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Computer Graphics Degrees

Computer graphics have become an everyday part of most people's lives, appearing on websites, video games, movies and television. In addition to entertainment and information contexts, computer graphics are commonly used in construction, manufacturing, civil engineering and industrial settings. Those who have the aptitude and skills to blend design and technology to create graphical representations can choose from among many interesting careers where they can use their creative and technical skills.

Job prospects for computer graphics professionals is expected to be very good for fields such as website design and multi-media advertising. However, competition for the most sought after jobs in video game development and entertainment is expected to be intense. Those who have the most advanced and relevant education will fill the most sought-after jobs.

Degree Options

Associate's Degree – Those with an associates degree in Computer Graphics will gain hands-on skills that will prepare them for entry-level jobs in the computer graphics field.
Bachelor's Degree – Bachelor's degrees in Computer Graphics will enable graduates to work as designers and developers in many industries.
Master's Degree – Master's level programs are designed for those who already have significant education and experience in computer science. A Master's degree will position an individual to take a leadership role in a variety of computer graphics settings.

Note that Computer Graphics degree programs have various names such as "Digital Media Design and Animation","Multi-Media and Visual Communication", "Computer Animation" and "Computer Graphics and Game Technology".

Schools

Associates degrees in computer graphics are often offered by technical and career colleges and by community colleges. Bachelor's and Master's degrees are typically offered by the Computer Science or Computer Engineering department of a university. A number of online schools offer various degrees in computer graphics.

Coursework

Computer Graphics majors will often take core computer science programming, database and systems analysis courses in addition to courses such as those listed below:

Web Interface Design
Computer Graphics Programming
Designing for Visualization and Communication
Graphics for Manufacturing
Computer Animation
Game and Simulation Development
Principles of Creative Design
Human Computer Interface Theory and Design
Drawing, Acting and Scripts for Animation
Applied Editing Techniques
Digital 3D Modeling

Courses will vary depending on the program and the type of work the student wants to do once they have graduated. For instance, courses taken by a future game designer would differ significantly from those taken by someone who plans to work in the manufacturing industry.

Aptitudes and Interests

People who are spatially adept, good at math and think and communicate visually are at a natural advantage in this field. Attention to detail and ability to focus on complex problems are also aptitudes that will help a graphic designer succeed. A strong interest in the field they plan to work in such as gaming, movies, advertising or construction is also important.

Career Options

An variety of industries employ computer graphics professionals, providing a variety of opportunities for these specialists such as:

Video Game Designer
Web Site Designer
Computer Graphic Designer
Movie Animator
Computer Aided Design (CAD) Specialist
Technical Illustrator

Related Majors

Graphic Design
Computer Science
Software Engineering
Computer Forensics
Film and Media Studies

How To Evaluate Computer Graphics Degree Programs

There are a limited number of Computer Graphic degree programs available, and although the core skills required are the same, each specialty area requires its own specific skills and knowledge. Given these constraints, the following considerations should be assessed:

Career Goals – Given the variety of specialization options, choosing a program that supports one's career goals should be a primary consideration.
Technology - Technology changes quickly so prospective students should make sure the program they choose uses the most current software and methodologies available.
Options - Schools that offer a variety of computer science degrees are most likely to provide a well-rounded education as well as provide other options if a student changes their career goals.

Free Online Courses

Below are some free online Computer Graphics courses that give a good sense of what a degree program would be like:

Harvard University Extension School: Introduction to Computer Graphics
Web Design from Scratch: Use of 3D Effects in Web Design
Computer Graphics Lectures on YouTube

Resources

Association for Computing Machinery's Special Interest Group on Graphics and Interactive Techniques

Computer Graphics Society of Digital Artists

International Game Developers Association

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