May 02, 2026  
2026-2027 Course Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Course Catalog

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Animation & Rich Media, Introduction to Motion Graphics, Certificate

Location(s): West Des Moines



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The Animation Introduction to Motion Graphics Certificate focuses on the fundamental skills required for the Motion Graphics industry.

Students will learn how to create digital artwork and prepare assets for animation using Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop.

Use Adobe After Effects to bring graphical assets and scenes to life, and add special effects to video footage.

Students will learn essential industry techniques for generating video and audio assets.

Program Details


Location: West Des Moines


Pathway: Design, Media, & the Arts


More information on this Pathway.

Students may start this program Fall semester


Program Graduation Requirements


To earn a Motion Graphics Certificate, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average. 

Total Credits Required to Complete this Award - 12 Credits


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$215.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


  Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Books (approximate) 45-65 50-70 50-70
Supplies 30 30 30
External Hard Drive 100-200

 


 
PC Computer 1500-2000

 


 
Recommended Software

 


 


 
Design Software 20-30 20-30 20-30
Portfolio

 


 
100

Approximate total cost for the program: $4,575-$5,265

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Create digital assets and graphics for animation
  • Use animation to communicate messages, stories, and ideas to others
  • Create digital characters, objects, and environments
  • Create graphics and special effects for live action film and television.
  • Create quality assets for film, television, and more
  • Plan, budget and produce animation projects
  • Edit, finish and render animation projects

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Have good computer skills.
  • Have strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Must be able to follow directions, instructions and take direction from supervisors, clients and co-workers
  • Attention to detail, analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to learn new procedures and software technical skills quickly and independently.
  • Teamwork, collaboration and the ability to take direction from supervisors, clients and coworkers to improve your work.
  • Manage your time to meet established deadlines, work on multiple projects, and stay within a project budget.
  • Work long hours on a computer using specialized design software.
  • Desire and discipline to spend whatever time it takes to complete complicated projects.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?


Program Competencies


  1. Create vector shapes and paths in Adobe Illustrator
  2. Generate a digital illustration in Photoshop
  3. Modify imported video footage
  4. Execute the animation process
  5. Create standard video shots
  6. Demonstrate effective video editing techniques.
  7. Employ the use of audio editing techniques
  8. Appraise Audio Wave Forms and files

Competencies revised date


AY2020

Nondiscrimination Statement


It is the policy of Des Moines Area Community College not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law.  

If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Director, Enterprise Risk Management, 2006 South Ankeny Boulevard, Bldg 22, Ankeny, IA 50023, 515-513-0655, feedback@dmacc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov (2026)

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