Career Information

"Video game design is a good field for women because the number of female gamers is constantly growing. Including a feminine perspective in the process should generate content and systems that speak more to that gender. Basically, with more women gamers, it makes sense to have more women designing."

Career Path: Graduates of the certificate and AA degree programs with strong portfolios may be hired into job titles such as Video Game Tester, Photo Artist, Production Assistant, Character Animator, Modeler, Background Artist, Rigger, Texture Artist, and Storyboard Artist. Students are required to complete a course in portfolio development to ensure a top quality portfolio, as this is the most important item looked at by potential employers

Initial positions may be internships or part-time temporary positions. Full-time job offers usually follow within months for workers who are committed and show talent. Some graduates go to work for large companies, where they can progress to jobs with increased responsibilities and/or on to management positions. Many graduates in the game development field work as independent contractors and freelancers. It’s common for workers in this industry to change jobs frequently.

Nature of the Work: The work is artistic and creative, and involves problem-solving. Although much work is done using computer software, basic pen and paper drawing skills may be required in some positions or to develop and describe initial concepts. The work involves team work and collaboration with others, and may involve long hours and deadlines during rush periods.

Work Environment: The physical environment depends on the company, but typically is an office environment with a computer and hand drawing tools. Offices tend to be informal – often with individually decorated work spaces – to support the creative process and interaction.

Specific Jobs Available to Graduates: Graduates of both the certificate and AA degree programs can expect entry level work or above, depending on the work they can demonstrate in the portfolio they develop during the program. This course prepares graduates to hold jobs in positions such as:

Industries Employing Graduates of this Program: Animation production companies, video gaming companies, educational products, educational software, corporate training products, web animation companies, web-based application developers, military training (“serious games”), television stations, film and video production companies.

Women in Gaming Associations
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Course Information

Course Description: Degrees or certificates offered:

• AA Degree: 3D Animation and Video Game Art
• Certificate of Proficiency: 3D Animation and Video Game Art

Content covered in basic instruction:

Visit the main 3D Animation and Game Design website for more information.
View a complete list of multimedia courses.

Prerequisites: This program has no official prerequisites; however, at least an intermediate knowledge of the computer and graphics software programs is recommended. Some students find the following courses helpful:

View course descriptions for these two classes.

While it is not a prerequisite to have gaming knowledge, many employers expect job applicants to have experience playing games. Those with interior and fashion design skills will find themselves at an advantage, as many games require multiple set designs and character costume changes.

Hours Offered: This program includes classes offered during the day, evening, and occasional Saturdays. Some courses are offered online. Class offerings and schedules vary by semester.

Length of 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 Associate of Arts (AA ) degree requires 60 units. This can be completed in two years, but many students take longer.

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