Career FAQs

Occupational outlook. Are employers hiring for jobs in this area?
Yes, definitely! The entertainment field and the video gaming industry have grown very quickly in recent years. Employers are always looking for candidates who have a solid portfolio and educational background. The San Francisco Bay Area has several large companies in this industry. Two of the largest 3D animation and video gaming companies, Electronic Arts and PDI Dreamworks, are right in Redwood City. Pixar Animation Studios and LeapFrog, an interactive educational product designer, are located in Emeryville. Dozens of spin off and support companies have proliferated in the region adding to the demand for highly qualified employees. We help our students build portfolios through their student and personal projects, and advise them about how the industry works so they enter the job market prepared and with realistic expectations.

Technology background. Can I pursue a career in this field without a background in technology?
Yes, you can. However, it may help to be comfortable using a computer and to have some basic skill with a graphics software program when you enter the program. If you are concerned about your background and skills, discuss with your academic counselor whether taking an Introduction to Computers course and/or an introductory graphics course makes sense for you prior to enrolling in the program.

Receptivity to hiring women. Will employers hire women into male-dominated technology areas?
Absolutely! The employers in the gaming industry who serve on our industry advisory council tell us they would like to hire more women because of the unique perspective they bring. And the demand for games directed toward women has increased, so women are also needed to help meet that demand. Of course, employers are always looking for the most qualified candidates to fill their jobs, so it’s important to prepare yourself for each job interview and bring a portfolio that shows your best work. We offer assistance during the program in developing and presenting your portfolio and job interviewing.

Jobs available. What kinds of jobs can I get with a certificate and with an A.S. degree?
Graduates of both the certificate and AA degree programs in 3D Animation and Video Game Art can expect entry level work or above, depending on the work they can demonstrate in their portfolios. Graduates may be hired into entry level jobs such as Video Game Tester, Photo Artist, Production Assistant, Character Animator, Modeler, Background Artist, Rigger, Texture Artist, and Storyboard Artist. Some entry level jobs may be part-time or temporary for the first few months, but once you prove yourself a full-time job offer is likely.

Salaries. What kind of salary can I expect?
Salaries vary depending on the company, the geographic area, and the portfolio of the candidate. In the Bay Area, entry level jobs such as Video Game Tester may offer $11 to $15 per hour. Intern positions as an artist may pay up to $24 per hour. The average full-time wage at placement is $40,000 to $55,000. For experienced workers this range increases to $60,000 to $80,000, with higher salaries reported for management level positions.

More information. Where can I learn more about technology careers and what they're like for women?
Read articles about women in Gaming careers on the Home page of our website for starters, and check out our Women in Gaming Associations and Women in Technology links for more information. You can also network with other women at a Women in Games International meeting, and read our Women’s Success Stories about other women in this and related fields.

Academic FAQs

Math skills. How much math do I really need?
There are no specific math prerequisites for the 3D Animation and Video Game Art program.

Technology skills. How can I prepare for the program if I don't have a background in technology?
Although this program has no prerequisites, we recommend at least an intermediate knowledge of the computer and graphics software programs. Some students find the following courses helpful:

• mART 314 Introduction to Computer Graphics
• mART 376 Digital Imaging I

Cañada College’s Learning Center has software programs available on multiple computers for learning and practice purposes. Visit the CalWomenTech Learning Library under “Boost Your Skills.”

Courses required. How can I find out what courses I need to take for the Gaming program?
Visit the 3D Animation and Video Game Design web page for details about the courses required. Then discuss any questions you have with your academic counselor.

Placement tests. Are placement tests required for this program?
Students entering an associate degree or certificate program must take a placement test to determine their math, reading, and English level. These tests are computerized, are not timed, and take from 45 minutes to 1-1/2 hours to complete. View Placement Test and Assessment Information on the Cañada College website.

Length of program. How long will it take to complete the Gaming program?
The certificate program requires 34.5 units. Some students complete the certificate program in one year (two semesters), but others spread out coursework over a longer period due to family, work, and other obligations. The AA degree requires 60 units, which can be completed in two years, but again many students spread their classes over a longer time period to meet their personal needs.

High school preparation. Can I prepare myself for a technology program at Cañada College while I’m still in high school?
If you’re interested in this field you will want to develop comfort and skill using a computer, and learn a graphics software program. You can also enroll in the following introductory courses at Cañada College while you’re still in high school:

• mART 314 Introduction to Computer Graphics
• mART 376 Digital Imaging I

Childcare FAQs

Child care. Where can I get child care assistance for when I'm at school or work?
Students who qualify for some types of financial aid may also qualify for funding for childcare assistance. Visit the Counseling Center for details. You can find out about childcare options in the nearby vicinity by contacting the Early Childhood Education program at Cañada at 650-306-3404. Cañada College does not have an onsite childcare facility.

Financial Aid FAQs

Finances. How can I get financial aid?
Cañada College's Financial Aid Office informs students and parents of all the financial aid resources available to them at Cañada as well as at other institutions. Financial aid counselors help students explore financial options such as scholarships, grants, loans, work study programs, rental and loaner books, and other support resources necessary for them to fulfill their educational goals. Most information is available in Spanish, and other language needs are also accommodated.

To explore financial aid services at Cañada College, visit or contact:

Financial Aid Office
Building 9, Room 109
4200 Farm Hill Boulevard
Redwood City, CA 94061-1030
650.306.3307
http://canadacollege.edu/admissions/financial.html