About the Animation Program
The Animation program prepares students for careers in the entertainment industry through comprehensive, hands-on training. The program is designed to meet the industry's need for creative professionals who excel in developing ideas and have the technical proficiency to execute them. Our instructors are experienced professionals who bring first-hand knowledge of industry practices to the classroom and work in close collaboration with industry advisors to keep up with trends and changing requirements. In addition, participating companies often provide guest speakers and student internships. We offer day, evening and weekend classes to provide educational opportunities to all students. In addition, select courses are offered online through Distance Education. Students who are interested in the Animation program are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment with one of the counselors at the Center for Media and Design campus to develop an Educational Plan. This is to ensure that you are taking the necessary courses to meet your educational goals. To learn more, please visit the Design Technology website.
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Program Paths
Animation
Associate in Science
The Associate degree in Animation program is a comprehensive study of the skills necessary to create 2D or 3D digital animation for the entertainment industry. The required coursework begins with the Animation Foundation Certificate of Achievement, combining a solid foundation in animation history and visual storytelling with hands-on experience in digital animation pre-production and production processes.
Animation Foundation
Certificate of Achievement
The Animation Foundation program provides a solid foundation in animation history and visual storytelling, as well as hands-on exposure to digital animation pre-production and production processes. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of industry-standard software applications.
2D Animation
Certificate of Achievement
The 2D Animation certificate is a comprehensive study of the process of creating two-dimensional animation for use in the entertainment industry. Students learn to create high-quality 2D animated content for a variety of projects using standard industry tools and methods.
3D Animation
Certificate of Achievement
The 3D Animation program is a comprehensive study of the process of creating three-dimensional animation for use in the entertainment industry. Students learn to create high quality 3D animated content for a variety of projects using standard industry tools and methods.
3D Production
Certificate of Achievement
The 3D Production program is a comprehensive study of the process of creating three-dimensional assets for use in the entertainment industry. Students learn to create high-quality 3D production assets for a variety of projects using standard industry tools and methods.
Visual Development
Certificate of Achievement
The Visual Development program is comprehensive study of the visual development pre-production process used in the entertainment industry. Students learn to create high-quality visual development art and storyboard animatics for a variety of projects using standard industry tools and methods.
Potential Career Options
Featured Faculty
Chris Fria
James KeeshenResources and Transfer
Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should meet with a counselor to discuss which courses need to be taken at SMC before applying to your colleges/universities.
Student Resources
We know college isn't always easy. We are here to help as you navigate through your SMC journey. This resource connects to information about Financial Aid, Tutoring Services, the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing and much more!
Center for Media & Design
Design classes take place at the Center for Media and Design. Here you can find state of the art equipment, a computer lab with software for your classes, tutoring resources, and more!
Transfers
Graphic Design is a career education program that does not directly lead to transfer. Students planning to transfer should talk immediately with an Academic Counselor to discuss what SMC courses will help you transfer.