3D Art and Animation Associate Degree

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3D Art and Animation

Program Number: 102072

Your Degree: Associate Degree

Estimated Time to Complete: 61 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years

Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person

Area of Study: Arts, Design and Humanities

Estimated Program Cost: $11,232.32

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Program Overview
Gain professional skills in traditional and digital 3D animation and concept planning and development.
The 3D Art and Animation classes at Madison College will provide you with a broad foundation of skills in:
Concept drawing and layout
Figure/life drawing for concept work
Concept presentation
Digital modeling, texturing, rigging and animation
Level design and construction
Asset creation and management
Digital lighting and cinematography
Graduating students have the opportunity to apply for professional internships and mentorships, and create a professional portfolio and demo reel.
Program Details
Students in the Animation program must attend classes full time.
Animation classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
Careers in 3D Art and Animation
Earning your associate degree in the 3D Art and Animation program at Madison College prepares you for valuable work as a:
Animator
Technical Animator
Rigger
Environment Artist
3D Modeler
Texture/Surface Artist
Technical Artist
Concept Artist
You will also be prepared for work as a 3D artist in the following industries:
Advertising
Architecture
Broadcasting
Entertainment
Game Design
Instructional
Medical and Scientific
Multimedia Production
Printing/Publishing
Product Design Development
Web Design
Program Courses

Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
Prior to Start of Term
10-207-112
2D Fundamentals
An introduction to Photoshop as used in professional 3D asset creation and concept development. File organization, efficiency, capture, and best practices are discussed, as well as basic texture creation, tiling, and interaction with 3D software.
2 credits
10-207-113
3D Fundamentals
Students will begin with the basics of a 3D interface including selecting and manipulating objects, understanding Cartesian space as well as exploring best practices for organizing and structuring a 3D scene. Students will also be introduced to basic modeling tools and basic animation tools as a preparatory stage to the Modeling One and Animation One courses in the Animation Program Curriculum. This course will direct students towards building a solid understanding of the concepts, terms and workflows required to create professional level 3D assets for film and games.
2 credits
First Semester
10-801-195
Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
3 credits
10-207-103
Basic Drawing for Concepting
An introductory drawing course emphasizing visualization and rendering skills necessary for concept development in animation and digital 3D. Students will learn the fundamentals of perspective, proportion, linear rendering, basic value structure, and digital approaches currently practiced in related industries. Lecture/demonstration and guided practice leads students toward the creation of concept drawings intended for modeling in 3D, including the development of variations, digital techniques to enhance productivity, and discussion of the strengths and limitations of 3D final execution.
2 credits
10-207-110
Animation 1
General overview of professional animation, including current industry standards and practices. Students begin a basic study of motion dynamics based largely on the industry's “Fundamental Principles of Animation,” presented through a combination of lecture and demonstration and continual analysis of existing professional animation. Contemporary standards, definitions, workflows, etc., are discussed as well as job organization and job-tracking skills, and translation of basic motion principles into digital 3D space.
2 credits
10-207-111
Texturing 1
A foundation introduction to digital 3D. Students learn to organize electronic files and projects into a professional workflow, and to electronically navigate Cartesian space. Class activities include the basics of digital modeling and surfacing, and the translation of 2D prep-work into 3D prototypes.
2 credits
10-207-114
Modeling 1
This course is an introduction to the fundamental techniques, theories, workflows and software as it relates to 3D modeling for real-time and pre-rendered production. Students will create digital models with an emphasis on topographical density, texture mapping, multi-step processes and asset design. Lectures and projects consist of the various production techniques that explore polygonal modeling and how to prepare constructed models for texturing.
2 credits
10-207-115
Technical Skills 1
This course teaches skills in computer hardware and Microsoft Windows and technical skills required by production studios. Topics include best practices for file storage and backup, how to manage files via source control software, how to use task tracking and asset review software, as well as technical concepts used within 3D applications.
2 credits
10-207-139
Design & Color for Concepting
An introduction to the fundamental principles of design and how they relate to both 2D and 3D environments. The course examines differences in interpretation when design principles are applied to a variety of 2D and 3D scenarios. The second half of the semester introduces primary, secondary and tertiary colors leading to an in-depth exploration of color theory and how these concepts relate to 3D media.
2 credits
Second Semester
10-801-196
Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
3 credits
10-207-117
Figure Drawing for Concepting
An introduction to drawing the human figure for the purpose of creating concept art for 3D industries. Course syllabus includes approaches to gestural sketching, proportional and anatomical construction, complete figure studies, and digital techniques for making corrections, variations, and enhancing productivity based on current 3D industry practices.
3 credits
10-207-124
Concepting 1
Intensive study of the process of developing visual concepts for 3D execution. Course Traditional and digital drawing techniques cover the design of architectural, mechanical, vehicle, and other assets related to the creation of credible and functional 3D environments.
2 credits
10-207-148
Digital Cinematography
This course explores design principles and techniques through the lens of light, color, and composition. Students will be exposed to the concepts and practical application of digital cinematography by applying lighting rigs to 3D subjects, emphasizing elements of an image through atmosphere, perspective, camera positions to clearly communicate a narrative, capturing scenes both still and in motion.
1 credit
Animation Track:
10-207-120
Animation 2
Continuation of the study of motion with emphasis on character movement and animation. A combination of lectures and class demonstration introduces students to forward- and inverse-kinematics, and gradually more complex rigging. The continued study of body mechanics and dynamics by analyzing classic and contemporary professional animation will assist students in translating their own ideas into credible motion in digital form.
2 credits
10-207-123
Animation Technical Skills 2
This course teaches skills related to the digitizing of real-world motion to 3D character animation. Students will learn fundamental motion capture concepts and skills related to digitizing and working with digitized data.
2 credits
10-207-125
Cinematics
Explore the tools and techniques for animating characters in film and real-time cinematic cutscenes. Students focus on creating animations that show character and appeal through facial animation, poses, and timing and teaches common techniques for animating in a pose-to-pose workflow.
2 credits
3D Artist Track:
10-207-224
Modeling 2
This course is an advanced modeling class focusing on specific techniques for creating hard surface models. Hard surfaced models are defined in this course as man-made or machined objects, examples might include helmets, wind turbines, robots or furniture. Building on the concepts of Modeling 1, students will be required to design, research, model, texture and light various hard surface projects over the course of the semester.
2 credits
10-207-122
Texturing 2
A continuation of Texturing 1, this course moves students into more complex modeling and surfacing challenges. Specialized techniques such as patch- and advanced spline-modeling are explored as well as specialized shaders, normal maps, and other advanced surfacing options. Students complete the semester with the design and creation of a complex, multi-part object correctly constructed, linked and boned for advanced animation techniques.
2 credits
10-207-128
Digital Sculpting
Introduces the fundamentals of digital sculpting. Students learn to shape and refine organic forms by pushing and pulling digital clay, focusing on structure, volume, silhouette, and surface detailing. Through classical observation techniques and hands on work with industry standard tablets, students build the skills to recreate and invent expressive digital sculptures.
2 credits
Third Semester
10-804-107
College Mathematics
This course reviews key math concepts in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, measurement, and data. Topics include simplifying algebraic expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities with one variable, proportions, and percent applications, and working with geometric figures. It covers the Pythagorean Theorem, trigonometric ratios, and unit conversions between U.S. customary and metric systems. Data analysis focuses on organizing and summarizing data, central tendency, and measures of dispersion. Emphasis is on problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.
3 credits
10-809-197
Contemporary American Society
This is an interdisciplinary course covering issues that illustrate how our traditional institutions (such as family, education, media, the workplace, the economy and government) are being changed by global political, demographic, multicultural and technological trends. By exploring contemporary issues, students expand their use of critical-thinking skills.
3 credits
10-207-151
Concepting 2
Intensive study of the process of developing visual concepts for 3D execution, with concentration on the development of character and creature ideas for 3D execution. Traditional and digital drawing techniques cover the design of functional body-mechanics, personality traits and other aspects related to creating the illusion of life.
2 credits
10-207-137
Pre-Production
Students examine and determine what art content they’ll need to create in their fourth semester to have a successful art portfolio upon graduation. Popular time management tools, agile frameworks and methodologies are taught. By the end of this course students will have built their production schedule built for Production 1 and one portfolio quality asset.
2 credits
Animation Track:
10-207-131
Animation 3
By exploring various off-computer techniques for analyzing character motion, students practice translating their observations into digital form and applying them to their own creations. Extensive study of actual footage and professional work helps students make the conceptual transition from real-world to believable virtual motion.
2 credits
10-207-135
Real-Time Animation 1
Students study processes for transferring animation content from digital content creation applications into game-engines. Topics include creating interactive animations for environment objects, state machine logic and implementation, and character movement through a first-person perspective.
2 credits
10-207-140
Technical Skills 3
This course covers core concepts and skills required to build animation rigs. Topics include skeletal creation, deforming meshes, custom attributes, node-network workflows, scene organization, and various transform constraints. Content creation is focused on production pipelines that target real-time applications.
2 credits
3D Artist Track:
10-207-134
Modeling 3
A continuation of modeling skills developed in first two semesters with concentration in creating character and creature models correctly structured for rigging and animation. Realistic and stylized designs are explored as well as advanced UV and basepage techniques.
2 credits
10-207-130
Digital Set Design 1
Students concentrate on the planning and construction of architectural and environmental spaces in game-engine software. Basic architectural principles as they relate to animation and appropriate effects for specific themes are explored as well as environmental factors relating to the creation of credible worlds. Class activities include the exploration of specialized perspective problems, world-specific texture-sets, lighting and composition.
2 credits
10-207-136
Texturing 3
Students explore more complex surfacing techniques for video games, film, and animation. Lessons will cover in depth material node and UV exploration to enable students to create surfaces that animate, glow, interact, and maintain high fidelity regardless of scale. Other topics include VFX in videos games, real-time performance, and portfolio presentation.
2 credits
Fourth Semester
10-809-199
Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
3 credits
10-207-141
Production 1
Production Studio is an advanced course in multiple aspects of digital 3D motion. The focus of this course is to develop more intricate and complex character and mechanical animation.
3 credits
10-207-146
Production 2
This course is a continuation of Production 1. Students continue to refine their art portfolios, while working within a studio production structure. By the end of this course, students will have an art portfolio that is ready for public display.
3 credits
10-207-147
Post-Production
Post-Production focuses on the rendering and presentation of 3D content and job preparedness. Students apply digital cinematography techniques while learning color management, video-editing, and other post-processing techniques. Students complete the course with an online portfolio and resume.
2 credits
Animation Track:
10-207-158
Real Time Animation 2
Create animations and state-machines for non-player and third-person player characters. Additional topics include real-time facial animation and creating cinematic using scripted character animations, cameras, and effects.
2 credits
3D Artist Track:
10-207-168
3D Digital Set Design 2
Discuss in-engine animation and playback. Students further their studies in architectural principles, interior and exterior lighting, textures and fine-tuning the final appearance of a functional digital environment.
2 credits
How to Apply
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Limited Seats Available!
This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
Program capacity: 18 spots each Fall
Estimated Wait Time: 0-1 year
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Learn more in the After You Apply section on this page.
Application Dates
Fall 2027
Application available on October 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Official transcripts must be sent from the institutions you attended and indicate one of the following:
High school transcript (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
GED/HSED transcript
College transcript(s) showing:
Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
3. Residency Requirement
Per Wisconsin Statute TCS-10 because this program has a waitlist:
Out-of-state residents (except Minnesota residents*) are not eligible for admission consideration to this program
Non-district state residents
May only be considered after January 1 for the upcoming fall term
*Minnesota residents are considered non-district state residents for admission purposes
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your 3D Art and Animation career.
It's Free to Apply
After You Apply
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
Priority does not guarantee a spot in the program.
You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists and Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Career Outcomes
After completing the Animation program at Madison Area Technical College, you will be able to:
Demonstrate competence in the technical and aesthetic skills necessary to meet challenges in the animation profession.
Apply the principles and theories necessary to contribute to the creation of professional animation in a business setting.
Apply critical thinking skills to solve complex problems and demonstrate effective organization in a high-pressure workplace.
Communicate effectively and professionally using appropriate media, including written, verbal, graphic and electronic communications.
Demonstrate creativity, innovation and flexibility in order to work successfully in a continuously changing animation business environment.
Assume responsibility for continuing education in order to maintain, expand and enhance professional and artistic growth.
Demonstrate the ability to work effectively with colleagues in a team setting and understand workflow processes in a business environment.
Exhibit desirable interpersonal skills, including but not limited to respect and sensitivity for diverse cultures and individuals.
Practice desirable professional ethics, honesty, and confidentiality as applied to copyrighted materials when working on various facets of animation.
Demonstrate the ability to apply principles of intellectual property and intellectual freedom to the professional production of animation.