Each semester, instead of being bogged down with required courses, utilize some elective requirements to take something of interest. Below is a list of 10 easy courses at Champlain College;
1. ART-110 – Drawing, Introductory
This studio course emphasizes a creative discovery of two-dimensional forms using pencil, pen and ink, watercolors, charcoal, and more. Students will consider the nature and importance of light, values and graphic composition in selectively seeing and recording a visual world
2. WRT-346 – Publishing in the 21st Century
The course takes advantage of the Champlain College Publishing Initiative and gives groups a hands-on working experience in all aspects of publication: writing, editing, copy-editing, research, illustration, layout/design, cover art, promotion, publicity, event management, marketing, web design and usage, sound recording, business and legal issues, and more
3. COM-110 – Public Speaking
Public Speaking students will learn to prepare and deliver informative and persuasive speeches, with an emphasis on researching topics, determining purposes and goals, and organizing content. They will also learn to construct well-reasoned persuasive arguments, and how to improve aspects of delivery such as controlling nervousness and developing use of vocal variety. This course will most certainly boost your value in the workplace.
4. WRT-110 – Literary Magazine I
The class meets only once a week, and comes together with Lit Mag II on Thursday evenings. Lit Mag provides a setting where students can experience the practical elements of assembling a magazine devoted to publishing poetry, fiction, creative essays, plays, photography, and visual art. Students love this course so much that many take it twice during their time at Champlain.
5. ART-115 – Introduction to Photography
this Intro to Photography class, students will learn the components of the 35mm camera; the interrelationship of ASA, aperture, and shutter speed; and film types and their applications. Elements of composition, light and aesthetic values are covered. The darkroom and printing process are included in the course format. With all the construction on campus this spring, they even furnished a new darkroom, as the old one in Hauke will not be accessible next fall semester. Practical and professional applications of photography are examined. The only thing that may hold you back – you must provide your own 35mm SLR camera. Although, it is a good investment
6. COR 102-01 – Reading, Writing, and Making Protest Posters
From the Russian Revolution through contemporary movements like Amplifier, to digital work and social media, students will learn about historical and contemporary social movements that have incorporated paper art and/or posters into their movement strategies. We will see where artists have borrowed from conventional art practices, and also created their own, for a different audience and purpose. Through texts, videos, and hands-on practice, students will explore the interdisciplinary connections and ‘write’ their own manifesto, write a personal analysis towards the creation of their own activist posters, and create the poster.
7. COR 102-10 – Reading, Writing, and Music
This section will tap into the human passion of wanting to understand music, wanting to make music, and wanting to define music better. We all very much identify with particular genres of music, particular artists, and perhaps particular instruments. In this section, students will learn how to write about music and genres of music and also learn about the process of creative songwriting.
8. BRD 216 – Broadcast Writing
This course examines techniques, styles, formats and theories involved in writing for producing broadcast and streaming media such as radio, television, and web sites featuring video. Students will learn how to write effective material including public service announcements, commercials, features, news, education and training programs. The focus of the course is on the elements of style unique to media received in an electronically delivered venue.
9. COM 120 – Media and Society
This course is an introduction to the electronic, film and print media and their functions. It includes an examination of the background, organization, current influence and future trends of books, newspapers, radio, film, audio recordings, television and the internet. Contemporary problems of the media are covered such as the legal, social, economic and psychological implications of their relationships with society. Application of advertising and public relations and their use of the eight mass media outlets are addressed.
10. FLM 301 – Topics in Cinema
Topics in Cinema is a rotating-subject course designed to introduce students to a wide range of concepts within the field of film studies. Its scope is broad and changes from semester to semester; topics may include but are not limited to the study of specific filmmakers, specific film genres, certain national cinemas, film movements, or other special topics.
