Animation Basics

Beginning animation courses provide an overview of animation and storytelling concepts. Students learn 3-D design techniques and use them to create unique designs and creative characters. Students often work with a variety of materials, including clay and paper-mache, to develop images that can be used to create computer or print designs. The course includes information about manipulating digital photos or print images to look three dimensional.

Computer Graphic Design

Students taking this course use techniques in 3-D design and animation to create computer graphics. The course includes an overview of industry terminology, and students have the opportunity to practice the graphic techniques used in films and games. Students may explore the history of graphic and computer-aided design and current trends. They usually use modern software and powerful computers to create their designs.

Animation and Special Effects

In this 3-D design course, students use programs like Raster Imaging and Adobe Photoshop to create special effects for films, games and other graphic-based media. Instructors guide students through using different techniques and tools. This is primarily a hands-on course that has some lectures and a lot of applied practice.

Digital Modeling

Courses in 3-D digital modeling familiarize students with techniques used by 3-D designers. Students learn how to use texture and light to create realistic effects and characters. Students may use geometric shapes when creating realistic characters, landscapes, buildings and maps.

Game Animation and Motion Effects

Many video games and films use animation, and designers need to make the characters and scenery look believable. In this 3-D design course, students practice manipulating images to make the objects, characters and landscape look as if they’re moving. Special emphasis is placed on character creation, and students create skin and develop joints to make the characters appear lifelike.