Computer Graphics / Interactive Digital Arts

Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a major in Computer Graphics//Interactive Digital Arts

(120 credit hours) Requirements are subject to change.

The computer graphics / interactive digital arts major at Springfield College is a hands-on art program that emphasizes three main areas of study: 3-D animation, multimedia design, and web design. These three areas prepare students with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete in the rapidly growing field of web design and animation.

Students will explore 3-D animation and Web design through the use of industry standard software. Advanced students will work on state-of-the-art equipment, creating artwork, graphic designs, 3-D animation, and websites. In the senior year, students will select an internship/ fieldwork placement. This will enable the student/computer artist to experience the job market—the “real world” of the computer graphic industry.

For more information about the computer graphics / interactive digital arts major, contact Professor Ruth West of the Visual and Performing Arts Department at (413) 748-3679 or by e-mail at Ruth_West@spfldcol.edu. Information is also available from the Admissions Office, (800) 343-1257.

Download a Computer Graphics/Interactive Digital Arts Program Checksheet

II. Major Requirements

In addition, select two of the following courses:

ARTS 232 - Character Development for 3D Animation and Video Games Credits: 3
ARTS 233 - 3-D Video Game Design Credits: 3
ARTS 260 - Advanced Studio in Computer Graphics Credits: 2-6
(Web)
Course may also be offered as
ARTS 260 - Advanced Computer Graphics (Flash Acting Scripting), or
ARTS 260 - Advanced Computer Graphics (Maya)

III. Electives (to complete a minimum of 120 credits)

Advanced Standing Standards

Advanced standing is an assessment by the faculty in the Visual and Performing Arts Department of the student’s readiness for advanced courses, various fieldwork experiences, and professional responsibilities. All computer graphics majors must qualify for advanced standing in the semester prior to completing advanced courses, fieldwork, internship, or practicum. Students may apply for advanced standing in October, February, or in certain cases, May. (Students planning to do an internship, practicum, or fieldwork in the fall semester must apply by the previous February—the May deadline will only allow students to enroll in certain advanced courses).

In order to achieve advanced standing, students must have a record of demonstrating standards of professional competency related to attendance, preparation, academic honesty, creativity, maturity, professional behavior, empathy towards others, attitude, and aesthetic awareness. Students must also meet the following acadmic standards:

A cumulative GPA of 2.500.
A 2.500 GPA in all program requirements.
A grade of C or better in all ARTS or ATPY courses.
Presentation of an individually designed resume, and a website portfolio of work or a disk of animation.

Once met, standards for advanced standing must be maintained to continue in the major. Students who do not achieve advanced standing by their 90th credit hour must change to another major. If the standards are eventually met, the student may petition the department’s Appraisal and Retention Committee to be readmitted. More information about advanced standing standards and the process to apply is available from the Visual and Performing Arts Department.

Academic Catalog