Certificate Program
Game Art
Learn an environment-driven approach to visual storytelling with an emphasis on the development of a navigable 3D world and engaging interactive narrative
Students will learn the basics of applying a feature film aesthetic to the creation of visual assets for 3D games. Technical, creative, psychological, and conceptual aspects of gameplay are addressed.
Required Courses
16.5 Credits | Not Available Online
FD 112 Digital Media
This course will center on Digital Media as a means to explore the formal and conceptual aspects of image making. Lens and software based strategies will be applied to a variety of design and conceptually driven assignments. Adobe Creative Suite will be utilized to build the student’s skills and understanding of image making and production. Students will learn how to develop best practices in organizing, formatting, and processing digital files to support creative and professional activities.
Credits : 3
AGA 210 Drawing for Animation
A figure drawing course which focuses on the communication of attitude, emotion, and personality expressed through gesture drawing. Proportion, motion, volume, balance, and basic anatomy will be addressed. Foundational material for anyone pursuing a career in character animation and/or illustration. Students will draw from nude and clothed models.
Credits : 1.5
AGA 205 Computer Animation I
The first semester of this course will explore contemporary 2D and 3D animation techniques and genres while keeping a strong focus on traditional techniques and aesthetics. Students will combine image, sound, and motion with importance placed on timing and performance. The focus will be on applying foundational animation techniques using industry-standard 3D software, Maya.
Credits : 3
AGA 206 Computer Animation II
The second semester of this course will continue the exploration of the 3D software package and will introduce joint based animation and rigging. Students are expected to build on their existing knowledge to create a 3D character, environment, and prop with continued focus on storytelling and design. They will establish a rudimentary understanding of basic kinematics of the human figure in animation and develop action analysis abilities (textual description, key pose creation, breakdown pose creation, and basic timing). Prerequisite: AGA205 Computer Animation I
Credits : 3
AGA 301 Game Art I
This course will teach students the concepts and fundamentals of creating two- and three-dimensional assets for games and how those assets are implemented. The students will also learn what software and techniques are used with different games and the concepts of how to apply those techniques in the current video game industry. Projects focus on developing higher level skills in model building, animation, color and lighting with an emphasis on implementing those assets in a game engine environment.
Credits : 3
AGA 302 Game Art II
The second semester of this course will expand on advanced game art asset production and techniques for implementing into game engine software. Students will practice building basic interactivity to demonstrate an understanding of designing rules and play. Projects will develop an original videogame concept, outline a “vertical slice” or proof of concept, then produce art assets and implement features for a playable prototype. Prerequisite: AGA301 Game Art I
Credits : 3
What You’ll Learn
Students who successfully complete the certificate will be able to create professional quality 3D models, computer graphics, and other game assets needed to build out an interactive level using industry-standard software.
- Earn 16.5 credits that can be applied to a Bachelor’s degree at PCA&D or beyond
- Tap into college learning resources and advisors
- Software from Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft, and Google professional tools
- Build your network and exposure through campus events and career opportunities
- Join the PCA&D alumni network
Career Opportunities
Certificate-holders will gain experience that’s needed in a diverse array of industries such as game art production, computer graphics, and interactive design. They will have access to entry-level design jobs in 2D and 3D graphics and game art.
Who Should Enroll
The program is designed for a wide range of individuals. College experience is not a prerequisite for this program, but a passion for working with computers is essential. High school and college graduates, veterans, professionals, and entrepreneurs will be among the students who bring their diverse perspectives to the program.
Cost
$1,157 per credit hour
A total of 16.5 credit hours are required. Credits will be billed per course.
How to Register
Enrolling in one of PCA&D’s Certificate Programs is simple. Confirm your intent to pursue one of our certificates by filling out an application.
If you have any questions regarding mapping out a plan, upcoming class schedules, or completing your certificate, please contact Bonnie Kern, our Admissions Transfer & Outreach Coordinator, at 717.396.7833 ext 1014 or email bkern@pcad.edu.