Program Overview
The Visual Media Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program equips students with the artistic and technical skills to effectively communicate messages through digital photography and video technologies. The program covers a broad range of topics, including lighting techniques, digital imaging, video production, and audio design. Graduates are prepared for careers in various fields, such as photography, videography, graphic design, and marketing. The program offers a collaborative learning environment and encourages creativity, experimentation, and critical thinking.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Visual Media Associate of Applied Science (AAS):
- Objective: The program equips students with the artistic and technical skills needed to effectively communicate messages using visual storytelling through modern digital photography and video technologies.
- Description: The program delves into the theoretical foundation, practical skills, and business acumen crucial for success in digital storytelling. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the creative, technical, and professional aspects of visual media creation and production.
Outline:
- Content: The program covers a broad range of topics including:
- Technical Specialty Courses: Focus on lighting techniques, conceptual solutions, digital imaging, visual media production, audio production, and studio techniques.
- Related Instruction: Includes essential courses like Professional Practices, New Media, and Portfolio Development.
- Structure: The program is offered in a full-time format over 12 quarters, with a part-time option not available.
- Course Schedule:
- First Year: Classes are held Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM with an optional lab session from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on MW or TTH.
- Second Year: Classes are held Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Coursework:
Technical Specialty Courses:
- Professional Practices I: Introduces students to career paths, ethics, and working conditions in visual media.
- Conceptual Solutions I & II: Focus on creative problem-solving and research strategies to deliver effective visual communication solutions.
- Digital Imaging I, II, & III: Focus on digital image capture, editing, and manipulation using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
- Visual Media I, II, & III: Introduce video production techniques, post-production, and audio design using Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects.
- Studio Techniques I, II, & III: Delve into portrait, lifestyle, food, and product photography techniques and studio lighting controls.
- Audio Production I: Teaches critical listening, audio recording practices, and sound editing.
- Work Experience - Visual Media: Provides supervised internship opportunities for practical application of skills.
- Digital Imaging V: Focuses on creating motion graphics using Adobe After Effects.
Related Instruction:
- New Media I, II, & III: Explore the role of communication in new media and develop design and photography skills.
- Portfolio: Develop and design a professional portfolio showcasing creative abilities and career direction.
Assessment:
- Methods: The program utilizes various assessment methods including:
- Individual and group projects
- Critical analysis and evaluation
- Portfolio development
- Participation in class discussions
- Completion of assignments Some elements of evaluation include:
- Creativity and originality
- Technical proficiency
- Conceptual understanding
- Ability to communicate effectively through visual media
- Professionalism and presentation
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods: The program employs a variety of teaching methods including:
- Lectures and demonstrations
- Hands-on workshops
- Collaborative projects
- Guest speakers
- Field trips
- Individualized instruction
- Faculty: The program faculty consists of experienced professionals with expertise in various aspects of visual media creation and production.
- Unique Approaches: The program fosters a collaborative learning environment and encourages creativity, experimentation, and critical thinking.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the Visual Media AAS program are prepared for careers in various fields including:
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Graphic Designer
- Web Designer
- Content Creator
- Marketing Specialist
- Communications Specialist
- Opportunities: Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to work in various industries such as:
- Advertising
- Marketing
- Design
- Media
- Education
- Non-profit organizations
Other:
- Worker Friendly: The program offers class schedules designed to accommodate working adults.
- Portfolio Show: Students participate in a collaborative portfolio show to showcase their work and gain exposure to potential clients and employers.
Seattle Central College
Overview:
Seattle Central College is a thriving community college located in Seattle, Washington. Established over 50 years ago, it serves as the first community college in the city and has grown into a significant center for higher education. The college offers a wide range of programs, including bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, and professional certificates, designed to prepare students for diverse career paths and further academic pursuits.
Services Offered:
Seattle Central College provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success. These include:
Academic Advising:
Guidance and support for course selection, program planning, and career exploration.Career Services:
Assistance with resume writing, job searching, and career development.Counseling:
Mental health and wellness support for students.Financial Aid:
Information and assistance with financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.Placement for Classes:
Guidance on placement testing and course prerequisites.Student Support Services:
A variety of resources, including tutoring, disability support, veterans services, and emergency funding.Transfer Services:
Support for students transferring to four-year universities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Seattle Central College offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in various activities and connect with their peers. Some key aspects of campus life include:
Campus Attractions:
The college boasts various facilities, including an art gallery, dining options, and fitness centers.Campus Events:
A calendar of events featuring workshops, lectures, performances, and social gatherings.Student Leadership:
Opportunities for students to participate in student government, clubs, and organizations.Key Reasons to Study There:
Accessible and Affordable Education:
Seattle Central College provides high-quality education at a reasonable cost.Diverse Programs:
A wide range of academic programs cater to various interests and career goals.Supportive Environment:
The college fosters a welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.Strong Transfer Pathways:
Seattle Central College offers seamless transfer pathways to four-year universities.Community Engagement:
The college actively engages with the local community through various initiatives and partnerships.Academic Programs:
Seattle Central College offers a wide array of academic programs, including:
Arts, Design, and Graphics:
Programs in visual arts, graphic design, and digital media.Business and Accounting:
Programs in business administration, accounting, and entrepreneurship.Culinary, Hospitality, and Wine:
Programs in culinary arts, hospitality management, and wine studies.Education and Human Services:
Programs in early childhood education, social work, and human services.Health and Medical:
Programs in nursing, medical assisting, and healthcare administration.Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM):
Programs in biology, chemistry, computer science, and engineering.Skilled Trades and Technical Training:
Programs in welding, carpentry, and automotive technology.Social Sciences, Humanities, and Language:
Programs in history, literature, philosophy, and foreign languages.Other:
However, it is important to note that the program is designed for students who have a strong interest in visual storytelling and are eager to learn the technical skills necessary to succeed in the field.
- Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss their specific career goals and recommended coursework.
- The program is designed to be completed in four quarters (one year) for full-time students.
This will help them to be successful in their coursework and to communicate effectively with their classmates and instructors.
- Seattle Central College offers a variety of ESL courses for students of all levels.
Conclusion:
The Visual Media AAS program at Seattle Central College is a great option for students who are interested in learning the skills necessary for a successful career in visual storytelling. The program is open to students with diverse backgrounds and levels of experience, and there are no specific entry or language proficiency requirements. However, students are encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss their specific goals and to take advantage of the ESL courses offered by the college.
