Interior Design Program -Rafik Hariri University

Interior Design Program

Total Credits

111

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Courses

University Requirements

ICT Competency (3 cr.)

INDS 220 - Computer Design I 3

This course is an introduction to the principles and uses of computer-aided drafting and design using the most recent version of the AutoCAD software. Students will acquire the technical skills needed to draft 2D architectural plans, sections, elevations, and details. In addition, students will learn computer-rendering techniques using Adobe Photoshop.

Quantitative reasoning (3 cr.)

INDS 325 - Lighting & Mechanics 3

This course is a comprehensive study of the principles and theories of both lighting systems and mechanics. Students will learn about the applications of lighting design, lighting specifications, in-depth lighting mathematical calculations, available equipment and fixtures and aesthetic considerations needed to complete installation. Additionally, students will become familiar with different types of heating, ventilation, Ac systems, their installation, design considerations and needs, in addition to plumbing and sanitary systems. Prerequisite: INDS 315.

Community Forethought (3 cr.)

INDS 335 - Design Issues and Sustainability 3

This course investigates theoretical and philosophical constructs and design issues related to the study of interior architecture and design. It focuses on the examination of the philosophical and practical principles of sustainable design through exploration of environmental issues, sustainable materials and methods, and professional practice. Students will develop awareness of the implications of design decisions upon the environment and will gain a foundation for evaluation of materials, processes and practices according to the principles of sustainable and environmentally responsible design.

Communication Competency (6 cr.)

ENGL 210 - English Composition and Rhetoric 3

This course reinforces effective critical reading and writing skills with emphasis on writing documented essays for academic purposes in a varying range of rhetorical modes. More specifically, the student will apply the fundamental principles of English spelling, word usage, grammar, punctuation and style necessary for written communication; write academic essays; proofread and edit a variety of texts; analyze general texts for coherence, style and accuracy in writing; read critically from a variety of discourse modes; summarize, paraphrase and quote sources properly; and cite sources according to APA form. Prerequisite: None. Every semester.

ENGL 217 - Professional English Writing 3

This course is designed to enhance students’ professional writing skills. It is tailored to students pursuing careers in the professions and includes advanced business writing and editing, correspondence, critical review, writing professional reports and proposals, and making oral presentations. Prerequisite: ENGL 210. Every Semester.

Humanities/Fine Arts (6 cr.)

ENGL 203 - Introduction to English Drama 3

This course is a study of selected and representative plays of different periods. Added to broadening the student’s understanding and appreciation of literature, The chief aim of the course is to develop the student’s critical thinking and analysis and to encourage original responses to literary expression in well-developed oral and written criticism. Co-requisite: English 210.

ENGL 213 - Creative Writing 3

This course introduces students to the process and practice of imaginative writing. Students will read works of fiction, creative nonfiction and poetry, and will learn techniques for writing in those genres.

ENGL 214 - Introduction to English Poetry 3

This course introduces freshman students to poets whose poetry is of intrinsic literary merit. In addition to broadening the students’ understanding and appreciation of literature, the chief aim of the course is to develop the student’s critical thinking and analysis and to encourage original responses to literary expression in well-developed oral and written criticism. Co-requisite: English 210.

ENGL 215 - Introduction to American Literature 3

This is a course which explores the works of major literary figures and authors representing different literary schools from the sixteenth century to modern times. Students will closely examine selected texts as literary achievements and set them within the historical context and framework of American culture. Co-requisite: English 210.

ENGL 220 - Introduction to Literature 3

This course is an introduction to literature through works of fiction, poetry, and drama. It introduces students to the pleasures of reading literature and to interpretative approaches to literature. It aims to provide students with competence in critical thinking and practice in close reading and analysis, knowledge of the formal characteristics of each genre, and appreciation of literary excellence. Readings include a variety of short stories, poems and plays selected from a wide range of British, American and World literature. Co-requisite: English 210.

ENGL 230 - Shakespeare’s Plays 3

In this course, students study representative comedies, histories, and tragedies by Shakespeare. The plays are read intensively and understood in the context of the theatrical conventions of the period and the culture of play going in early modern England, as well as the social, cultural, religious, and intellectual history of the period. Co-requisite: English 210.

FADR 215 - History of Art 3

This course explores the major forms of artistic expression from the ancient world to the present from a variety of cultural perspectives. Students learn how to look at and analyze works of art within their historical context, and how to articulate what they see or experience in a meaningful way. This course covers Pre- Renaissance, Renaissance, Post Renaissance and the rich layers of 19th and 20th Century Modern Art up until the manifestations of our present day.

HIST 210 - History of England 3

This broad survey course provides a narrative of British history from 1066 through the present, including political, social and cultural developments. Prerequisite: ENGL 210.

HIST 350 - History of the Arabs in the Classical Period 3

This is an elective course whose major objectives are to familiarize students with the Arab peoples’ history. The course’s emphasis will be to explain: The early Arab conquests of Bilad al-Sham, Egypt, Persia, North Africa, the internal civil strife inside the early Muslim community, the emergence and development of the Umayyad caliphate, and the emergence and development of the Abbasid Empire. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

HIST 360 - Contemporary History 3

This is an elective course whose major objectives are to familiarize students with contemporary issues in order to enhance their level from historical and cultural points of view. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

HIST 365 - History of Europe in the Middle East 3

This course examines the ties between Europe and the Middle East in the 19th and 20th centuries, focusing on the reaction of Middle Eastern societies to European intervention and influence. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

HIST 370 - The Economic and Social History of the Middle East 3

This is an elective course whose main objective is to familiarize students with various events that shaped the evolution of social and economic developments of the Middle East to enhance their level from the historical and economical dimensions. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PHIL 301 - Major Trends in Philosophy 3

This is a study of some major topics in philosophy. The course emphasizes theory of knowledge, theory of mind, determinism and free will, and morality and ethical values. Along with some assigned readings, students will watch movies, the analysis of which will help them comprehend the content of the course better. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PHIL 302 - Introduction to Formal Logic 3

This course is a standard introduction to the formal techniques of argument analysis. Formal logic was invented to mirror and evaluate mathematical reasoning; however, this course will concentrate on the relationship between formal logic and everyday reasoning and consequently language usage in general. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PHIL 303 - Introduction to Ethics 3

People often wonder about what makes good ways to live and right ways to act. They also speculate about what is the best way of life, what action is right, and what sort of authority moral claims have over us. The course introduces students to the major moral theories and thinkers that address these types of questions. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PHIL 307 - Business Ethics 3

This course is an introduction to contemporary philosophical thinking on ethical issues in business. Students will be exposed to important ethical issues they might face; asked to give sound ethical judgment to problems they might face in their line of work; helped become armed with a set of codes that will prepare them to confront and resolve ethical dilemmas they might encounter at work; and enabled to apply the techniques for analyzing and resolving ethical problems when they arise Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PHIL 310 - Philosophers of Peace 3

This course introduces students to peace building and conflict prevention through the examination of the main theories on peace and security. It examines ideas of Thucydides, Aristotle, Erasmus Grotius, Kant, Gandhi and other thinkers for whole peace was a high value. It develops students’ critical skills and understanding necessary to translate their academic learning to specific practical situations, such those posed by peace building either with the UN, governments, or NGOs. It helps to understand the complex and interconnected challenges to peace and provides knowledge to meet these challenges. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

Social Sciences/Culture (6 cr.)

CMNS 301 - Mass Media Essentials 3

This course aims to familiarize students with the concepts and vocabulary used in various fields of communication, understanding the development of mass communication in political, economic, social, and cultural contexts. The course addresses media’s influence on society and societal influence in shaping the news process, advertising, and public relations. Students are introduced to media-related research methods. Co-requisite: English 210.

CMNS 310 - Persuasion 3

Through reading, writing and speech, students will become familiar with the persuasive strategy described in Aristotle’s Rhetoric, and consider how that strategy can be employed in professional and personal situations in writing, public speaking and negotiation. Co-requisite: English 210.

CMNS 320 - Creative Nonfiction 3

In this course students will learn rhetorical modes in short essays and journalism, including memoir, reportage and reflective essays. Students will practice a writing style that focuses on conciseness and clarity, effective oral presentations, and the reading of articles, essays and other materials of increasing complexity. Co-requisite: English 210.

CMNS 330 - Arab and International Media 3

This course offers students a comparative study of international media, with particular focus on the media in Arab countries, including mass media and social media. Co-requisite: English 210.

CMNS 340 - Media and Public Relations Writing 3

This introductory-level course is designed to develop and strengthen general writing skills, and to help students learn the formats and conventions of media and public relations writing, including newspapers, magazines, web and interactive media, advertising copy, press releases, talking points, media alerts, public service announcements, newsletters and social media. It also addresses ethical issues related to writing in these fields. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

CMNS 350 - Mass and Digital Communication Ethics 3

This course addresses the ethical problems that arise in the fields of journalism, public relations and advertising, particularly in today’s digital media environment. Prerequisite: CMNS 301.

CMNS 401 - Peace Communication: Media and Conflict Resolution 3

This course integrates methods, perspectives and concepts of Peace Studies, Culture Communication and Peace Journalism to explain contemporary debates in the global public sphere. It considers how cultural stereotypes about ideology, religion and culture frame Arabs and Americans in the mass media. RHU students will engage with students from collaborating universities in the United States in online, asynchronous conversation and participate in shared projects that explore the role of the media in influencing Arab and American relations. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

CMNS 410 - Public Speaking 3

This course is designed to provide both a practical introduction to the fundamental principles of public speaking and a forum for practicing public speaking skills. Through a variety of instructional strategies (discussion, class workshops, readings, lectures, and presentations), students will learn the processes by which effective speeches are conceived, prepared and delivered. Through practice, students’ confidence in their public speaking ability will increase; principles of effective public speaking will be internalized; existing speaking skills will be reinforced and areas for improvement identified; and effective aspects of speech preparation and delivery in a variety of speech contexts demonstrated. Co-requisite: English 210.

CVLN 303 - Civilization Studies III 3

This course surveys some of the key figures, movements, and texts in cultural studies, from 19th century up to the present time. Concentration will be on the historical, political, religious, cultural, and institutional aspects during this period. Students will read, analyze, and interpret certain primary works in order to gain insight into the contexts in which they originated. Co-requisite: English 210.

EDUC 211 - Fundamentals of Special Education 3

This course provides an introduction to Special Education, particularly addressing current practices. Students are introduced to common learning disabilities and intervention programs, as well as an historical overview of the development of the field of Special Education.

EDUC 360 - Children’s Literature 3

This course draws on the theoretical and practical aspects of the study of literature for children. Students develop both wide familiarity with children's books, and understanding of how children's literature fits into the elementary school curriculum.

EDUC 365 - Art Education 3

This course explores concepts of art, music, drama, and movement for young children. The various methods are used to cover various activities associated with the development of children's physical-motor, social-emotional, and cognitive skills, with providing conditions to develop creativity and aesthetic awareness.

EDUC 415 - Factors in Student Motivation 3

This course will examine motivational factors which influence children’s learning. Topics include attribution theory, teacher influences (expectancy effects), learning structures (competitive vs. cooperative learning), family influences (the socialization of achievement), cultural influences (how cultural background impacts on college performance), and individual differences (intrinsic motivation and sex differences in learning).

ENGL 207 - Introduction to Language 3

This survey course examines current areas in theoretical and applied linguistics including the different levels of structure, the nature of language acquisition, language variation and evolution, and language teaching.

ENGL 300 - Introduction to World Literature 3

The course surveys selected works in English or in translation from non-Anglo American cultural traditions. Texts can be drawn from African, Asian, European, Latin American and Middle Eastern literatures with a focus on their historical and cultural contexts. Prerequisite: ENGL 210.

ENGL 330 - Language Acquisition 3

This course will survey language acquisition theories. It will deal with human language processing, learners’ motivational factors and contextual factors which influence language learning. It will uncover the principles of language acquisition.

PSYC 301 - Introduction to Psychology 3

This course is an introduction to the theories, concepts, and viewpoints that comprise the discipline of psychology. The course is directed toward the understanding of human behavior by dealing with such topics as history of psychology, learning, personality, behavior, motivation, perception, and social psychology, mental health as well as other areas. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PSYC 302 - Social Psychology 3

This course is a study of the dynamics and effects of social influences on individual human behavior. In this course, students will explore such topics as attitude changes, social beliefs, roles, conformity to group processes, and prejudices with special attention given to the Middle Eastern perspective. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PSYC 303 - Psychology of Personality 3

This course presents the theories of personality including psychoanalytic, behaviorist, humanist, and others, while considering different factors that shape personality and behavior. The study includes methods of assessing personality. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PSYC 306 - Psychology of Women 3

This course examines the biological, sociological and cultural influences on the psychology of women. It includes such topics as gender stereotypes, the development of gender roles, gender comparisons, women and work, love relations, women’s physical and mental health, violence against women, and women in later adulthood. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PSYC 310 - Positive Psychology 3

This course examines the scientific research on happiness and its practical application in three main areas: positive emotions, positive individual traits and positive institutions. This course also presents practical ways to promote and maintain a sense of well-being and happiness in all aspects of one’s life. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PSYC 312 - Children and War 3

This course is intended to help students be aware about the consequences of war and conflicts on the mental health and well-being of children. The course will examine a variety of effects, emphasizing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological conditions that result from war. The course will empower the students with the techniques of working with children affected by war. Prerequisite: None; Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PSYC 400 - Conflict Transformation 3

This course explores practical theories for understanding congregational conflict, as well as various perspectives on conflict transformation. Students will engage in reflection on their own styles of dealing with conflict and learn new ways of responding. They will explore practices of dialogue and mediation for addressing conflict interpersonal, small group and congregational settings with the goal of developing an approach to addressing inevitable situations of difference, change and conflict in a variety of situations. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

PSYC 410 - Abnormal Psychology 3

An introduction to the theories of abnormal behaviors, including addiction and substance abuse, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, phobias, schizophrenia and sexual disorders. Students will consider theoretical implications of and treatments for a range of abnormal behavior.

SOCI 210 - Research Methods in the Social Sciences 3

This course is designed for students majoring in psychology, sociology, communications and other social sciences fields. It introduces them to advanced research design and methodology, including statistical analysis. Prerequisite: MATH 220.

SOCI 301 - Introduction to Sociology 3

This course explores a variety of sociological theories and approaches to understanding society. The student will learn about human social life, groups, and societies and will be helped to detect the social influences that shape our lives. The approach used in this course is self-exploratory process that develops individual and social awareness. A secondary objective is discussing methods common to sociology, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, and feminism. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

SOCI 304 - Introduction to Educational Sociology 3

This course introduces the study of sociological concepts as they apply to the institution of education. Students will examine issues of race, class, status, poverty and bureaucracy in the educational setting. They will also examine current perspectives and research about the social aspects of the learning process.

SOCI 310 - Intercultural Communication 3

This course deals with cultural issues like cultural awareness, enculturation, acculturation and cultural shocks. In this course, students are provided with hands-on activities that promote cultural awareness and equip students with skills for dealing with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. An important part of this course is students’ group research and presentation that reflect all the cultural aspects and some minute details of the culture that they choose to work on. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

SOCI 313 - Interpersonal Communication 3

Students in this course examine communication theory and case studies in order to gain insight into the factors that affect human communications. It aims to improve students’ communication skills and effectiveness, and give them skills that will enhance the quality of their relationships. The course also offers strategies for managing interpersonal conflicts. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

SOCI 340 - Arab Culture and Society 3

This course examines contemporary Arab society, considering its social structures and groups, cultural patterns, and other aspects of the society. Students consider current issues related to Arab culture and society. Prerequisite: SOCI 301.

SOCI 410 - Culture and Identity 3

This course analyzes the role of culture in an individual’s sense of identity, with an emphasis on how it manifests in the Middle East. Prerequisite: SOCI 301.

SOCI 420 - Social Inequalities 3

The course addresses issues such as class, status, and gender inequalities, examining how they affect individuals and society. Prerequisite: SOCI 301.

SOCI 302 - Political Sociology 3

This course tackles the social issues pertaining to the historical and contemporary evolution of various political ideologies. It aims at developing students’ understanding of the social bases of politics and political ideologies along with the recent changes in the socio-political world. Different economic and political philosophies are considered and their effects on the fate of nations and their citizens detected. Co-requisite: ENGL 210.

Program Requirements

Business requirements (3 cr.)

BMKT 200 - Introduction to Marketing 3

This course introduces the basic principles, theories, and practices of marketing in our modern ever-changing business environment. The course covers the marketing process activities on how to create value for customers to capture value from customers in return. It also discusses the marketing mix and how to build long-term customer relationship with customers. Students will analyze case studies about a “real-life” product or service. Videos and in-class discussions on current marketing topics will assist in the learning experience.

Co-requisite.: ENGL 210

Mandatory requirements (51 cr.)

INDS 203 - Introduction to Interior Design 3

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and terminology of interior design through the exploration of basic elements and principles in the field. It focuses on the analysis of space, form and order and its relation to the study and practice of interior design theory and human factors. Students will learn how to develop a design process in order to evaluate and understand existing structures; as well as, increase their technical skills to sketch and actualize their ideas. This course also offers an understanding of the occupational opportunities and the responsibilities of the profession. It is a theoretical and practical course that includes projects as a method of artistic creation. Prerequisite: INDS 222.

INDS 230 - Photography I 3

This course teaches students the basic principles of digital photography as well as the utilization of photography as a means of documentation for design projects and portfolio pieces. It is a lecture-based course with extensive hands on practical training that covers the basic principles for lighting and setup. Students will learn how to develop an eye for taking pictures of 2D and 3D objects. They will also enhance their knowledge about the different parts of a camera and the mechanism of printing and developing films while continuously scanning other photographers from contemporary and historical scenes.

INDS 245 - History of Architecture & Interior Design 3

This course covers the evolution of architecture, interiors, furniture and design from antiquity till present. It includes style developments, significant structures, important contributors as well as the social, political and cultural background. Prerequisite: FADR 215.

INDS 300 - Color Theory 3

This course explores the power of color and its effect on human experience. The basic elements and principles of color are tackled in order to develop the ability to perceive, express and apply color in design contexts. Students will learn how to choose the appropriate color schemes and combinations for each design project.

INDS 310 - Design Studio I: Residential Spaces 3

This studio course focuses on space utilization and organization of residential interior spaces; as well as highlights the importance of integrating the theories of human behavior into the design plan. Students will analyze and understand residential spaces (living spaces, kitchens, bathrooms and support spaces) through projects that include research, concept development, sketching, space planning and design exploration. Students will also acquire knowledge in preparing residential boards, developing their problem-solving skills and enhancing their verbal presentation techniques. Prerequisite: INDS 203.

INDS 311 - Design Studio II: Commercial Spaces 3

This studio course focuses on space utilization and organization of public and commercial spaces; as well as, highlights the effect of human interaction and visual impact on spatial environments. Students will analyze and understand public and commercial spaces (business, medical, restaurant, hospitality and retail environments) through projects that include research, concept development, sketching, space planning, and design exploration. Through this process, students will be able to investigate spaces, analyze user needs, propose appropriate building and decoration materials and initiate creative solutions to spatial problems while considering cultural, social and aesthetic values. Prerequisite: INDS 310.

INDS 315 - Methods of Construction & Building Technology 3

This course is an overview study of the methods and materials utilized in construction, installation and design of structural and environmental support systems. Students will learn to apply the underlying technical requirements for building systems (mechanical, electrical thermal and moisture protection and fire detection) and how they impact interior design decisions and construction drawings. They will also learn how to evaluate building sites, write surveys, review technical drawings and specifications, estimate budgets and apply the best practices and most efficient materials. In addition, students will explore the implications of design realities, material capabilities, construction tolerances and code limitations and regulations in the construction process. Prerequisite: INDS 203.

INDS 320 - Digital Rendering for Interior Design 3

In this course, students will learn to use a variety of professional level computer rendering software programs (AutoCAD, 3D Studio Max, Sketch Up and Adobe Photoshop) to enhance their ability to produce realistic illustrations of 3-dimensional models. It focuses on the production of detailed drawings that accurately represent materiality and spatial quality through realistic lighting and environmental influences. Students will also learn to use computer modeling and rendering as a tool to investigate and evaluate design solutions as part of the design process. Prerequisite: INDS 222.

INDS 330 - Furniture Design 3

This course gives an insight into the history of furniture design as well as covers the various construction methods and techniques used in the creation of custom-designed furnishings. Students will acquire the skills needed to design and build furniture that reflect contemporary trends through the exploration of various materials and textiles. Concept, function, form, and materiality are explored through projects and workshops. Prerequisite: INDS 315.

INDS 340 - Textiles, Materials & Finishes 3

This course looks into the ways in which interior textiles, materials and surface design change the spaces around us. Students explore various materials as well as construction techniques, finishes, consumer protection and textile specifications for residential and non-residential end-users. The designer’s responsibility as related to consumer health, safety and welfare is also explored. Students are required to collect a database for textiles and materials. Prerequisite: INDS 311.

INDS 399 - Co-op Training Experience 1

Each student must complete 8 weeks of practical training in an area related to his/her field of interest. This Co-op work experience is usually fulfilled during the summer term of the third year into the program. Students are required to submit a formal report, and/or poster, and make a formal presentation about their Co-op experience. Prerequisite: ENGL 217 and Senior Standing.

INDS 411 - Design Studio III: Space, Practicality & Ethics 3

This course aims at preparing students for the real-life through projects that reveal the various technical and creative considerations that should be looked into. Limitations and restrictions of projects such as client needs, municipal codes & regulations, and others are explored in order to present a clear image of work. Concept development and an understanding of intricate spatial and programmatic requirements are achieved. Students also investigate moving spaces, which are mobile, deployable and compact. Prerequisite: INDS 311.

INDS 412 - Design Studio IV 3

This course focuses on the full development of the concept proposal written in the senior project proposal course. The senior project should be a comprehensive design, a complete set of architectural drawings, selected details, 3D renderings, and a presentation model. The Senior Project is intended to prepare the student for the demands of the professional market. Prerequisite: INDS 411.

INDS 415 - Senior Project Proposal 3

In this course, students will research and develop an advanced conceptual framework to inform the direction of the design and presentation of their senior project. It focuses on the development of a comprehensive design concept that is integrated theoretically and spatially through the preliminary development of schematic diagrams and sketches, architectural drawings and a presentation model. Students will investigate a selected topic in the field of interior design and will conduct an extensive research to propose a final project and present a proper academic paper. Prerequisite: INDS 311; Co-req: INDS 411.

INDS 420 - Exhibition Design 3

This course focuses on the essential technical and professional knowledge and skills needed to create exhibition and conference spaces that effectively disseminate information and content to the public. Exhibition design is based on the psychology of the audience; therefore thinking and behavior have significant impact on the design process. Students learn booth, installation and space layout design; as well as visual communication, lighting and integration of high-tech products. Prerequisite: INDS 311.

INDS 425 - Professional Practice 3

This course prepares students for office practices and design project management. Students are introduced to the business aspect of the design practice that includes contract documents, associated legal aspects, marketing strategies, professional ethics, staff personnel practices and career planning. Financing, cost-estimate and budgeting are also explored. Students by the end of this course will develop an effective portfolio that has impact in the work field. Prerequisite: INDS 411.

INDS 430 - Product Design 2

This studio course teaches students to design interior objects while considering form and functionality. The spatial relationship between humans and their environment as well as physical and psychological human factors will be examined to produce products that answer to consumers. Students will learn the product design process, including style, concept, mindset, tradition, culture, and products’ meanings and symbols. Prerequisite: INDS 320.

Fine Arts Requirements (18 cr.)

FADR 200 - Drawing I 3

This course is a comprehensive introduction to the art of drawing. Students learn how to represent accurately and proportionally objects, planes, and volumes by developing hand-to-eye coordination with lines, shades and tones; as well as, wet and dry media. The course introduces a wide range of drawing techniques, composition principles, perspective basics and various media to prepare students with the essential ingredients needed to grow in the design field. Drawing enhances the student’s active seeing, visual language and sketching techniques. Students will draw from life and on location geometric shapes, still objects, living objects as well as moving objects.

FADR 202 - Drawing II 3

This drawing course focuses on teaching students the basics of drawing the human figure by studying the human anatomy and its proportions. It emphasizes the use of the human figure in space as a compositional element. Students will explore the potential and limits of media and materials. Drawing on location will be a key feature in this course to enhance the student’s spontaneous aspect of immediate drawing. Students will begin to form a personal approach to drawing and even develop a personal drawing/illustrating style. Prerequisite: FADR 200.

FADR 210 - Rendering & Perspective Techniques 3

This course introduces students to perspective techniques in the rendering of three- dimensional objects, and scenes on two-dimensional surfaces. Students learn how to apply perspective drawing, composition and conceptualization as a means of developing visual communication skills. Design, composition, light rendering and perspective are explored to enhance the students drawing and rendering techniques.

FADR 215 - History of Art 3

FADR 220 - Fundamentals of 2D 3

This course focuses on the student's visual awareness through an introduction to the fundamentals of 2-D design elements, which include: line, texture, pattern, tone, form, color, light, partial illusion, balance and proportion. Students explore and experiment with design principles such as repetition, variety, emphasis and movement. This course broadens the understanding of compositional devices, dynamics and methods. It also aims at developing a clear understanding of visual organization, shape interaction and color theory.

FADR 222 - Fundamentals of 3D 3

This course is an extension of two-dimensional design concepts into volumetric relationships emphasizing design concepts through structural and sculptural form. 3D design seeks to expand the student’s understanding of design theory as it relates to a 3 dimensional world. Students will work in various media including paper, cardboard, wood, wires, metal and plaster to explore concepts of modularity, sequence and series, relief, contour, structure, symmetry and asymmetry as they relate to the study of forms in nature. Students will also examine the function of space, volume, mass, plane, and line. The main emphasis of this course is the development of critical thinking skills, technical skills and visual aesthetic skills. Prerequisite: FADR 220.

Elective Requirements (6 cr.)

GRDS 355 - Calligraphy 3

Students learn the basics of Arabic calligraphy as defined by Ibn Muqla. The variations of the main Arabic scripts are explained through a set of visual examples. The course touches upon Islamic calligraphy as a communicative and embellishing technique used in the visual arts. The practical aspect of the course explores the techniques and rules of drawing letters of the main standardized Arabic Script. Calligraphy will also be used to create modern visual expressions. Prerequisite: GRDS 305.

GRDS 220 - Introduction to Digital Media 3

In this course, students will develop a solid foundation in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop tools and techniques. Student will learn the difference between vector based and pixel based program and integrating them to produce creative graphics. Moreover, students will be introduced to Adobe InDesign: workspace, function and tools.

FADR 230 - Ceramics 3

An introductory studio course that teaches students hand-made and wheel methods of construction for clay. The course includes an examination of clay, glaze, decoration methods, and firing process. Students will acquire knowledge in making functional as well as sculptural pieces using a variety of techniques. Well thought out forms, designs and functional uses along with good craftsmanship are emphasized.

FADR 310 - Silkscreen 3

Silkscreen is one of the most flexible and widely used types of printmaking. The class focuses on various silkscreen techniques taught through demonstrations and specific projects. Images and graphic visuals will be made using hand drawn separations, photographic film, digital separations and photocopied images. Water-based silkscreen inks are used, allowing for soap-and-water cleanup. Students will be encouraged to experiment with multiple techniques and combinations of traditional and contemporary methods.

FADR 316 - History of Islamic Art & Architecture 3

This course studies the cultural history of Islamic societies as expressed by their art and architecture from the 7th century to the present. Changes in artistic styles, secular and religious architectural advances and expression of the written word will be compared across time and geography in social and economic contexts. Student will acquire knowledge of the history and development of Islamic art and architecture and will learn how to analyze relationships between artistic form and ideological function. Prerequisite: FADR 215.

FADR 320 - Sculpture 3

This course explores three-dimensional sculptural forms by modeling, carving, and casting. Students will learn to develop their individual styles and experience the use of various materials and mediums in sculpting. The course focuses on the production of free standing and relief sculptures for specific sites and purposes. Prerequisite: FADR 222.

INDS 232 - Photography II 3

This course emphasizes the development of a critical eye and the use of photography as a form of self-expression and an artistic medium. Students are expected to have a working knowledge of the photographic process. Students will produce photographs as fine art and refine advanced technical and printing techniques. Students will also learn to use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Light Room to modify images and enhance their quality. Prerequisite: Photography I.

FADR 300 - Painting 3

This course is an introduction to various painting materials, skills and techniques. It helps students develop an artistic potential to create various moods. Students will learn how to use the brush to create different strokes and how to manipulate color to suit their concepts. Color theory will be discussed in class. The course includes detailed studies from still life, landscape, and the human figure. Prerequisite: FADR 220, FADR 204.

INDS 350 - Environmental Design & Wayfinding 3

This course highlights the role of design in the field of environmental and architectural work. Students will be exposed to a survey of environmental graphic design to include way finding systems, architectural graphics, signage, exhibit design, identity graphics, civic design, pictogram design, retail and store design, mapping and theme environments. Discourse will focus on form and user experience as it relates to information, environment and cultural context. Students will learn how to design and implement navigational systems for both virtual and physical spaces. Prerequisite: INDS 311.

INDS 355 - Economics of Taste & Style 3

This course explores international political and environmental factors that influence trends in interior design, architecture and the world of fine and decorative arts. It is an introduction to the market in the fine and decorative arts. Students will learn the differences between cost, value and quality in period furniture, ceramics, glass and textiles and will gain insight into the range of factors that influence purchasing or collecting these objects; such as changing fashions, scarcity, mass-market adaptations, provenance and condition.

INDS 360 - Feng Shui Interior Design 3

This course explores the language of Feng Shui and how it can be applied to space planning. Students learn to apply Feng Shui principles like simplicity, chi, bagua, Yin and Yang and five room elements to space design projects. Feng Shui principles increase health and well-being to any space. Prerequisite: INDS 311.

Other majors in College of Arts and Sciences

Graphic Design Program

Contact Info

If you have a query about a specific major or application, please contact the relevant Administrative Assistant.

MS. NISRINE MAHMOUD

Administrative Assistant
Tel: +961 5 60 30 90 Ext. 701

E-mail: da_cas@rhu.edu.lb

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