Department of Radio-Television-Film
Most upper-division radio-television-film courses are restricted to radio-television-film majors. At any time, a nonmajor may ask the instructor for consent to register for the instructor’s course. However, faculty members often do not give nonmajors consent to enroll until demand for the course can be determined on the first class day. For Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318, the department restricts enrollment during the first registration period to radio-television-film majors. During later registration periods, courses in which space is available may be opened to nonmajors.
Attendance is required at the first class meeting of Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 and all upper-division radio-television-film courses. At the discretion of the instructor, students who do not attend the first class meeting may be dropped from the course, even if they have registered and paid their tuition.
The Department of Radio-Television-Film reserves the right to retain and to use for noncommercial purposes copies of all work completed by students as part of departmental course assignments.
Because prerequisites are subject to change, students should consult the Course Schedule before registering.
The information in parentheses after a course number is the Texas Common Course Numbering (TCCN) designation. Only TCCN designations that are exact semester-hour equivalents of University courses are listed here. Additional TCCN information is given in Appendix A .
Radio-Television-Film: RTF
Lower-Division Courses
RTF 301N. Introductory Topics in Radio-Television-Film.
Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.
RTF 305 (TCCN: COMM 1307). Introduction to Media Studies.
Introduction to historical, cultural, political, economic, and international characteristics of film, television, and other media in society. Two lecture hours, one discussion hour, and one two-and-one-half-hour film screening a week for one semester. Required of all radio-television-film majors.
RTF 309. Communication Technology and Society.
Same as Communication 309. Study of communication technologies, from writing to the Internet; their uses in interpersonal, group, mass, and international contexts; and the impact of technologies on work. Three lecture hours and one discussion hour a week for one semester.
RTF 312C. Introduction to Global Media.
A world perspective on information, news, and entertainment communication systems; politics, technology, economics, and culture. Three lecture hours a week for one semester.
RTF 314 (TCCN: COMM 2366). The Development of the Motion Picture.
Survey of significant movements and schools of filmmaking through viewings and discussions of representative motion pictures; critical approaches to performance, sociological impact, visual aesthetics, and industry structure. Three lecture hours and one two-hour film screening a week for one semester. A one-hour discussion section may also be required.
RTF 316 (TCCN: COMM 1335). History of Television and Radio.
Survey of evolution of U.S. television and radio programming, aesthetics, production, and policy. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with one screening of up to two hours a week as required.
RTF 316M. Race, Ethnicity, and the Media.
Same as Communication 316M. Critical review of contemporary and historical media images of, and discourses on, race and ethnicity. Introduction to relevant communication research and institutions. Three lecture hours and one discussion hour a week for one semester. Fulfills the communication and culture requirement in the College of Communication. Prerequisite: A major in the College of Communication.
RTF 317. Narrative Strategies.
Study of the way meaning is structured and perceived in the screen image; introduction to basic narrative techniques. Includes viewing and analysis of narrative examples. Three lecture hours and one two-and-one-half-hour film screening a week for one semester. Some sections may require an additional discussion hour. Required of all students in the production area. Students may not enroll in this course more than twice. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 305.
RTF 318. Introduction to Image and Sound.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Exploration of fundamental production concepts and techniques through lectures, projects, and laboratory work. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Students may not enroll in this course more than twice. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 305.
RTF 319. Introduction to Digital Media.
Basic information, skills, and theories of digital media. Includes the study of computer-based image construction, Web-based tools for research and production, and theories of interactivity. Three lecture hours and two laboratory hours a week for one semester. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 305.
RTF 119S, 219S, 319S, 419S, 519S, 619S, 719S, 819S, 919S. Topics in Radio-Television-Film.
This course is used to record credit the student earns while enrolled at another institution in a program administered by the University's Study Abroad Office. Credit is recorded as assigned by the study abroad adviser in the Department of Radio-Television-Film. University credit is awarded for work in an exchange program; it may be counted as coursework taken in residence. Transfer credit is awarded for work in an affiliated studies program. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.
Upper-Division Courses
RTF 321F. Media Analysis and Criticism.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. A foundational course devoted to the critical analysis of media in a variety of contexts. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. Additional hours may be required for some topics. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and twelve semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 324F. Social Theories of Media.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. A foundational course exploring social theories of media. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. Additional hours may be required for some topics. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and twelve semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 124L, 224L, 324L. Topics in the Entertainment Professions.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Contemporary issues, practices, and skills related to communication and the entertainment industries, including studies in the business of entertainment, the entertainment professions, the creative process, and contemporary Hollywood cinema. One, two, or three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, Radio-Television-Film 305, a University grade point average of at least 2.25, and admission to the Semester in Los Angeles program.
RTF 129S, 229S, 329S, 429S, 529S, 629S, 729S, 829S, 929S. Topics in Radio-Television-Film.
This course is used to record credit the student earns while enrolled at another institution in a program administered by the University's Study Abroad Office. Credit is recorded as assigned by the study abroad adviser in the Department of Radio-Television-Film. University credit is awarded for work in an exchange program; it may be counted as coursework taken in residence. Transfer credit is awarded for work in an affiliated studies program. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary.
RTF 330G. Topics in Media Research.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Applied research investigating specific media topics. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, Radio-Television-Film 305 with a grade of at least C, and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C.
RTF 330K. Introduction to Research Methods.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Introduction to applied media research and research criticism; fundamentals of audience analysis, survey design, experimental and field research, content analysis. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 330L. Internship in Film and Electronic Media.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Practical work experience related to the study of film, television, radio, or other media. Students must make their own arrangements to secure relevant internships. The equivalent of ten lecture hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 330L and 330M may not both be counted. Offered on the pass/fail basis only. Prerequisite: The following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; and consent of the internship coordinator.
RTF 330M. Internship in Digital Media.
Position availability depends on qualifications of student and number of internships open at time of enrollment. Practical work experience in digital media and postproduction media. One and one-half lecture hours and at least ten hours of fieldwork a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 330L and 330M may not both be counted. Offered on the pass/fail basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, twelve semester hours of coursework in the College of Communication with a grade of at least C in each course, and consent of instructor.
RTF 331J. Policy Issues in New Communication Technologies.
Overview of policy and regulation of communication systems in the United States, with emphasis on contemporary technologies. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, and the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 309, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 331K. Film, Video, and Television Theory.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Survey of basic theories that seek to explain the relationships between film, video, television, and their respective audiences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with one two-hour film screening a week if required by the topic. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
Topic 1: Cult Movies and Gender Issues.
Topic 2: Television and Theories of Gender.
Topic 4: Feminist Media Theory. Survey of basic feminist media theory.
Topic 5: Screen Theory. Survey of basic screen theory.
RTF 331L. Corporate and Instructional Video.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Study, design, production, use, and evaluation of corporate and instructional video materials. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B in each.
RTF 331M. New Communication Technologies.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Survey of history of new communication technologies. Analysis of regulation, policy, economics, and programming of new communication technologies. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 309, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 331N. The Information Society.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Introduction to information technologies such as the Internet, telephones, and computers and their relation to existing media; includes history, policy, economics, and social impact. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 309, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 331P. Topics in New Communication Technologies.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Applications and potential effects of new telecommunications and information technologies in the home and the workplace, and for education and social services. Three lecture hours a week for one semester; additional hours may be required for some topics. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 309, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 331Q. Topics in Digital Media.
Laboratory explorations of the spatial and narrative dimensions of the digital environment. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 318 or 319, and six additional semester hours of coursework chosen from Radio-Television-Film 309, 314, 316, 317, 318, and 319; for others, upper-division standing.
RTF 331R. Topics in New Media.
Students produce projects in either film, video, computer animation, collage, sculpture, assemblage, soundscape, or performance. Prior experience in one or more media is helpful but not necessary. Three lecture hours and one and one-half studio hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 318 or 319, and six additional semester hours of coursework chosen from Radio-Television-Film 309, 314, 316, 317, 318, and 319; for others, upper-division standing.
RTF 331T. Topics in Digital Media: Audio.
Explorations of the auditory dimensions of the digital environment. Three lecture hours a week for one semester; additional hours may be required for some topics. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 318 or 319, and six additional semester hours of coursework chosen from Radio-Television-Film 309, 314, 316, 317, 318, and 319; for others, upper-division standing.
RTF 333. Introduction to Screenwriting.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. An introduction to screenwriting for features, short films, documentaries, and television. Lectures explore the basic theory of story, character, and structure. Students write original screenplays during workshop hours. One and one-half lecture hours and two workshop hours a week for one semester. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 334. Programming and Audiences.
Study of media programming and its cognitive and behavioral impact on audiences. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 335. Television Analysis and Criticism.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Analysis of critical methods, selected television programs, and selected critics. Practice in written criticism required of all students. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with one two-hour film screening a week if required by the topic. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 336. Special Projects in Radio-Television-Film.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Comprehensive research or creative projects in areas of special interest developed and executed by the student under faculty supervision. Individual instruction. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; and consent of instructor and the chair of the department.
RTF 337. Radio Fundamentals.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Fundamentals of audio program production. Students create either brief or long audio programs. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
RTF 337P. Multitrack Audio Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Principles and practice of multitrack audio production. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
RTF 340. Studio Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Introduction to production of television programs, including the multicamera format. Three lecture hours and six laboratory hours a week for one semester. May not be taken concurrently with Radio-Television-Film 366 or 366K. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
Topic 1: Drama/Music Production.
Topic 2: Public Affairs Production.
RTF 341. Audio Production: Sound for Picture.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Theory and practice of producing quality audio for television, film, and other picture media. Includes basic editing on a digital audio workstation. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
RTF 341C. Advanced Audio: Sound Design and Postproduction.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Sound design and editing, and fundamentals of postproduction audio mixing. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 337, 337P, or 341.
RTF 342. Topics in Global Media.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Study of political, social, cultural, and economic factors affecting the use and impact of communication systems in an international context. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Topic 1: National Media Systems.
Topic 2: Comparative Media Systems.
Topic 3: International Communication: Third World Issues. Same as Latin American Studies 322 (Topic 7) and Mexican American Studies 374 (Topic 17). Additional prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing; consent of instructor; and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Topic 4: Participatory Media.
Topic 6: Development Communication. Same as Middle Eastern Studies 341 (Topic 4: Development Communication). Only one of the following may be counted: Middle Eastern Studies 322K (Topic 14: Development Communication), 341 (Topic 4), Radio-Television-Film 342 (Topic 6).
Topic 7: Global Media Systems.
RTF 342T. International Telecommunications.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Overview of issues and history of international telecommunication systems, focusing on the roles of business and government. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 309, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 343. Advanced Video Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Advanced study in film, television, and media production. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 340, 366, or 366K; additional prerequisites vary with the topic.
Topic 1: Advanced Narrative Production. Restricted to students in radio-television-film. Individual and group production of short films using high-definition video. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Additional prerequisite: Upper-division standing and Radio-Television-Film 340 or 366K (Topic 2: Narrative Production).
Topic 2: Advanced Documentary Production. Individual and group production of a documentary, from research and preproduction to completion.
Topic 3: Advanced Soundstage Production. Group production of short films using the Hollywood soundstage as the primary model.
Topic 4: Creating Cross-Platform Fundraising Media. Small group production of client-commissioned fundraising media and an exploration of the realm of independent production contracting. Radio-Television-Film 343 (Topic 4) and 344M (Topic: Cross-Platform Content Creation) may not both be counted. Additional prerequisite: Upper-division standing, and Radio-Television-Film 346, 366D, 366K, or 368 with a grade of at least B.
Topic 5: Developing Independent Feature Films. Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Group research and lectures about producing an independent feature film. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 343 (Topic: Developing Indie Feature Films) and 343 (Topic 5) may not both be counted. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Additional prerequisite: Upper-division standing and Radio-Television-Film 340 or 366K.
Topic 7: Film Funding and Promotion. Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Creation and implementation of social media presence, crowd funding, publicity, and festival exposure for independent films. Three lecture hours a week for one semester Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Additional prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
RTF 343M. Master Class.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Incorporates a guest speaker series, focused on a particular topic for the semester. Students conduct research, coordinate and attend the speaker series, and pursue creative projects related to the semester's topic. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and twelve semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 343N. Advanced Three-Dimensional Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Carries the principles developed in Radio-Television-Film 366M into a variety of hands-on production settings and projects, including large-crew productions at Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater, as well as smaller shoots in a variety of other studios and locations. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester, with additional hours to be arranged. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, Radio-Television-Film 366M, and consent of instructor.
RTF 343S. Soundstage Production for Television and Film.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Study of the skills and aesthetics related to professional-level productions in the soundstage format. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 343 (Topic: Soundstage Production for Television and Film) and 343S may not both be counted. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 340 or 366K with a grade of at least C.
RTF 344. Special Applications of Media Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Special problems involved in audio, film, and video production. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged if required by the topic. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each. Additional prerequisites vary with the topic.
RTF 344M. Special Applications of Digital Media Production.
Special topics in digital media theory, design, or development. May include visual effects and motion graphics or digital media and digital art. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 318 or 319, and six additional semester hours of coursework chosen from Radio-Television-Film 309, 314, 316, 317, 318, and 319; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Topic 1: Interactive Digital Storytelling. Workshop in creative digital film content for the Web. Includes digital media and digital art.
Topic 2: Computer Graphics for Film and Games. Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 344M (Topic: Computer Animation and 3-D Modeling) and 344M (Topic 2) may not both be counted. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Additional prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
RTF 344N. Advanced Applications of Digital Media Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Advanced topics in digital media theory, design, and development. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; for radio-television-film majors, Radio-Television-Film 344M (Topic: Visual Effects and Motion Graphics) with a grade of at least C; additional prerequisites may vary with the topic.
Topic 1: Advanced Visual Effects. Radio-Television-Film 344N (Topic 1) and 344N (Topic 2: Advanced Effects: Modeling) may not both be counted. Radio-Television-Film 344N (Topic 1) and 344N (Topic 3: Advanced Effects: Rigging) may not both be counted. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Additional prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
Topic 2: Advanced Effects: Modeling. Radio-Television-Film 344N (Topic 1: Advanced Visual Effects) and 344N (Topic 2) may not both be counted. Offered on the letter-grade basis only.
Topic 3: Advanced Effects: Rigging. Radio-Television-Film 344N (Topic 1: Advanced Visual Effects) and 344N (Topic 3) may not both be counted. Offered on the letter-grade basis only.
RTF 345. Studies in Film History.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Critical assessment of major genres, periods, movements, and personalities in United States and international film history. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with one two-hour film screening a week if required by the topic. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
Topic 1: Third World Cinema: Asia and the Middle East.
Topic 2: Israeli Cinema and Television. Only one of the following may be counted: Jewish Studies 363 (Topic 16: Israeli Cinema and Television), Middle Eastern Studies 325 (Topic 2: Israeli Cinema and Television), Radio-Television-Film 345 (Topic 2).
Topic 3: History of Mexican Cinema.
Topic 4: Latin American Cinema.
Topic 5: Third World Cinema: Africa and the Americas.
Topic 6: Experimental Film and Video. Critical assessment of the history and current trends in experimental film and video. Radio-Television-Film 331K (Topic: Experimental Film and Video) and 345 (Topic 6) may not both be counted.
RTF 346. Introduction to Editing.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Theory and practice of video and film editing techniques. Three lecture hours and one and one-half laboratory hours a week for one semester. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
RTF 346E. Advanced Editing.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. In-depth look at the principles, techniques, and aesthetics of editing; building a broad background for students' future professional development. Designed to provide a basic-to-intermediate level of familiarity with Avid editing software, by discussing and working on provided narrative, documentary, and technical exercises; various approaches to editing style in each case. Three lecture hours and two and one-half film screening hours a week for one semester, with additional laboratory hours to be arranged. Only one of the following may be counted: Radio-Television-Film 344 (Topic: Advanced Editing), 346C, 346E. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each; Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each; and Radio-Television-Film 346 with a grade of at least B.
RTF 347C. The Business of Media.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Survey of business practices in film, television, and music industries: development, production, distribution, and exhibition. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 348. Studies in Media Industries.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Examination of the economics and the production, research, management, and distribution practices of the film and electronic media industries. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 351C. Introduction to Two-Dimensional Animation.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Theory and practice of digital graphics and animation techniques. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, 318, or 319, and six additional semester hours of coursework chosen from Radio-Television-Film 309, 314, 316, 317, 318, and 319.
RTF 351D. Advanced Two-Dimensional Animation.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. In-depth study of two-dimensional animation techniques and an introduction to stop-motion animation, green screen techniques, and postproduction effects. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with additional laboratory hours to be arranged. Only one of the following may be counted: Radio-Television-Film 344M (Topic: Advanced Digital Animation), 344M (Topic: Two-Dimensional Animation and Motion Graphics), 351D. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and Radio-Television-Film 351C.
RTF 351T. Three-Dimensional Animation.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Introduction to the art of three-dimensional animation using lectures, workshops, screenings, and labs. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with additional laboratory hours to be arranged. Radio-Television-Film 344M (Topic: Three-Dimensional Animation) and 351T may not both be counted. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 351D.
RTF 359. Studies in Media and Culture.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Special topics related to the critical analysis of media in cultural contexts. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 359 and 359S may not both be counted unless the topics vary. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, prerequisites vary with the topic and are given in the Course Schedule.
Topic 2: Race and Popular American Culture. Same as African and African Diaspora Studies 321M and Sociology 321M. The intersection of African American racial politics and the changing popular media industry, especially film, music, and television. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing.
RTF 359S. Studies in Media and Culture.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Special topics related to the critical analysis of media in cultural contexts. Three lecture hours and one two-hour film screening a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 359 and 359S may not both be counted unless the topics vary. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, prerequisites vary with the topic and are given in the Course Schedule.
Topic 1: Hispanic Images and Counterimages. Same as Latin American Studies 322 (Topic 1: Hispanic Images and Counterimages) and Mexican American Studies 374 (Topic 9: Hispanic Images and Counterimages). The critical analysis of Hispanic images in media. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Topic 2: Women and Media Culture. Critical analysis of media and its interrelation with issues of gender. Radio-Television-Film 359 (Topic: Women and Media Culture) and 359S (Topic 2) may not both be counted.
Topic 3: Gender and Rock Culture. Critical analysis of issues relating to media, gender, and rock culture. Radio-Television-Film 331K (Topic: Gender, Sexuality, and Rock Culture) and 359S (Topic 3) may not both be counted.
Topic 4: Media, Memory, and History. Critical analysis of the relationship between historical events and media.
RTF 365. Topics in Media and Society.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Advanced topics addressing media, communication, and society. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with additional hours to be arranged if required by the topic. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Varies with the topic.
Topic 2: Latino Audiences. Same as Latin American Studies 322 (Topic 2: Latino Audiences) and Mexican American Studies 374 (Topic 10: Latino Audiences). Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors: upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Topic 3: Mass Media and Ethnic Groups. Same as Latin American Studies 322 (Topic 3: Mass Media and Ethnic Groups) and Mexican American Studies 374 (Topic 11: Mass Media and Ethnic Groups). Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors: upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Topic 4: History of United States Latino Media. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, Radio-Television-Film 305 with a grade of at least C, and nine additional semester hours of coursework in radio-television-film.
Topic 5: Latin American Media. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, Radio-Television-Film 305 with a grade of at least C, and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
Topic 6: Latinos and Media. Same as Latin American Studies 322 (Topic 12: Latinos and Media) and Mexican American Studies 374 (Topic 24: Latinos and Media). Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Topic 7: Narrowcasting. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, Radio-Television-Film 305 with a grade of at least C, and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
Topic 8: Migration and Media. Advanced study of global media issues, including traditional and digital media use, social inclusion, and migration to the United States from Latin America, Asia, and elsewhere. Students conduct research on the relationships between media and migration. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing, Radio-Television-Film 305 with a grade of at least C, and nine additional semester hours of coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 365C. Media and Policy.
Advanced topics addressing media and policy in society. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, consent of instructor.
Topic 1: Media, Communication Law, and Ethics. Contemporary ethical and policy issues facing the transforming media industries and the American public. Rooted in an understanding of the First Amendment as well as the development of communication industries, the course examines a range of topics that new media and the Internet have complicated. Radio-Television-Film 365 (Topic: Media, Communication Law, and Ethics) and 365C (Topic 1) may not both be counted. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing and the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
RTF 365D. Media Literacy.
Advanced topics addressing media literacy and education. Three lecture hours a week for one semester; some topics require additional hours. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: For radio-television-film majors, upper-division standing and the following coursework with a grade of at least C in each: Radio-Television-Film 305, and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film; for others, consent of instructor.
RTF 366. Introduction to Field and Studio Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Basic theory and techniques in single-camera video production; individual and collective production assignments, with emphasis on technical proficiency, examination of the entire production process, visualization of ideas, and critical evaluation of the visual text. Three lecture hours and six laboratory hours a week for one semester. May not be taken concurrently with Radio-Television-Film 340 or 366K. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B in each.
RTF 366D. Directing Workshop.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Explores the role of the director, focusing on the director-actor relationship, narrative structure, and visual language. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 344 (Topic: Directing Workshop) and 366D may not both be counted. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each; and a University grade point average of at least 2.25.
RTF 366K. Introductory Production.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Workshops in narrative and documentary production. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. May not be taken concurrently with Radio-Television-Film 340 or 366. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
Topic 2: Narrative Production. A workshop in visual storytelling and making non-dialogue films.
Topic 3: Documentary Production. Workshop in contemporary documentary practice, including directing, producing, cinematography, editing, sound recording, and distribution.
Topic 4: East Austin Stories. Students work in small production groups and make documentaries in and about East Austin for public screening at the end of the semester and for Webcasting.
RTF 366M. Introduction to Three-Dimensional Production.
Restricted to students in radio-television-film. An introduction to the aesthetics, science, theory and practice of three-dimensional production via lectures, screenings, and some hands-on production work in groups, as assigned by the professor. No previous three-dimensional experience is required. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
RTF 367K. Producing Film and Television.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Comprehensive consideration of the production process from the producer's standpoint regarding fiscal and creative management. Includes development and preproduction and production planning using computer budgeting and scheduling. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with computer laboratory hours to be arranged. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; Radio-Television-Film 305 and three additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film with a grade of at least C in each course; and Radio-Television-Film 317 and 318 with a grade of at least B- in each.
RTF 367L. Narrative Filmmaking: 16-mm.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Theory and techniques in 16-mm film synchronous sound production; individual and collective production assignments, with emphasis on technical proficiency, examination of entire production process, visualization of ideas, and critical evaluation of the visual text. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 366K.
RTF 367P. Advanced Producing.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Advanced practical application of the business and creative skills used to produce and distribute media projects in the marketplace. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 344 (Topic: Advanced Producing) and 367P may not both be counted. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 367K.
RTF 368. Advanced Production Topics.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Advanced study of production crafts in film, television, and other digital media. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 343 or 367L.
Topic 2: Cinematography. Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Additional prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and Radio-Television-Film 343 (Topic 1: Advanced Narrative Production), 343 (Topic 2: Advanced Documentary Production), or 367L.
Topic 3: Advanced Production.
RTF 368C. Advanced Directing.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Students will write and produce performance-based works that emphasize simplicity and ingenuity in image and sound choices in collaboration with actors from the Department of Theatre and Dance. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours a week for one semester. Radio-Television-Film 368 (Topic 4: Advanced Directing) and 368C may not both be counted. Offered on the letter-grade basis only. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and Radio-Television-Film 366D.
RTF 368S. Undergraduate Thesis.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Advanced film production or media studies research. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with studio hours to be arranged. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 343, 367L, or 368; and consent of instructor.
Topic 1: Film Production Thesis. Intensive production workshop, designed for students who wish to produce a film for a portfolio.
Topic 2: Media Studies Thesis. An independent research project based on primary data, resulting in a written summary of theoretical foundations, methodological approach, results, and a discussion.
RTF 369. Advanced Screenwriting.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Students develop and write original screenplays. Includes advanced study of screenplay structure, critical analysis of student and professional work, and intensive writing each week toward a completed script. Three lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 333 with a grade of at least B-.
Topic 1: Advanced Screenwriting for Feature Films.
Topic 2: Advanced Screenwriting for Television.
RTF 370. Film Analysis and Criticism.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Analysis of critical methods, selected films, and selected critics. Three lecture hours a week for one semester, with one two-hour film screening a week if required by the topic. May be repeated for credit when the topics vary. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; and the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305, either 314 or 316, and six additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio-television-film.
RTF 178. Radio-Television-Film Internship.
Restricted to radio-television-film majors. Practical work experience related to the study of film, television, radio, or other media. Students must make their own arrangements to secure relevant internships. The equivalent of ten lecture hours a week for one semester. May be repeated, but only one hour may be counted toward the Bachelor of Science in Radio-Television-Film. Offered on the pass/fail basis only. Prerequisite: Radio-Television-Film 330L and consent of the internship coordinator.
RTF 378H. Honors Tutorial Course.
Intensive reading, research, and/or production project. Individual instruction. May be repeated once for credit. Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; the following coursework, with a grade of at least C in each course: Radio-Television-Film 305 and nine additional semester hours of lower-division coursework in radio- television-film; consent of instructor; a University grade point average of at least 3.00 and a grade point average in radio-television- film of at least 3.50; and consent of the department chair.