Dear Addie, What are some fun electives to take?
"Dear Addie, I’m planning my class schedule for fall semester - got any suggestions on fun elective courses? - Elective Emily"
Hey Emily, I appreciate you asking about fun courses. CU Boulder offers a wide variety of subjects you can check out. From dancing to art, there are subjects to pique many interests. And who knows, by taking a random course as an elective, you may learn a new skill or two. I polled some CU students and came up with a list of classes to get your creative brain flowing!
APRD 1004: Fundamentals of Grammar
Teaches students the basic rules of grammar, punctuation, word choice and sentence structure so that they can write clear and concise messages that convey a desired meaning, apply punctuation in an accurate and effective manner, and differentiate between style conventions.
ARTS 1212: Painting for Non-majors
Explores varied painting techniques. Introduces concepts relevant to the understanding of painting and the creative process.
ARTS 1012: Drawing for Non-majors
Explores varied drawing techniques and media. Introduces concepts relevant to the understanding of drawing and the creative process.
ARTS 1010: Introduction to Studio Art
Presents creative activity conceptually, and art history thematically, with an interdisciplinary, experimental, and multicultural focus. Fine arts majors explore visual literacy and culture through presentations and student-centered projects that emphasize individual development.
CINE 1002: Film Analysis for Non-majors
Introduces the critical study of film, exploring theoretical, historical and technical concerns while presenting a survey of important film periods and genres. Students will hone critical-thinking, close-analysis and writing skills. Covers a wide variety of films, approaching them from numerous perspectives, considering both the effects films have on individual viewers and their ability to reflect culture.
DNCE 1000: Beginning Contemporary Dance Technique
Introduces students to the dynamic capabilities of the body as an articulate means of expression. Presents basic concepts and skills from contemporary dance forms that may include Afro-modern, floor work, inversion, classical modern and improvisation. Classwork develops efficient alignment, strength, flexibility, coordination, rhythm, dynamics and spatial awareness. No experience necessary. May be repeated up to 4 credit hours.
DNCE 2501: African dance
Explores the technique, styles and rhythms of regional and national cultures of Africa. Areas of concentration may vary each semester (e.g. Ghana, Mali, Guinea, etc.). Introduces signature attributes common to different countries' dance traditions and features discussions of the musical traditions, histories, cosmologies, philosophies and aesthetics to contextualize and increase familiarity. May be repeated up to 6 total credit hours.
THTR 1003: Acting 1
Introductory course designed to explore creativity, collaboration and communication in the craft of acting. Focuses on basic terms and concepts of psychological realism fundamental to the actors' process through solo work and ensemble exercises. Open to majors and non-majors.
This is just a small portion of the electives available at CU Boulder. I suggest taking a look at our course catalog to explore further any classes that may peak your interest.
Dear Addie is written by Addie H., a CU alum. She was admitted to CU as an open option student and as she got involved on campus, she quickly found her path as a writer and expert advice giver. In her free time, she enjoys playing with her dog Odin, watching all the medical drama TV shows that exist and going on trips to Target.