Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV

Please note:

To view the Fall 2024 Academic Calendar, go to www.sfu.ca/students/calendar/2024/fall.html.

, | Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV Calendar | Spring 2025

Communication and Interactive Arts and Technology Joint Major

Bachelor of Arts

This program offers training in the interactions of humans and technology combined with an understanding about how information is created, coded, communicated and controlled. Program graduates benefit from a unique mix of technical skill, communication theory, and practice from across traditional and new media.

Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV Requirements

Please refer to the admission requirements section.

Program Requirements

Prerequisite Grade Requirement

Communication and interactive arts and technology course entry requires a grade of C- or better in each prerequisite course.

Students must obtain permission from the department if they wish to complete, for further credit, any course that is a prerequisite for a course the student has already completed with a grade of C- or higher.

Continuance Requirements

Students in the School of Interactive Arts and Technology are required to maintain a 2.4 GPA in their IAT courses. Students who fall below this continuance requirement will be placed on academic warning in the School of Interactive Arts and Technology and will have two terms to bring their IAT GPA to a 2.4 or higher. Failure to do so will result in removal from the interactive arts and technology major or joint major program.

Students removed from the interactive arts and technology major or joint major program will be placed in the Faculty of Communication, Art and Technology double minor program.  Students wishing to transfer back into the major or joint major will need to meet the admission requirements to obtain re-entry.

Lower Division Requirements

Communication

Students complete all of

CMNS 110 - Introduction to Communication Studies (3)

An introduction to selected theories about human communication. This course is required for a major, honours or minor in communication. Breadth-Social Sciences.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Sarah Christina Ganzon
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D110 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D111 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D112 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Layla Cameron
Online
CMNS 120W - Creativity and Communication Across Media (3)

Introduces students to the creative practice of multimodal writing and content creation for communication and media studies. Topics may include: creativity and idea generation; media literacy in digital environments; writing conventions for various platforms and genres; analytical writing and scholarly argumentation; audio-visual production for popular audiences. Writing.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Jennesia Pedri
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D110 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D111 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D112 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
CMNS 130 - Communication and Social Change (3)

An introduction to the forms, theories and institutions of communication as they relate to broader social change, with a focus on the political, economic and regulatory shifts characterizing Canadian and transnational media systems. This course is required for a major, honours or minor in communication.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Svitlana Matviyenko
Online

and at least five 200 level CMNS courses, including

CMNS 201W - Empirical Communication Research Methods (4) *

An introduction to empirical research methods in diverse traditions of communication enquiry. Some methods recognize communication as everyday interactions; others analyze communication as a process; still others blend traditional scientific empiricism with analytical and critical methods derived from the arts and humanities. Topics include: ethics, paradigms, conceptualizing and operationalizing research, sampling, interviews, surveys, unobtrusive observation, content analysis, and the role of statistics in communication research. Prerequisite: Nine CMNS units with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CMNS 201 or CMNS 260 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Chris Jeschelnik
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 3:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 3:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
or CMNS 201 - Empirical Communication Research Methods (4) *

An introduction to empirical research methods in diverse traditions of communication enquiry. Some methods recognize communication as everyday interactions; others analyze communication as a process; still others blend traditional scientific empiricism with analytical and critical methods derived from the arts and humanities. Topics include: ethics, paradigms, conceptualizing and operationalizing research, sampling, interviews, surveys, unobtrusive observation, content analysis, and the role of statistics in communication research. Prerequisite: Nine CMNS units with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CMNS 201W or CMNS 260 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

CMNS 202 - Design and Method in Qualitative Communication Research (4)

An introduction to interpretive approaches in communication inquiry. Topics include ethics, paradigms, conceptualizing the research process, documentary research, historical methods, discourse or textual analysis, ethnographic research, and performative research. Prerequisite: Nine CMNS units with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CMNS 262 may not take CMNS 202 for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Erique Zhang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 6:30–8:20 p.m.
Burnaby

and one of

CMNS 226 - Digital Media Communication Techniques (3)

This course introduces students to a variety of digital media communication technologies and techniques, including image and sound capturing and manipulation, Internet-based publishing and research, digitizing, editing and archiving. Design and management tasks involved in communicating using digital media are also introduced, including audio and video editing and processing, data integrity management, file structuring and packaging, and work presentation. Prerequisite: Nine CMNS units with a minimum grade of C-. CMNS 220 recommended.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Chris Jeschelnik
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
CMNS 258 - History of Sound in Media (3)

An introduction to audio representation technology and a survey of the history of major sound-based media, including a discussion of the way sound design conventions have developed over time. Students both analyze sound in media and create audio-based applied projects. Specific techniques of field recording, interviewing, editing, sound processing, multi-tracking, and basic digital audio techniques will be explored using the school's studio facilities. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 3:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby

*completion of this quantitative (Q) course satisfies part of the University's Q requirement.

Interactive Arts and Technology

CMPT 120 - Introduction to Computing Science and Programming I (3)

An elementary introduction to computing science and computer programming, suitable for students with little or no programming background. Students will learn fundamental concepts and terminology of computing science, acquire elementary skills for programming in a high-level language, e.g. Python. The students will be exposed to diverse fields within, and applications of computing science. Topics will include: pseudocode; data types and control structures; fundamental algorithms; recursion; reading and writing files; measuring performance of algorithms; debugging tools; basic terminal navigation using shell commands. Treatment is informal and programming is presented as a problem-solving tool. Prerequisite: BC Math 12 or equivalent is recommended. Students with credit for CMPT 102, 128, 130 or 166 may not take this course for further credit. Students who have taken CMPT 125, 129, 130 or 135 first may not then take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Diana Cukierman
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Surrey
D201 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Surrey
D202 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Surrey
D203 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D204 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D205 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Surrey
D206 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Surrey
D207 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
D208 John Edgar
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
or an equivalent introductory programming course such as CMPT 102, CMPT 125, CMPT 126, CMPT 128, CMPT 130, or CMPT 166
IAT 100 - Digital Image Design (3)

This is a project-based course that introduces the theory and hands-on practice of art and design in digital media. As the introductory course in IAT, this course teaches the core fundamental principles in 2D visual design, sequential and animation design. Students learn the fundamentals of digital photography and vector image creation. The theory is contextualized in contemporary new media design practice and is broadly applicable across disciplines. Breadth-Humanities.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 4:00–5:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 102 - Graphic Design (3)

Introduction to fundamental design principles for visual communication. Organized as a continual interplay of theory and practice, students will examine historical, philosophical, perceptual and semiotic approaches to understanding graphic design, and will explore principles of form, such as structure and composition, hierarchy, form, color, space, scale, typography, and legibility and readability through hands-on projects. Traditional time-based and interactive media forms will be compared and contrasted.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 4:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
E101 Diane Gromala
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
E102 Diane Gromala
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
E103 Diane Gromala
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 167 - Digital Games: Genre, Structure, Programming and Play (3)

Introduces game genres, structures, and programming methods basic to developing games. Students learn how games are designed and how to program the underlying patterns that facilitate play and engagement. Issues of user interface, skills and competition are discussed as are principles of compelling entertainment for players. Prerequisite: CMPT 120 (or equivalent first year programming course such as CMPT 102, 125, 126, 128, 130, 135, or 166) with a minimum grade of C-. Students who have obtained credit for, or are currently enrolled in, a CMPT course at the 200-division or higher, or IAT 265 or 267 may not complete this course for credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 4:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
D103 Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 201 - Human-Computer Interaction and Cognition (3)

Introduces topics in human perception, cognition and embodied action as a foundation of design for human use. It explores the practical application of techniques for analyzing diverse interactive situations and designing effective user interfaces. Students will engage in the analysis and design of a simple user interface, gaining detailed knowledge and experience with the standard basic techniques for interface specification, prototyping and evaluation. Prerequisite: Completion of 21 units, including at least one lower division "W" course.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Brian Fisher
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Brian Fisher
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 5:00–6:50 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Brian Fisher
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 7:00–8:50 p.m.
Surrey
D103 Brian Fisher
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 5:00–6:50 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 265 - Multimedia Programming for Art and Design (3)

Using cases from topics such as animation, cinema, music and design, this course introduces a variety of programming tools and techniques. Practical use of multimedia scripting languages and authoring environments is covered in the context of a series of composition and design projects. Code libraries and programming techniques for specific media will be introduced. Assessment will be based on both programming and the expressive use of programs in their case context. Prerequisite: Completion of 21 units and IAT 167 with a minimum grade of C- and one of MATH 130, MACM 101, MATH 150, MATH 151, MATH 154, or MATH 157, with a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D103 Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
or other approved second year programming course
MATH 130 - Geometry for Computer Graphics (3)

An introductory course in the application of geometry and linear algebra principles to computer graphical representation. Vector and matrix algebra, two and three dimensional transformations, homogeneous coordinates, perspective geometry. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus 12 or Foundations of Mathematics 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least B, or MATH 100 with a grade of at least C. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Justin Chan
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
Surrey
or MACM 101 - Discrete Mathematics I (3)

Introduction to graph theory, trees, induction, automata theory, formal reasoning, modular arithmetic. Prerequisite: BC Math 12 (or equivalent), or any of MATH 100, 150, 151, 154, 157. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Brad Bart
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D201 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D202 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D203 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D204 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D205 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D206 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D207 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D208 Andrei Bulatov
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
Surrey
D301 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Surrey
D302 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Surrey
D303 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D304 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D305 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Surrey
D306 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Surrey
D307 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
D308 Victor Cheung
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey

In addition, students are required to choose one concentration.

Upper Division Requirements

Communication

Students complete five upper division CMNS courses (minimum of 22 upper division units) including

  • CMNS 362 - Evaluation Methods for Applied Communication Research (6)
  • two upper division CMNS courses of the student's choice
  • two upper division CMNS courses from one of the following three groups:

Group One

CMNS 426 - Video Design for Social Communication (4)

This workshop examines the growing role that video is playing in a variety of public relations, industrial, advocacy and educational contexts. The emphasis of this course is on issues of communication design in relation to the goals and values in specific communication forums. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
David Murphy
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
CMNS 428 - Media Analysis Project Group (4)

An advanced workshop in media analysis focused on applied research. This course can be repeated for credit up to a maximum of three times, if topic studied is different. Prerequisite: Two upper division CMNS courses with a minimum grade of C- and permission of the instructor.

CMNS 437 - Media Democratization: From Critique to Transformation (4)

An advanced seminar on the normative debates, social bases, and strategic potential for media democratization in the context of economically developed liberal democracies like Canada and the United States. This course complements other courses which critically examine state communication policies and the political economy and allegedly ideological character of corporate media. Here, we focus on campaigns and movements in civil society to define and build alternative communicative forms based on equality, democratic participation and/or human rights. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00. Students with credit for CMNS 428 or 487 under the same title may not take this course for further credit.

Group Two

CMNS 353 - Topics in Science, Technology and Society (4)

Examination of the emergence and shaping of information and communication technologies and science in the digital age. Explores new media and social change between everyday life, social institutions, and various enterprises. Emphasis is placed on social context and relations of power. This course can be repeated once for credit if second topic is different (up to a maximum of two times). Prerequisite: 17 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 45 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Stephanie Dick
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Peter Chow-White
Online
CMNS 446 - Communication, Science and Technology (4)

Explores the relationship between power, politics, and science; investigates stakeholders such as scientists, entrepreneurs, technologists, activists, policy-makers and their world-wide institutional contexts; compares global flows of science and technology through governmental, non-government, and transnational organizations; examines representations of science and technology in media systems and international development programs. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

CMNS 453 - Issues in the Information Society (4)

Advanced seminar to discuss issues in the interplay between contemporary society and new computer/communication technologies, at the level of comprehensive theories of society, on one hand, and major public policy, on the other. This course can be repeated once for credit if second topic is different (up to a maximum of two times). Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Richard Smith
Online
Peter Chow-White
Online
CMNS 454 - Computer Supported Cooperative Work: Critical Perspectives (4)

Topics will include the content, quality and character of jobs that involve computer supported cooperative work systems, the influence of managerial goals and workplace relations on the design and choice of computer supported cooperative work systems, issues arising in developing and implementing computer supported cooperative work systems, and using data which results from their use. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

CMNS 455W - Feminist Approaches to Science and Technology (4)

Topics include the processes through which gendering of technologies takes place; information and communication technologies (ICTs), gender and public and private spheres; issues related to labour of women and gender minorities in tech sectors; and gender and the use of ICTs in relation to health; as well as the contributions which the study of gender and ICTs have made to theoretical debates within science, technology and society studies. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00. Students with credit for CMNS 455 may not take this course for further credit. Writing.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Caitlin McKinney
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby

Group Three

CMNS 433 - Issues in Communication and Cultural Policy (4)

Advanced seminar on current issues in communication policy. Topics will be selected from among current policy issues in local, national and international aspects of broadcasting, the cultural industries, the arts and heritage. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

CMNS 444 - Political Economy of International Communication (4)

An examination of the domestic and international implications of the development of mass media and telecommunications and the differential impact of the free flow of technology and information. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

CMNS 446 - Communication, Science and Technology (4)

Explores the relationship between power, politics, and science; investigates stakeholders such as scientists, entrepreneurs, technologists, activists, policy-makers and their world-wide institutional contexts; compares global flows of science and technology through governmental, non-government, and transnational organizations; examines representations of science and technology in media systems and international development programs. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.

CMNS 455W - Feminist Approaches to Science and Technology (4)

Topics include the processes through which gendering of technologies takes place; information and communication technologies (ICTs), gender and public and private spheres; issues related to labour of women and gender minorities in tech sectors; and gender and the use of ICTs in relation to health; as well as the contributions which the study of gender and ICTs have made to theoretical debates within science, technology and society studies. Prerequisite: 26 CMNS units with a minimum grade of C- or 60 units with a minimum CGPA of 2.00. Students with credit for CMNS 455 may not take this course for further credit. Writing.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Caitlin McKinney
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby

Directed study and field placement courses may not be used to meet this requirement.

Interactive Arts and Technology

SIAT Concentrations

A concentration is a group of related courses that approved IAT joint majors must pursue within their degree. Including concentration courses, joint majors must complete 20 units of upper division IAT units.

Students may complete more than one concentration. All completed concentrations will be recognized on their transcript. All upper division (300 and 400-level) concentration courses must be completed at Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV.

Creative Media

In the creative media concentration, students gain skills in emergent areas such as narrative, interactivity, video, sound design, motion capture, visual effects and immersive technologies to tackle meaningful and critically-engaged stories, preparing them for further work in graduate studies or careers in entertainment, film, media arts, and software media industries.

Students who choose this concentration complete the following courses:

IAT 313 - Narrative and New Media (3)

Explores the role of narrative in various media and New Media environments, from traditional linear environments and multi-linear and networked media environments. Examines the relationship of narrative elements in the light of the practice and the aesthetics of New Media. It will include an overview of New Media theorists. Prerequisite: Completion of 48 units.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 340 - Sound Design (3)

Introduction to theory and practice of sound design. Explores sound's relationship to moving images, installation, performance, video games, user interfaces and Web sites. Includes audio production, post-production, mixing and mastering, beginning programming for digital signal processing, sound synthesis and sound interaction. Prerequisite: Completion of 24 units. Recommended: IAT 202 New Media Images.

IAT 344 - Moving Images (4)

Reviews and consolidates the fundamentals of digital video production, including camera and composition skills, the role of sound, lighting, and continuity and montage editing. Students will review and analyze works from traditional cinema and from contemporary digital video. The course will reinforce fundamental skills and extend the student's abilities to use a range of digital production, post-production, and presentation techniques. Prerequisite: Minimum of 48 units and IAT 202 with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 3:00–4:50 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 443 - Senior Project in Creative Media (6)

A senior level investigation of skills and knowledge learned across creative media concentration. Examines recombinant, computational and compositional structures related to image, sound, video and/or motion capture. Students will explore emergent creative production areas to tackle meaningful problems and tell thoughtful stories. They will design, produce and critically appraise both their own work and the work of others. Students will produce a project of significant size and scope that helps to prepare students to be creative producers in our rapidly evolving computer-mediated world. Prerequisite: Completion of 60 units, including IAT 313, IAT 340, and IAT 344, with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Susan Clements-Vivian
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey

Designing Interactions

Designing interactions develops competencies in interaction design, speculative design and user experience design. Projects develop problem-solving capabilities rigorously tested by critique after framing and research for interventions for people and communities. The role of the designer is explored in a range of contexts. Projects range from screen-based to tangible artifacts, products and services.

Students who choose this concentration complete the following courses:

IAT 333 - Interaction Design Methods (4)

Examines concepts of design practice and related design methods for interaction designers. Design methods include ethnography, personas, design games, role-playing, scenarios, participatory workshops, and prototyping. Prerequisite: Completion of 48 units, including IAT 238 with a minimum grade of C- or IAT 235 with a minimum grade of C- completed before the Spring 2025 term.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Ron Wakkary
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 431 - Speculative Design (4)

Provides students with the opportunity to experiment with designing in various non-normative frameworks provided by cultural studies, critical theory and phenomenology. Students will examine design's potential for cultural, social and ethical critique of emerging technologies and society. Rather than merely illustrating theoretical positions, this examination involves enacting and embodying differing theoretical positions, thereby rendering criticism productive. Individual design expertise and voice is emphasized. Prerequisite: Completion of 60 units, including IAT 309W and IAT 333, with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Ron Wakkary
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 8:30–11:20 a.m.
Surrey
IAT 438 - User Experience Design (6)

Advanced level course that examines design practice for Interaction and User Experience Designers. Students apply professional industry standards to related strategies from Graphic Design, Visual Design, Interaction Design, Content Strategy and User Interface Design, to develop a rich understanding of client-based product design and service design projects. Portfolio-quality projects will be grounded in design research, and cultural context, and evaluated in rigorous evidence-based design critiques. Prerequisite: Completion of 75 units, including IAT 309W and 333, with a minimum grade of C-.

Extended Reality and Game Design

The XR and game design concentration provides a blend of technical, theoretical, and practical skills in diverse areas of extended reality and game design. Students learn to create compelling gaming and immersive experiences, apply user-centered design, manage projects, work collaboratively, communicate effectively, and engage in critical thinking and ethical practices.

Students who choose this concentration complete the following courses:

IAT 312 - Foundations of Game Design (4)

Examines the discipline of game design. Games are studied across three analytical frameworks: games as rules (formal system), games as play (experiential system), games as culture (social system). Includes analytical and practical exercises in game design. Prerequisite: Completion of 48 units, including IAT 265 with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Yingchen Yang
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 4:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 343 - Animation (4)

An introduction to techniques for 3D computer animation such as keyframing, performance animation, procedural methods, motion capture, and simulation. The course also includes an overview of story-boarding, scene composition, lighting and sound track generation. The course will explore current research topics in computer animation such as facial animation, behavioral animation, artificial life and interactive systems. Prerequisite: Minimum of 24 units, including MATH 130 or MACM 101 or MATH 150 or MATH 151 or MATH 154 or MATH 157, with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Steve DiPaola
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Steve DiPaola
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D103 Steve DiPaola
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
D104 Steve DiPaola
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 410 - Advanced Game Design (4)

Students will design and develop a variety of electronic games, culminating in an advanced game project. They will continue to analyze the experience of play within the game, and the connections between the game experience and broader cultural phenomena. Prerequisite: Completion of 60 units, including IAT 265 and IAT 312, with a minimum grade of C-.

IAT 445 - Immersive Environments (4)

Introduces advanced 3D computer animation and virtual world building techniques. Integrates hands-on fundamentals with design praxis and theoretical and research concerns. Fundamentals are complemented with examples from current research and design praxis. The studio aspect of the course will include assignments focusing on specific animation and behaviour modeling techniques and a team-based design project. Prerequisite: Completion of 60 units, including IAT 343 with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Bernhard Riecke
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Bernhard Riecke
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 4:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Bernhard Riecke
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey

AI and Data Science for Human-Centered Systems

This concentration is aimed to teach students the skills to extract insights from data, design and build AI systems for interactive technologies, data-driven decision-making, and computer assisted creativity. It emphasizes applying human-centered computing principles and ethical considerations to AI and data science to design, evaluate and deploy state-of-the-art interactive systems.

Students who choose this concentration complete the following courses:

IAT 355 - Introduction to Visual Analytics (3)

Focuses on the design and implementation of interactive computer visualization techniques for the analysis, comprehension, and explanation of large collections of abstract information. The application of principles from perception, information visualization, interaction and visual analytics will be covered. Introduces tools for programming geometric information and displaying the results. Emphasizes development of practical skills in using graphics libraries and tools: students will develop programming experience with relevant examples and techniques. Prerequisite: IAT 201 and IAT 267 and either IAT 265 or CMPT 225, all with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: IAT 235.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Christopher Shaw
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, Thu, 4:30–5:50 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 360 - Exploring Artificial Intelligence: Its Use, Concepts, and Impact (3)

Designed to provide a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the world of artificial intelligence that will empower the students to navigate the AI-driven future. Students will explore fundamental AI concepts, including machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, and computer vision; discover real-world applications, ethical considerations, and the societal impact of AI. Prerequisite: CMPT 120, IAT 265, and IAT 267, all with a minimum grade of C-. CMPT 310 will be accepted in lieu of this course.

IAT 460 - Generative AI and Computational Creativity (4)

Proposes an in-depth introduction to design and use of generative systems in the context of creative practices. It surveys the families of algorithms and interfaces used in generative artificial intelligence (Al) and computational creativity, to augment or automate creative tasks across domains. Prerequisite: IAT 360. Students with credit for IAT 380 under the title "Generative Art and Computational Creativity", or received credit through Kadenze, may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Philippe Pasquier
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Philippe Pasquier
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Philippe Pasquier
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–6:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 461 - Data Science for Human-Centered Systems (4)

Analytical approaches examining user interaction data to understand how interactive systems meet their users' goals are covered. The data preprocessing techniques, feature engineering for summative and temporal characteristics, statistical, data mining and machine learning techniques used to derive insights are compared, focusing on their benefits and pitfalls. Prerequisite: IAT 355 and IAT 360, both with a minimum grade of C-.

Design and Development for Web and Mobile

This concentration provides students with the theories, tools and methods for developing digital applications for the web and mobile. There is a heavy focus on modern development practices, accessibility considerations and creating applications tailored to meet the unique needs of the target audience while considering the context of use.

Students who choose this concentration complete the following courses:

IAT 339 - Web Design and Development (3)

Advanced theory and implementation of web media from a design perspective. Students will design and develop web media that focuses on communication and design issues for a variety of users. This course will address design methods and approaches for technical aspects such as content management, responsive design, and server-side support. Prerequisite: IAT 235 and IAT 265, with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Helmine Serban
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
Surrey
D101 Helmine Serban
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Helmine Serban
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 359 - Mobile Computing (4)

An introduction to mobile computing and the development of applications for mobile environments. The three areas that will be covered in the course are mobile technologies, application development and user interaction in a mobile setting. Students will make use of mobile application frameworks and development environments to develop their own application and project, while reinforcing concepts covered in the lectures. Topics covered include mobile development environments, user interfaces, user experience and application development guidelines, gesture recognition, location, sensors, and graphics, and others, as will be outlined in the weekly schedule. Prerequisite: Completion of 48 units, including IAT 265 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CMPT 362 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Helmine Serban
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
Surrey
D101 Helmine Serban
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Helmine Serban
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 1:00–2:50 p.m.
Surrey
IAT 459 - Internet Computing Technologies (4)

Focuses on the server-side technologies for cross-platform applications. Students will design and implement relational databases to store and extract data to support the application. Server-client and service oriented architectures are examined from the perspective of building interactive systems. Technologies for the deployment of web applications on the internet are reviewed. Students apply conceptual knowledge by programming a web application using server-side scripting, AJAX, and a database, integrating it with the web or mobile front-end. Prerequisite: Completion of 48 units, including IAT 339 and IAT 359, with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for IAT 352 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Marek Hatala
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Surrey
D101 Marek Hatala
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 3:00–4:50 p.m.
Surrey
D102 Marek Hatala
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 5:00–6:50 p.m.
Surrey

Faculty of Communication, Art and Technology Degree Requirements

For more information, please refer to the Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV Degree Requirements.

Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements

Students admitted to Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements for university-wide information.

WQB Graduation Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required to earn W, Q or B credit

Requirement

Units

Notes
W - Writing

6

Must include at least one upper division course, taken at Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV within the student's major subject; two courses (minimum three units each)

Q - Quantitative

6

Q courses may be lower or upper division; two courses (total six units or more)
B - Breadth

18

Designated Breadth

Must be outside the student's major subject, and may be lower or upper division:

Two courses (total six units or more) Social Sciences: B-Soc
Two courses (total six units or more) Humanities: B-Hum
Two courses (total six units or more) Sciences: B-Sci

6

Additional Breadth

Two courses (total six units or more) outside the student's major subject (may or may not be B-designated courses, and will likely help fulfil individual degree program requirements).

Students choosing to complete a joint major, joint honours, double major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor, or two minors may satisfy the breadth requirements (designated or not designated) with courses completed in either one or both program areas.

Residency Requirements and Transfer Credit

  • At least half of the program's total units must be earned through Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV study.
  • At least two thirds of the program's total upper division units must be earned through Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV study.

Elective Courses

In addition to the courses listed above, students should consult an academic advisor to plan the remaining required elective courses.