Program Overview
The Animation and Game Art program at the University of Hartford equips students with the skills and knowledge to create visual art assets and animation for the animation, multimedia, and game design industries. Through a combination of traditional and digital art forms, students develop a strong foundation in the visual arts, animation principles, and industry-standard software. The program culminates in a senior project that simulates a real-world studio environment, preparing graduates for successful careers in the competitive animation and game design industries.
Program Outline
Students will gain a strong foundation in traditional arts while learning industry-standard software and technology.
Objectives:
- Build a strong foundation in the visual arts.
- Gain experience creating visual arts assets and animation for various industries.
- Develop design skills for 2D & 3D animation and art asset development.
- Prepare for a career in the visual development, asset creation, and time-based media markets.
Program Description:
The program incorporates both traditional and digital art forms, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the field. Students will learn animation principles, character design, storyboarding, 3D modeling and animation, and more. Additionally, they will acquire valuable skills in time management, professional communication, and portfolio development.
Outline:
Content:
- Introduction to Animation
- 3-D Game Art Studio
- Drawing For Illustration
- Digital Illustration
- Drawing For Animation & Games
- Storytelling & Sequential Art
- 3-D Illustration Studio OR Intermediate Animation
- 3-D Animation Studio OR Advanced Animation
- Senior Project
Structure:
The program consists of 123 credits, including core courses, elective courses, and a senior project.
Module Descriptions:
- Introduction to Animation: Introduces the fundamentals of animation principles, storytelling, and character design.
- 3-D Game Art Studio: Focuses on creating 3D models and textures for game development.
- Digital Illustration: Introduces digital painting and illustration techniques.
- Storytelling & Sequential Art: Explores storyboarding and comic book art.
- 3-D Illustration Studio OR Intermediate Animation: Students choose either to further develop their 3D illustration skills or delve deeper into animation.
- 3-D Animation Studio OR Advanced Animation: Another choice point, allowing students to specialize in either 3D animation or advanced animation techniques.
- Senior Project: A capstone project where students collaborate on a creative project, applying their skills and knowledge to a real-world scenario.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Assignments: Individual and group projects, critiques, and presentations.
- Examinations: Midterm and final exams will assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
- Senior Project: Assessed by faculty based on creativity, technical proficiency, and overall project execution.
Assessment Criteria:
- Technical skill and proficiency in using animation and game art software and tools.
- Creativity and originality of ideas and designs.
- Ability to meet deadlines and work effectively in a team environment.
- Quality of written and oral communication.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops.
- Individual and group critiques.
- Guest speakers from the animation and game industries.
Faculty:
The program features experienced and dedicated faculty with professional experience in the animation and game industries. They bring real-world insights and expertise to the classroom, ensuring students receive a high-quality education.
Unique Approaches:
- Focus on both traditional and digital art forms, providing a comprehensive education.
- Senior project simulates a real-world studio environment, preparing students for professional careers.
- Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and feedback from faculty.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- 2D/3D Animator
- Character Designer
- Storyboard Artist
- Concept Artist
- Texture Artist
- Game Designer
- Visual Development Artist
- Multimedia Artist
Career Opportunities:
- Animation studios
- Game development studios
- Advertising agencies
- Film and television studios
- Multimedia companies
Career Outcomes:
The program prepares graduates for successful careers in the competitive animation, game design, and visual development industries.
