The Visual Effects & Motion Graphics program is designed to blend traditional visual design theory and practice with advanced digital tools to create compelling original moving images. A visual effects and motion graphics designer combines a variety of skills, including typography, color, layout, and design principles with audio, animation, compositing, and video technologies to create stunning and vivid computer-based visual effects and computer animations.

This program begins by teaching the fundamentals of design through rendering and drawing. Digital editing and lighting techniques are then introduced, followed by 3D animation, audio, and an in-depth study of compositing techniques. Finally, students can use the skills they have developed to organize a digital portfolio to showcase their talents and creativity to potential employers.

The related fields of motion graphics and compositing have become established areas of specialization in the broader field of digital graphics and have had a sustained presence in regionally diverse marketplaces. By combining graphic design, video, animation, compositing, and sound, graduates of this program will have the skills to create attention-grabbing visuals that inform and entertain. Upon graduation, students will have learned strong visual-effects skills along with theories and strategies for broadcast design.

Entry-Level Career Opportunities: Broadcast Graphics, Motion Graphics Designer, Multimedia Artist, Visual Effects Artist, Editor, Compositor, Matte Painter, 3D Modeler, 3D Effects Artist, 3D Texture Artist