This is the current list of courses offered in the BA in Creative Arts program (Subject to Change):
CART 101 - The Creative Christian 3 cr.
The Creative Christian is the cornerstone to a BACA student’s education. Within this course, the student will learn about the nature and purpose of art viewed through a Judeo-Christian lens. They will discover how this knowledge can guide their aesthetic comprehension as they observe, create, and support art and artists. Using both the bible and other powerful literature derived from some the great aestheticians of our time - the student will be able to approach art with a newly developed critical eye to guide them through the rest of their study in the creative arts.
-Possible fee
CART 105 - Introduction to Theatre 3 cr.
The Introduction to Theatre will provide students a glimpse of one of the oldest, multi-disciplinary art forms in history. This course will give an overview of the theatrical experience - what it is, what its basic elements are, and how it has developed throughout history. The student will learn fundamental theatre terminology and explore some of the major practitioners, physical spaces, genres and literature throughout the expanse of theatre history as a means to better understand and appreciate this art form.
-Possible fee
CART 132 - Practicum in Production 1 cr.
This course is intended to give student within the theatre/Arts Management concentration an understanding of what happens behind the scenes in a theatrical production. Students will get practical experience working in a specific role within a production crew. The student has the potential to get experience as a stagehand, on costumes, set construction, light and sound board operation, stage management, properties, and other various assignments pertinent to the theatrical production.
-60 hrs. of shop work OR fulfilling all duties crewing one production from start to finish
-Instructor chooses appropriate fulfillment of practicum
CART 133 - Practicum in Performance 1 cr.
This course is intended to give a student within the theatre concentration an understanding of what happens on stage within a theatrical production. Students will get practical experience crafting a compelling performance during a theatrical presentation. (A student must audition and be cast in order to sign up for this practicum experience. A student is not guaranteed a role upon auditioning and the student must, if cast, fulfill all duties associated with performing in one production from start to finish)
-There is a fee associated with this course
-Instructor chooses appropriate fulfillment of practicum
CART 137 - Practicum in Management 1 cr.
This course is intended to give a student within the Arts Management concentration a hands-on experience in managing an arts center or event. Students will get opportunities in house management, stage management, box office management, gallery management, event center management and event management
-60 hrs. of management or managing one event from start to finish
-Instructor chooses appropriate fulfillment of practicum
MUS 171 - Music Fundamentals 3 cr.
Introduction to note reading, rhythm, time signatures, ear-training, and musical terminology.
CART 165 - 2 -D Design 3 cr.
An introductory course introducing the fundamentals of design and focusing on terms and techniques that are relevant to the world of two-dimensional design. Students will deal with line, space, form, color and color theory, shape, value balance, texture, order, tension, rhythm and more as they explore the two-dimensional world of art both past and present.
-Supplies and lab fee required
CART 245a -Art Criticism and Analysis 3 cr.
Art Criticism and Analysis – This course is designed to increase the students aptitude for understanding art from a philosophical, historical, cultural, visual and social perspective. Studying specific art pieces throughout history, the student will discuss the not only the form of great works of art but also the content. Expanding aesthetic discussions concerning the visual arts specifically, students will gain understanding of the values behind art that made the pieces emblematic of their genre and time period.
-Possible fee
CART 245b - Text Analysis 3 cr.
Text analysis for the Theatre – In this course a student within the Theatre /Arts Management concentration will tackle play texts from a multitude of genres for the purpose of analysis. Using a set of tools derived from the great theatre analysts throughout history, the student will learn to analyze a text from the perspective of dramaturge, director and designer.
-Possible fee
CART 245c - Music Criticism and Analysis 3 cr.
Music Analysis and Criticism- Students will study recordings of various important pieces of music throughout history and analyze them from a philosophical, cultural, musical, and social perspective. The student will study both form and content in this course, looking at both the music and the lyric (when applicable) and how the two fuse together. Students will gain understanding of the values behind the music that made the pieces emblematic of their genre and time period.
-Possible fee
CART 176 - Acting I – Fundamentals 3 cr.
This is the fundamental course for the acting track. The student will learn about the basic building blocks of human behavior within this course and begin to discover what it means to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances. The purpose of this course is to dissolve bad performing habits within the actor and to build good habits so that the actor can deliver a simple, honest and objective-driven performance. The student will learn how to craft a simple objective and to approach basic character analysis from the actor’s point of view.
-Possible fee
BUS 243 - Financial and Budget Management (for Non-business majors)
This is an introductory course exploring the financial operations of an organization, either for profit or non-profit, for non-business majors. Upon the successful completion of this course, learners will have a basic financial understanding of how to more effectively operate an organization. Topics include: the business environment (business cycle with major macro/micro economic concepts), organizational structure and governance, forecasting-planning-controlling-decision making, best budgeting practices and principles, business strategy formation & analysis, the fundamentals of finance (debt/equity/leasing alternatives-time value of money), accounting essentials for non-business majors, tax considerations & strategies, and personal money management principles.
BUS 260 - Legal Implications 3 cr.
A general explanation of the law including its sources, development, and terminology. Specific legal doctrines and principles that affect business including an introduction to contracts, legal documents, and property are covered. Business organizations such as corporations and partnerships are described.
MUS 190P - Piano I 3 cr.
Class instruction in the development of a basic proficiency in piano. Emphasis is on note and rhythm reading, repertoire, sight reading, scales, and basic chord progressions. May be repeated for credit.
CART 361 - Graphic Design I 3 cr.
Students will learn design principles and apply them through practical projects in the area of the graphic arts. They will explore the design process and learn how to communicate ideas and values through their work. An introductory exploration of design software is necessary for students to successfully communicate through this unique, technology-driven, art form.
-Proper computer and computer programs needed to complete this course.
-Lab fee required
CART 263 - Painting I 3 cr.
This course is the foundational course in the medium of painting. Using a variety of subject matter, students will learn the techniques needed to create compelling artistic works with paint. Students will deal with multiple paint types, styles and forms and learn the basic elements to effectively communicate and create using this powerful form.
-Supplies and lab fee required
CART 276 - Acting II – Realism 3 cr.
This course is designed to solidify the actors skill set. The student will begin to analyze and score texts from the actor’s point of view and learn how to craft powerful and compelling objectives. The student will work on 20th Century American works and turn of the century realism. They will also work with subtext and language with specific focus on their scene partner.
-Possible fee
CART 260 - Drawing I 3 cr.
This foundational course will give students the techniques and tools to approach this traditionally black and white visual medium. Students will work on a variety of subject matter as they explore the world of drawing and much of what encompasses that world.
-Supplies and lab fee required
CART 365 - 3-D Design 3 cr.
An introductory course on the fundamentals of design and focusing on terms and techniques that are relevant to the world of two-dimensional design. Students will deal with line, space, form, color and color theory, shape, value balance, texture, order, tension, rhythm and more as they explore the two-dimensional world of art both past and present.
-Supplies and lab fee required
BUS 320 – Marketing 3 cr.
A general explanation of the analysis of marketing opportunities; planning of marketing programs with emphasis on product, price, promotion and distribution; control of the marketing effort; social and ethical responsibilities of marketing.
CART 340a - Art History I 3 cr.
This course is a survey of the history of the visual arts from its earliest known origins to the Renaissance. The scope of this course deals primarily with western artistic traditions but delves into the traditions of non-western visual artistry as well.
-Possible fee
CART 341a - Theatre History I 3 cr.
The Theatre/Arts Management student will study the development of theatre from Ancient Greece until the Restoration within this course. They will become familiar with the texts, spaces, conventions, practitioners, and values behind the theatre created during these theatrical periods.
-Possible fee
MUS 340 – Western Music to 1750 3 cr.
Western Music to 1750 - A study of the music of Western Civilization from antiquity through the mid-1700s. The course will reference both secular and sacred music. Students will explore the lives and music of major genres, musicians and composers from the covered periods of music.
CART 340b - Art History II 3 cr.
This course surveys the visual arts from the Renaissance until modern day. The scope of this course is primarily western in artistic tradition but also delves into bon-western visual artistry.
-Possible fee
CART 341b - Theatre History II 3 cr.
The Theatre/Arts Management student will study the development of theatre from the Restoration through the Contemporary Theatre world within this course. They will study the texts, spaces, conventions, practitioners, and values behind the theatre created during these theatrical periods
-Possible fee
MUS 341 – Western Music from 1750 3 cr.
Western Music to 1750 - A study of the music of Western Civilization’s musical development from Mozart through contemporary composers.
CART 376 - Acting III – Period and Style 3 cr.
This advanced course in acting will solidify the skills already approached in the previous acting classes and venture into turn of the century comedy of manners, and classical texts such as Shakespeare. Students will begin to learn how to act in a theatrical style that is different than their own. The student will also approach heightened language and physical characterization that supports the needs of the time period.
-Possible fee
CART 363 - Painting II 3 cr.
This course will take the students further into the realm of paining studying primarily oil and watercolor in depth. Students will navigate their way through specific design and artistic problems as a means to increase their painting skill and overall quality of artistry. Using theory, critique, and application the student will strengthen their ability to communicate and create through the medium of paint.
-Supplies and lab fee required
CART 373 - Digital Photography 3 cr.
In this introductory course, students will explore the basic techniques and history of photography. They will also discuss the requirements needed to be a proficient photographer in our contemporary society, including the proper purchase and care of equipment and materials for the current photographic artist.
-Lab fee required
-Acquisition of a digital camera, memory card, appropriate computer and computer programs necessary for this course
CART 390 - Musical Theatre Workshop 3 cr.
This course will give Theatre concentration students experience performing in this heightened and widely produced form of American theatre. The student will work on the techniques associated with performing scenes and songs, solos as well as group numbers, and discuss the musical theatre audition experience.
-Possible fee
CART 380 - Musical Theatre Dance 3 cr.
This overview in Musical Theatre dance will deliver fundamental dance technique in both ballet and jazz to the student, explore the history and background of the different practitioners and dance styles within musical theatre, and culminate in a series of performances by the student within multiple genres of Musical Theatre dance.
-Possible fee
CART 385 - Introduction to Tap Dance 3 cr.
This introductory course will train students in the fundamental technique applicable to both the Broadway and Jazz style of Tap Dance and learn about the development of tap dancing from its early American origins up through contemporary styles.
-Appropriate shoes are a requirement of this course.
-Possible fee
CART 360 - Drawing II 3 cr.
This course will take the students further into the realm of drawing and focus on portraits and model drawing. Students will navigate their way through specific design and artistic problems as a means to increase their drawing skill and overall quality of artistry. Using theory, critique, and application the student will strengthen their ability to communicate and create through the medium of the pencil and paper.
-Supplies and lab fee required
BUS 373 - Non-Profit Management 3 cr.
This course provides students with an overview of the unique management implications of the non-profit sector. It examines the roles of the executive director, the board, staff, fund-raisers and volunteers. Students will cover the major business functions and how they apply to the unique nature of nonprofits and discuss current trends in the management of these organizations.
BUS 385 - Project Management 3 cr.
An overview of project management from both strategic and operational points of view. Quantitative methods include project planning, budgeting, evaluation, selection, scheduling and control. Project management software will be used to illustrate the concepts. Qualitative methods include project organization structure, staffing and team building. The role and responsibilities of the project manager will be discussed.
CART 393 - Unarmed Combat for the Stage 3 cr.
This course provides students with the basic techniques in unarmed combat for the stage. Students will learn how to perform a staged piece of fight choreography safely and effectively. This course will implement the standards used by the Society of American Fight Directors
-Possible fee
CART 395 - Improvisation 3 cr.
This course is intended to develop a student’s skill in improvisation and primarily improvisational comedy. Working on material developed by L. Derek Leonidoff, The Groundlings, ImprovOlympic and Second City, the student will learn the techniques to deliver strong scene work within improvisational comedy which will aid a student in their overall accessibility, vulnerability and flexibility as an actor.
-Possible fee
BUS 388 – Entrepreneurship 3 cr.
This course provides an insight into the characteristics of entrepreneurs and examines the growth of entrepreneurship. Students will apply the methods used to create, identify and evaluate opportunities for new ventures and the skills that are needed to start and manage new ventures. Students will develop a preliminary business plan including problems and factors involved in launching and operating small profit and non-profit organizations. Emphasizes entrepreneur characteristics sought by venture capitalists and investors, role of the business plan and evolutionary stages of start-up activity.
CART 480 - Directing for the Stage 3 cr.
This course is intended to give Theatre students the tools to successfully direct a compelling performance on the stage. Students will be introduced to the many ways to physically communicate a story with actors, sets, props, lights and sound. The students will learn techniques of blocking within different stage styles, how to communicate with actors, how to communicate with the design team and casting a vision for a production.
-Possible fee
CART 461 - Graphic Design II 3 cr.
This course will take the students further into the realm of Graphic Design focusing on excellence in use of the design tools. Students will navigate their way through specific design and communication problems as a means to increase their design skill and overall quality of artistry on the computer. The student will strengthen their ability to communicate and create through the medium of technology.
-Proper computer and computer programs needed to complete this course.
-Lab fee required
CART 468 - Web Design and Presence 3 cr.
This course applies the elements of design into a web-based medium and then prepares a student to use those elements to create an online presence. Students will learn how to design and create compelling web pages and explore how to market themselves in the online world. They will learn the design tools and coding necessary to create a strategic and visually captivating web presence.
-Proper computer and computer programs needed to complete this course.
-Lab fee required
CART 476 - Screen Acting 3 cr.
In this course, theatre students will learn the basic stylistic adjustments needed to craft a compelling and believable performance on film. The student will be dealing with multiple on-camera styles including commercials, sitcom, night time drama, and many others.
-Lab fee required
CART 473 - Digital Video 3 cr.
This introductory class will explore the process of creation within the medium of film. Students will learn the theory, terminology, technical skills, and technique for crafting a compelling, visual story through the medium of the cinematic arts.
-Lab fee required
-Student must provide their own digital camera/video camera, computer, and computer programs according to the instructor’s specifications
CART 475 – Internship 3 cr.
A student will begin an Internship with an arts organization for the purpose of practical, professional experience in their chosen field. (The students must adhere to the rules and regulations put forth by the BACA department and their advisor concerning internships in order for the student to receive credit for the internship.)
-Possible fee
CART 477 - Senior Project 3 cr.
The student must put forth a proposal for a devised artistic experience that the student will manage from the conception to the delivery of the experience. (The students must adhere to the rules and regulations put forth by the BACA department and their advisor concerning the Senior Project in order for the student to receive credit for their Senior Project.)
-Possible fee
CART 497 - Applied Aesthetics Laboratory 3 cr.
This no-credit course is a laboratory course that is to be taken in conjunction with CART 498 Applied Aesthetics. The purpose of this course is to prepare students for the professional world of artistry by helping them develop a personal marketing package.
-Possible fee
CART 498 - Applied Aesthetics 3 cr.
This course is the capstone to the BACA student’s experience at WJU. This course will revisit some of the aesthetic arguments and discussions brought forth during a student’s tenure at WJU. The student will go deeper into the discussion of aesthetics and how aesthetics can be applied to artistic practice. The purpose of the course is to provide students a critical and moral compass in which they can approach their work as well as other work in the professional arts field of their choosing. It is the hope that this course will frame out a sense of purpose and a plan for the student to aid in the redemption of culture through personal engagement of the arts.
-Possible fee