Computer Graphics Elective Modules

This module introduces an array of digital modeling, sculpting, and painting techniques with a set of industry standard 3D and 2D tools. After a series of exercises, students learn the tools and work flow of digital sculpting and enhance their knowledge of anatomy. As part of this class, students create a highly finished 3D character that is fully designed, modelled, posted, sculpted and textured. They also demonstrate knowledge of environmental sculpting.

This course provides practical experience with the game asset development and integration pipeline within a game engine, Unreal Engine. The course will walk through the basic steps from creating an empty project to playable effects within a simple environment. Topics include importing and placing assets, texture and shader process and development, animation workflows, lighting, visual scripting, and the use of particles systems for VFX.

This module focuses on using procedural techniques to generate accurate texture maps efficiently. Students will explore UV mapping, unwrapping, physically-based rendering ( PBR ) shaders, use of photo reference, manipulation, compositing and other techniques to create complex textures. Students will learn how to render the final outcome using the industry-standard game engine, Unreal Engine.

This module serves as an introduction to fundamental scripting within industry-standard 3D software (Autodesk Maya 3D) using Python. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of essential software functions and learn to create custom user interfaces to optimize workflow. Students will be encouraged to use AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) throughout the course for brainstorming, debugging, and refining ideas. The curriculum covers scripting concepts within the application, focusing on tool creation through scripting to automate repetitive processes and enhance work efficiency. Upon successful completion of the module, students will possess the skills to develop tools for problem-solving technical challenges and improving overall work efficiency.

This module examines the unique problems of creating graphics for games, and it teaches effective production techniques for addressing these issues.