Do you love drawing or playing video games in your spare time? Are you curious how video games are created? If you’d like to turn your passion for cartoons into a career, our animation program is a perfect for you!
Allan Hancock College’s animation program provides students with both the traditional
and digital artistic skills that are at the center of the animation, visual effects,
and video gaming industries. Build your animation skills and portfolios in our state-of-the-art
studio equipped with iMac computers, Cintiq monitors, 3D printers, and much more.
With an associate degree in animation, students will be prepared for entry-level careers, such as a digital sculptor, application designer, cinematic layout artist, illustrator, visual effects artist, game artist, digital content creator, and many more. Hancock’s animation program graduates are currently employed in local firms and 3D modeling companies, large corporations like LinkedIn or self-employed as freelance designers and illustrators.
Graduates of the program may also transfer to a four-year university with a strong animation program, including CSU San Jose, CSU Long Beach or CSU Fullerton.
This program will help you to:
- generate multiple character designs and stories in response to a specific concept
- design and animate characters and environments for narrative and interactive projects
- plan and storyboard animated sequences for traditional and digital formats
- use animation techniques and principles expressively in creating short animated films
Suggested Course Sequence
The “Suggested Course Sequence” is an example of how to complete the requirements plus any additional general education that may be needed. If you would like to create a personalized Student Education Plan (SEP), schedule a meeting with a counselor.
Fall Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
This course is an introduction to the concepts, applications, and historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, including the study of basic design principles and elements. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lectures, studio projects, problem-solving, and writing assignments. This course covers the same content as Art 110, but projects are executed digitally using the computer. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for GRPH 108.
An introduction to animation production including classical character animation and other techniques. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for Art 115 or FILM 115.
A writing course designed primarily to meet the needs of students pursuing career and technical programs. Meets the written composition graduation requirement for an AHC associate's degree. Students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution will need to take ENGL 101 instead of this course to meet the university's first-year composition requirement. Readings will be drawn from the disciplines involved so that students master comprehension and critical reading skills in real-world texts. Writing assignments and projects will similarly be based upon the types of critical thinking and analytical writing required in the students' fields of study. Research methods and skills will be emphasized.
Prerequisite : Placement based upon Allan Hancock College's placement policy.
Designed to help students enhance their analytical reading and writing skills using a wide variety of texts. Emphasizes college-level expository essay construction, communication, and research methods leading to the preparation and writing of a research paper.
Select one course from this list.
Plus 12 units from one of the areas of concentration below (either A or B)
Option A: Emphasis in Animation
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MMAC 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| or | ||
| FILM 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| FILM 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| FILM 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| FILM 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
Option B: Emphasis in Games
Total Units:
13.5 -16
Spring Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Introduces students to the use of Apple computers and Adobe Photoshop for developing and editing digital images for use in graphic design, photography, web, video and motion graphics production. Students will learn raster image resolutions, file formats, color systems and professional creative practices for acquisition, creation, editing and processing for various industries including printing, digital publishing, animation, and video editing.
A study of 3D modeling as it applies to industrial design, packaging and animation. Topics include render theory and practices; and surface manipulation of objects. Polygonal and subdivision operations for 3D modeling will be stressed. 3D computer graphics will utilize programs such as Maya and Mudbox. Prior experience will raster and vector elements is desirable. This course is an elective for Applied Design/Media.
Plus 12 units from one of the areas of concentration below (either A or B)
Option A: Emphasis in Animation
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MMAC 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| or | ||
| FILM 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| FILM 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| FILM 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| FILM 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
Option B: Emphasis in Games
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Ethnic Studies 121
- History 107, 108, 118, 119, 121
- Political Science 101, 103
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Mathematics 100, 105, 121, 123, 131, 135, 141, 181, 182, 183, 184
Plus 12 units from one of the areas of concentration below (either A or B)
Option A: Emphasis in Animation
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MMAC 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| or | ||
| FILM 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| FILM 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| FILM 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| FILM 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
Option B: Emphasis in Games
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MMAC 114 | Game and App Design | 3 |
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| GRPH 130 | 3D Modeling For Production | 3 |
| MUS 115 | Introduction to Sound Recording & Mixing | 3 |
Total Units:
18-20
Fall Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
An introduction to the elements, principles, materials and techniques of drawing. Emphasis is placed on the practical skills of observation and their expansion, along with drawing as a form of visual communication.
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Anthropology 101, 110 (when taken in conjunction with 101)
- Astronomy 100
- Biology 100, 120, 124, 132
- Chemistry 110, 120
- Environmental Technology 101
- Food Science and Nutrition 110
- Geography 101, 115
- Geology 100, 111, 114, 115, 131, 141
- Physical Science 111, 112
- Physics 100
- Viticulture and Enology 102
If you take any of the following courses, you will also satisfy the Multicultural/Gender Studies requirement:
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Administration of Justice 101, 103, 115
- Anthropology 102, 103, 105, 107
- Business 121, 141
- Communications Studies 100, 110
- Early Childhood Studies 100, 101
- Economics 101, 102, 121, 141
- English 105, 150, 151,152, 153
- Ethnic Studies 101, 107, 150, 151,152, 153
- Geography 102, 103, 105
- Global Studies 141
- Graphics 127
- LGBT 101, 102
- Physical Education 128
- Political Science 101, 104, 105, 110
- Psychology 101, 112, 113, 117, 118, 119, 121
- Sociology 101, 102, 104, 120, 122, 155, 160
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Anthropology 107
- English 150, 151, 152, 153
- Ethnic Studies 101, 105, 107, 120, 121, 122, 150, 151, 152, 153
- Fashion 105
- Film 122
- History 120, 121
ALL courses in this category also fulfill the AHC Graduation Requirement: Multicultural and Gender Studies
Plus 12 units from one of the areas of concentration below (either A or B)
Option A: Emphasis in Animation
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MMAC 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| or | ||
| FILM 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3 |
| FILM 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| FILM 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3 |
| FILM 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3 |
Option B: Emphasis in Games
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MMAC 114 | Game and App Design | 3 |
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3 |
| GRPH 130 | 3D Modeling For Production | 3 |
| MUS 115 | Introduction to Sound Recording & Mixing | 3 |
Total Units:
18 - 19
Spring Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : ART 120
This course serves as an introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Studio assignments investigate the human body, its mass, and its movements through the modeling of form, planar analysis, cross-contour, and gesture drawing techniques. Human anatomy and proportional accuracy are emphasized, while expressive and interpretive approaches are explored by means of compositional design, a variety of drawing media, and surveying historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts.
The course explores how multimedia transforms experiences of creative expression and communication and impacts our cultural, business, and personal lives. Topics include project planning, development, and exploration through multiple projects. Projects include art for interaction, web imagery, animation, motion graphics, UI/UX, gaming, visual effects, video production, and transmedia storytelling. Course software: Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant software.
Hands-on instruction in the techniques and tools for adding dynamic motion and interactivity to games and applications for a variety of media devices. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers, tablets, phones, and other media devices.
Select one course from the list below.
- American Sign Language 138
- Art 101, 103, 104, 105, 109, 170
- Communication Studies 108
- Dance 101, 110, 120, 130, 147
- Drama 103, 110, 111
- Early Childhood Studies 116, 123
- English 102, 106, 117, 118, 119, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 138,139, 140, 144, 145, 146, 148, 180
- Ethnic Studies 105, 120, 122
- Fashion 104, 105
- Film 101, 102, 103, 104, 108, 109, 110, 122
- French 101, 102
- Graphics 127
- History 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 120, 138
- Humanities 101, 102, 103, 104, 105
- Library 180
- Multimedia Arts and Communication 101, 102
- Music 100, 101, 102, 104, 106
- Philosophy 101, 102, 105, 121, 122
- Photo 110
- Spanish 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 112
Select one course from the list below to fulfill the requirements for both GE Area 7: Living Skills and AHC Grad: Health Education and Safety.
- Early Childhood Studies 102
- Emergency Medical Services 102
- Food Science and Nutrition 109
- Health Education 100
- Personal Development 101
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Communication Studies 100, 101, 102, 106
- English 103, 104
- Philosophy 112, 114
Total Units:
18
Program Requirements:
"Program Requirements" specify the courses required for this program. See suggested course sequence for additional information.
A major of 36 units is required for the associate in science degree.
Required core courses (27 units):
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ART 108 | Design 1 on the Computer | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| GRPH 108 | Design 1 on the Computer | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| ART 115 | Introduction to Animation | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| FILM 115 | Introduction To Animation | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 115 | Introduction to Animation | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| ART 120 | Drawing 1 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| ART 122 | Life Drawing 1 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| FILM 117 | 3D Computer Animation 1 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 117 | 3D Computer Animation 1 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| GRPH 112 | Digital Imagery | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| MMAC 101 | Introduction to Multimedia | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| MMAC 114 | Game and App Design | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| GRPH 130 | 3D Modeling For Production | 3.000 - 0.000 |
Plus 9 units from one of the areas of concentration below (either A or B)
Option A: Emphasis in Animation
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| ART 107 | Introduction to Digital Art | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| MMAC 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| FILM 116 | Intermediate Animation | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| FILM 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| FILM 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| MMAC 128 | Intermediate Motion Graphics | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| MMAC 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| FILM 126 | Introduction to Motion Graphics | 3.000 - 0.000 |
Option B: Emphasis in Games
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MMAC 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| or | ||
| FILM 118 | 3D Computer Animation 2 | 3.000 - 0.000 |
| MUS 115 | Introduction to Sound Recording & Mixing | 3.000 - 0.000 |
Programs you may also be interested in exploring:
Contact Information
Department Information
John R. Hood, Department Chair
Professor of Art and Design
jhood@hancockcollege.edu
805-922-6966 ext. 3705
Darlene Vera
Administration Assistant II - Fine Arts
darlene.vera@hancockcollege.edu
805-922-6966 ext. 3252
Media Arts Faculty
Sian Geraghty, Assoc. Professor of Media Artssian.geraghty@hancockcollege.edu
805-922-6966 ext. 3252
Building F - Office F-203
