Seven students in DA200, the 3D Digital Design class, have had their artwork featured on the online art gallery of software development company McNeel.

The students utilized the 3D modeling software Rhinoceros to build objects and environments that can be applied to a variety of functions, like still imagery, product design and computer animation.

DA200 is a studio course, which introduces 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, rendering and composition through the use of the computer. The course demonstrates the importance 3D modeling has in product design as well as its uses for animation in film and gaming.

DA&S students benefit from an education in both the artistic and scientific aspects of digital graphic arts. The program prepares students for career opportunities in a wide range of fields — from working in movies and computer/video games, education (Web-based delivery of exciting educational materials) to computational science (scientific visualization) and graphics for virtual reality applications.

The DA&S major spans the boundaries between the sciences and the arts. Students take advantage of programs in math, computer science, digital arts, and communication and media. The program’s objective is to combine artistic and scientific skills and interests and develop creative talent, with a strong technical foundation.

Clarkson’s “Edge”

DA&S students benefit from small classes and personal attention. The DA&S major is strengthened by Clarkson’s technology-rich environment. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and experiences such as:

• Internet Teaching Laboratory
• Eastman Kodak Center for Excellence in Communication
• Virtual Reality Discovery Laboratory
• Clarkson Open Source Institute
• Digital Art Software and Programs
• Digital Video and Audio Equipment
• 2D and 3D Printing Technology
• Motion Capture Equipment
• Field Trips to Game Design Firms and Conferences

Digital Portfolio Development

DA&S students develop their research and creative abilities through an extensive portfolio development process spanning multiple semesters. The culminating project, a digital portfolio, requires each DA&S student to demonstrate his or her creative abilities and technical prowess in multiple media using a wide variety of digital tools. The portfolio will tangibly demonstrate a student’s skills and potential, and will prove to be key in leading to first-job opportunities and/or entry to graduate school.

Project-based Learning

Clarkson takes a project-based approach to learning. Because you focus on the creative application of knowledge and skills to solve practical, real-world problems, you gain a strong hands-on foundation in the basics, teamwork and leadership skills, practice in creative problem solving, techniques in research and analysis and skills in applying what you know. All of this is part of Clarkson’s emphasis on rigorous professional preparation, real-world learning and teamwork.

Real-world Experience

Clarkson’s award-winning Career Center gives DA&S students the opportunity to utilize the University’s co-op program. By spending a semester and a summer working for a salary in a professional setting, our co-op students gain valuable workplace experience. All our majors are required to complete a three-credit internship or research project.

DA&S students have opportunities to work with faculty in affiliated departments on research and grant projects. On some occasions, students accompany faculty members to professional conferences and participate in presenting the research.

For more information, contact:

Digital Arts & Sciences
Department of Communication & Media
Clarkson University
PO Box 5760
Potsdam, NY 13699-5760
315-268-6484
315-268-6485 (fax)
digitalarts@clarkson.edu

or

Department of Mathematics & Computer Science
Clarkson University
PO Box 5815
Potsdam, NY 13699-5815
315-268-2395
315-268-2371 (fax)
digitalarts@clarkson.edu