To search for a course at UCSB, or obtain a list of courses by department, use the online Schedule of Classes.
MAT 10
Introduction into Media, Arts, Design, Engineering, and Science in a Computational Context
4 units
Instructor: M. Novak
Description
Introduces students to the technology/art/science/society/creativity/computation matrix. Covers the history of this field, and a set of conceptual and theoretical strategies that will enable them to navigate this complex transdisciplinary environment.
MAT 110CF
Media Arts and Design Concepts
4 units
Instructor: D. Flatley
Description
Media Arts and Design: Concepts and Fundamentals is an introductory course that covers the principles and practices of media arts and design. Studentslearn to create digital graphics, audio compositions, and video productionsusing digital tools and technologies. The course adopts a hands-on approach, emphasizing emerging design techniques such as generative artificial intelligence, parametric design, and algorithmic composition. The course challenges students to critically evaluate the role of media arts and design in contemporary society. The course format includes two in-person lecture sessions and one section per week, with a focus on technological literacy, software proficiency, and computational design.
MAT 111AU
MAD Skills: Audio Engineering, Sound Design, and Generative Music Systems
4 units
Instructor: J. Sibley-Schwartz
Description
This project-based course will cover concepts in audio mixing, editing, andsound design. You will learn fundamentals of audio engineering through recording and producing original audio tracks, develop skills in audio programming to create bespoke audio effects and generative music systems, gain skills using industry-standard audio software Ableton Live as well as Max4Live, get a chance to collaborate and work alongside other creators here on campus, and have your work showcased in an event at the end of the session.
MAT 111FS
MAD Skills: Fundamental Skills of Media Arts
4 units
Instructor: I. Paterakis
Description
Media Arts and Design Skills - Fundamental Skills is an introductory coursethat focuses on the skills and practices of media arts and design. Studentsidentify a theme and explore it through reading and making over six weeks. The course emphasizes a hands-on approach and requires physical evidence ofstudents' efforts. Students analyze successful architects, designers, and artists who defined the areas of media, arts, and design. The course format includes two in-person lectures and one in-person section per week, with a focus on producing examples for the final project. The end goal is asuccessful final project presented in an exhibition format on campus.
MAT 111PF
MAD Skills: Prototyping and Fabrication
4 units
Instructor: N. Manoudaki
Description
Covers the entire process from concept design to detailed plans, and students navigate it using traditional sketching and cutting-edge AI tools.Practical lessons in laser cutting and 3D printing empower students to create multi-material constructs, emphasizing iterative design processes torefine outcomes. The course is partly held in the Library Makerspace, and it includes hands-on sections promoting active learning. Students culminatetheir learning in a final project, where they explore innovative form factors, interactive prototypes, and fabrication practices.
MAT 111WN
MAD Skills: Web-Based Interactive Narratives
4 units
Instructor: S. Xiao
Description
This course offers a hands-on approach to learning creative coding, enabling students to design and develop web-based interactive stories with a blend of text, images, sound, and interactions. The curriculum will introduce narrative structures, creative coding techniques, and the basics of web design and development. Projects range from simple animations to complex, user-driven narratives. No prior coding experience is required.
MAT 189
Media Arts and Design Capstone
4 units
Instructor: K. Yerkes
Description
Capstone course for the Media Arts and Design Minor. Synthesizes learning ffrom other Media Arts and Design courses through the development of a digital portfolio and meetings with guest speakers.
MAT 293
Internship in Industry
1-4 units
Instructor: Use specific instructor code
Description
Special projects for selected students. Offered in conjunction with selected industrial and research under direct faculty supervision. Prior departmental approval required.
MAT 596
Directed Research
2-12 units
Instructor: Use specific instructor code
MAT 597
Individual Study, PhD exams
1-12 units
Instructor: Use specific instructor code
MAT 598
Master's Thesis/Project Research
1-12 units
Instructor: Use specific instructor code
MAT 599
PhD Dissertation Research and Preparation
1-12 units
Instructor: Use specific instructor code
M - Monday, T - Tuesday, W - Wednesday, R - Thursday, F - Friday.
Choose your electives from Art, Computer Science, ECE, and Music, then have them approved by the instructor.
Instructor Codes: T. Höllerer (27), J. Jacobs (02), J. Kuchera-Morin (33), G. Legrady (09), M. Novak (03), F. Offert (12), M. Peljhan (11), C. Roads (08), K. Yerkes (21).