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Degree Programs > Arts & Sciences > New Media Arts

New Media Arts

Level 1 - Content Template for Degree Programs - New Media Arts

The New Media Arts Program offers an Associate in Science degree in three specializations. The New Media Arts curriculum prepares students for employment in the fields of animation, interactive computer graphics, interface design including dynamic Web design, information architecture and the converging industries that require advanced skills in multimedia design and production.

Level 2 - Content Template for Degree Programs Sub-Page

Earning a degree in New Media Arts at KCC prepares students for the next step. Our New Media Arts students have been highly successful in finding jobs in industry or in transferring to UH Manoa, as well as to art schools and universities on the Mainland. All New Media Arts courses are based on industry standards and provide students the opportunity to produce work that is relevant to contemporary industry. For graduating students, on-campus practicum classes and off-campus internships provide a transition to professional activity.

In addition to the specialized coursework, New Media Arts students take traditional media classes, such as painting, drawing, sculpture, design, photography, and art history. These fine arts classes provide a deeper understanding of visual form in two and three dimensions and enhance students' conceptual understanding of art.

Students may choose among three specializations for the Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in New Media Arts

Animation: The Animation specialization prepares students for careers in 3D computer animation, video game development, digital post-production and special effects. Animation course topics include film analysis and storytelling, digital painting, lighting and rendering and gaming. Additional topics include digital imaging, animation history, compositing and demo reel development. Animation courses are taught using Academy Award winning Maya 3D animation and effects software.

Interface Design: The Interface Design specialization prepares students for careers as Web designers, interactive CD-ROM, DVD and kiosk designers. Interface Design course topics include interface design, dynamic Web design, typography, graphic symbolism, motion graphic design, and information architecture. Additional courses include digital imaging, design history and portfolio development.

Information Architecture: The Information Architecture specialization prepares students for careers in content development such as Web information design, e-commerce marketing and writing for multimedia. Information Architecture courses include a range of Interface Design courses in addition to courses in business, marketing and programming.

Personalized attention enables our students to achieve their peak potential. New Media Arts faculty provide counseling and guidance for students as they finish their degree and move into industry or transfer to programs providing a bachelors degree. As part of their course work, students receive individual assistance in planning career strategies, résumés and portfolios. Those that choose to continue their education receive individualized assistance in planning transferable course work and completing the application process.

The NMA students have great things to say about the program at KCC.

"The New Media Arts program at KCC has really exceeded my expectations. I feel fortunate to have found a program as comprehensive as this so close to home (and at a bargain price!). It is exciting to work with the latest modeling, animation and video applications, but I was most impressed by the background, competence and talent of the instructors and staff, who work hard to keep abreast of current trends in the industry and meet the needs of the individual students."
Beverly Mukai

"I've been making art the 'old-fashioned' way for years. The New Media Arts program puts another set of tools in my hands, ones that are not only exciting to work with, but have useful applications for both fine art and commercial design. I will have a way to make and market prints of my paintings, and I hope to be able eventually to use my design skills for things like educational CD-ROMs or interactive museum displays."
Barbara Taylor

"Wanted: Students who want to learn real world skills in a high tech learning facility! If you have a passion for learning skills that are useful and in-demand in today's world, then check out the New Media Arts Program. It's packed with brilliant teachers and the latest software that professionals use in today's field. The opportunities for learning are unlimited."
Paul Arakaki

"Being involved in the New Media Arts program at Kapi'olani Community College has been a rewarding experience for me. Not only are the instructors extremely knowledgeable, but they are always willing to take the time to meet with students outside of class. The small class sizes create a setting where the dialogue among students and instructors guarantees you intimate knowledge of the subject studied, and involves you in a community that is dedicated to creating new and exciting design."
Julia Marrack

"Before hearing about the New Media Arts Program at KCC, I had thought that the mainland was the only way to go to expand one's creativity into the digital age. Being able to learn multimedia art at home was a huge advantage for me, especially having been a fan of computers, video gaming, and art for many years, but not having any type of schooling for a combination of those things available, I never thought it possible to pursue an education in said field. This program gave me the chance to learn the latest software as well as techniques for use in the industry, and to pursue an education in a field I was interested in."
Jesse Hookano

Would you like to learn more about the New Media Arts degrees at KCC? Students like you have many questions in common. See our FAQs or contact us directly.

For information about NMA credit courses:
Teri Durland
New Media Arts Counselor
734-9290
tdurland@hawaii.edu

For information about NMA non-credit courses:
Program Coordinator for Arts and Science Continuing Education
Michael La Riccia
734-9315
lariccia@hawaii.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a New Media Arts major?
Students enroll at KCC as New Media Arts majors. Once they have completed their prerequisite classes, they apply to their area of specialization: Animation, Interface Design, or Information Architecture. The application for the A.S. goes through a review process. Upon approval, students are selected into their area of specialization for the A.S. in New Media Arts. Selection for the A.S. degree is competitive.

How do I apply to KCC?
Fill out a general application form available at the Admissions Office or online (Link to University System admissions site). For more information on applying call 734-9559.

Do I need to buy a computer?
The New Media Arts Computer Labs are equipped with all the software and computer equipment you need to complete your course assignments.

What multimedia software is available in the New Media Arts Computer Labs?
The New Media Arts Computer Labs are equipped with a wide variety of multimedia software used for both credit and non-credit courses. This software includes:
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe After Effects
Adobe Premiere
Macromedia Flash
Macromedia Director
Macromedia Dreamweaver
Spin Panorama QTVR
Spin Object QTVR
Alias Maya

I work and cannot enroll as a full-time student. Is there a time limit on how long I can work toward my degree?
Many A.S. students work part-time or full-time while attending KCC. As long as you are continuously enrolled, you may progress through your program of study at your own pace.

I plan to transfer to a four-year college. Will I be able to apply my New Media Arts credits to that degree?
KCC art transfer students have been very successful in transferring their course credits to art schools and universities in Hawai'i and abroad.

I already have a four-year degree. Can I become an A.S. student? Will any of my credits count toward a New Media Arts degree?
Many currently enrolled New Media Arts students already have degrees. Their credits are evaluated in the same way as credits of other transfer students.

How is custom non-credit training developed for businesses and/or professional groups?
Businesses meet with our non-credit coordinator and curriculum developer, who assess their needs for employee training. A competency-based course is then created and scheduled at the business's convenience.

What kinds of customized non-credit training are available?
New Media Arts offers multimedia courses in a wide variety of subject areas including:
Computer Animation
Web Design
Digital Photography
Multimedia Business Presentations

Where are credit and non-credit courses taught?
Scheduled credit and non-credit courses are held in New Media Arts Computer Labs. Custom classes meet either in a New Media Arts Lab at Kapi'olani Community College or on-site where employees learn in their workplace environment.