Animation and Rich Media Advanced

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

The Animation and Rich Media Advanced Certificate could prepare students for entry level positions in the Animation and Rich Media industry. Students learn 3D software skills that make up the process used in completing a final production project. The Animation and Rich Media Certificate is a pre-requisite to this advanced training certificate.

The skills learned and demonstrated in these classes will enhance the student’s skill set. Students will complete a group capstone project and produce a personal demo reel. These final projects will be like a portfolio and could be used for job interview and/or placement in another college.

A student can add to this certificate by taking additional classes from the Animation and Rich Media Diploma.

This advanced certificate is for individuals who want to develop a base skill set in Animation and Rich Media software. This skill set can be added to the Visual Communications Diploma or the Graphic Design Degree to give graduates more options in the job market. Others may want this certificate to use as a base when transferring to another college that specializes in animation. Professionals may desire these classes to build skills needed for current or new job opportunities.

For more information about the Animation and Rich Media Advanced Certificate, please visit our website at https://go.dmacc.edu/programs/graphicdesign/Pages/welcome.aspx.

Location: Ankeny

Student start Fall term.

Program Entry Requirements

Complete an application for admission.
Satisfy the assessment requirement.
Attend any required information/registration session.
Obtain a minimum COMPASS Reading score of 61 or minimum ACT Reading score of 14.
Obtain a minimum COMPASS English score of 42 or minimum ACT writing score of 14.
Obtain a minimum ALEKS placement score of 9 or minimum ACT Math score of 14.
Attend a required Graphic Design program information session.

Graduation Requirements

To earn a Animation & Rich Media Advanced Certificate, a student must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Semester 1

GRD 489 - Animation Capstone Group Project Credits: 3
GRD 491 - Animation Demo Reel Production Credits: 3
GRD 424 - Graphic Design Internship Credits: 3

Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 9

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$143.00 per credit

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

Varied Costs

	Semester 1
Books (approximate)	150- 200
Supplies	100- 300
External Hard Drive	100- 200
PC Computer	1500-2000

Recommended, but optional

Design Software	20-30
Portfolio	100-200

Note: Financial aid may be used to purchase a computer. Apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

Approximate total for program: $3,127-4,217*

*Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Use animation to communicate messages and ideas to others
• Create digital characters, objects, and environments
• Create special effects for live action film and television.
• Create quality assets for film, television, video games, 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 excellent 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?

• Provide a foundation toward career options within the animation industry.
• Constantly evolving industry requires motivation and lifelong learning to stay up-to-date with technology.

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in or allow discrimination covered by law. This includes harassment based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator can be contacted at 515-964-6857. For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850.