Program Information

The computer graphics/digital arts major at Springfield college is a comprehensive art program that emphasizes three main areas of study: animation, graphic and web design. This provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete in the rapidly growing field of animation, visual communication and web design. Students explore 3-D animation, visual communication, graphic and web design using computer software, peripherals, 3-D printers, virtual reality, and current media technologies. Advanced students are given an internship/fieldwork placement opportunity enabling them to experience the job market firsthand.

Degree Information

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

(120 credit hours) Requirements are subject to change.

Contact Information

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

Curricular Requirements

General Education Program (40 - 46 credits)

The General Education program at Springfield College is informed by its century-old Humanics tradition of educating the whole person in spirit, mind, and body, for leadership in service to humanity. These requirements have the goal of developing literate, thoughtful, socially responsible students, and instilling in them a spirit of inquiry into the nature of humankind and the universe. Towards those ends, the requirements emphasize and encourage: the acquisition of knowledge, understanding, and competency essential for the improvement of the human condition in a diverse society; a search for personal and spiritual values; and the development of an understanding and appreciation of physical well-being. 

For specific requirements, see the General Education Program (40 - 46 credits)  section.

II. Major Requirements

III. Suggested Electives

IV. 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 academic standards:

1. A cumulative GPA of 2.500.
2. A 2.500 GPA in all program requirements.
3. A grade of C or better in all ARTS or ATPY courses.
4. 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.