.

2025 Fall Quarter Schedule

Saturday Courses

• Morning: GD101: Game Design Fundamentals (Beginner)
  Learn the core principles of game level design and user experience.
  Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

• Afternoon: GD201: Game Development with Engines (Intermediate)
  Develop game prototypes using Unity or Unreal Engine.
  Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Sunday Courses

• Morning: GD301: Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Game Design (Advanced)
  Explore VR/AR technologies and create immersive experiences.
  Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

• Afternoon: GD302: Advanced Multiplayer and Collaborative Game Design (Advanced)
  Design multiplayer game prototypes and learn cross-platform collaboration.
  Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM