Program Overview
Digital Arts: Computer Animation at Cerritos College
Associate of Arts
The Cerritos College Computer Animation program combines a solid core of art foundation courses to build visual literacy with current computer graphics technology. Students develop technical proficiency and problem solving skills through both traditional and digital media. Students learn the fundamental concepts of visual literacy and critical thinking skills in three dimensional design, 3D modeling and animation that will enable them to pursue upper division coursework or enter the workforce. Students develop personal professional portfolios of their artwork, which enable them to enter the workforce.
Salary, Growth and Careers
Salary
Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $46,000 to $162,000 with an average salary of $105,000.
Growth
Career opportunities for this program are expected to grow nationwide from 2022 to 2032.
Careers
- Special Effects Artists and Animators
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +8.2%
- Average Salary: $133k
- Salary Range: $97k - $162k
- Film and Video Editors
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +9.4%
- Average Salary: $101k
- Salary Range: $64k - $131k
- Sound Engineering Technicians
- Education Level: Postsecondary nondegree award
- Job Growth: -1.2%
- Average Salary: $83k
- Salary Range: $46k - $120k
Education levels are meant to represent what is typical for entry into the career, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Program Outline
Program Structure:
Students begin with foundational art courses to build visual literacy. These include drawing, two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, and storyboarding. They then progress to core computer animation courses, focusing on 3D modeling, animation principles, motion picture editing, and computer animation projects.
Course Schedule:
Year 1:
- Fall Semester: Freehand Drawing, Two-Dimensional Design, English Composition
- Spring Semester: Life Drawing, Three-Dimensional Design, 3D Modeling for Animation
Year 2:
- Fall Semester: 3D Computer Animation, Motion Picture Editing, Storyboarding, Natural Sciences
- Spring Semester: 3D Computer Animation Project, Elective, Elective
Assessment
Assessment methods:
- Continuous assessment through assignments, projects, and presentations
- Final projects in core animation courses
- Portfolio development
Assessment criteria:
- Technical proficiency and skills
- Creativity and originality
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Visual storytelling and communication
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
- Project-based learning with hands-on practice
- Individualized feedback and guidance
- Collaborative learning environment
Faculty:
- Experienced instructors with industry experience
Unique approaches:
- Integration of traditional and digital art forms
- Focus on storytelling and visual communication
- Industry partnerships and guest lectures
Careers
Career Opportunities:
Special Effects Artists and Animators
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +15.8%
- Average Salary: $95k
Film and Video Editors
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +33.2%
- Average Salary: $90k
Sound Engineering Technicians
- Education Level: Postsecondary nondegree award
- Job Growth: +17.4%
- The program prepares students for entry-level positions in animation and related fields.
- Graduates have been successful in securing employment with companies like Disney, DreamWorks, and Pixar. The sections 'Fees', 'Admission requirements' and 'Application process' are not present.
