Polytech offers three specialty Art & Visual Communication programs: 3D Computer Animation, Commercial Arts & Advertising Design, and Graphic Design.
Click on the links to learn more
about each program.
The 3D Computer Animation program is a two-year program that covers color and design, the history of animation, careers in an animation studio, the principles of animation, and software in the 2D and 3D animation industries. This program uses Autodesk Maya, which is one of the most powerful software programs used in the industry. To prepare for this exciting industry, students in the first year will establish a fine arts foundation by drawing and painting from life observation. The first-year program will also include designing and creating concept art, characters, storyboards, backgrounds, environments, and animation sequences. Through these exercises, students will begin to build a solid portfolio. During the second year, students will explore ZBrush software, enhance their skills in Autodesk Maya, and learn about anatomy for character development and accurate animation sequences.
The Commercial Arts and Advertising Design program is a two-year program covering color and design, fine art, computer software, and careers one can have as an artist/designer. During the first year, students explore commercial arts by designing and creating drawings, paintings, and digital artwork including logos, t-shirts, murals, advertisements, brochures, banners, greeting cards, and menus using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop AfterEffects and InDesign software. Students draw and paint from life observation in pastels, watercolor, acrylic and charcoal to begin to build a solid portfolio. Field trips, guest speakers, and production of freelance work for clients are important components of the program.
The Graphic Design program is a two-year program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to enter the fields of graphic design, advertising, and digital multimedia. Students learn analysis and research of typography, layout and composition, color theory, and software skills. Students will also develop basic skills in two-dimensional design, color, and content creation while employing the design process of research, sketching, and experimentation. Assignment focus is on logo, brochure and poster design, branding, advertising, packaging, photography, and web design. Using industry standard equipment and software programs, such as the Adobe Creative Suite, students will develop marketable skill sets and begin to develop a professional portfolio. Students will have the opportunity to begin working on in-house and real-world jobs by working directly with clients from local area businesses.