Milwaukee Area Technical College Associate’s Degree in Animation
The Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) offers quality education courses to adults who are interested in practical learning that will prepare them for the work force. Classes are offered at four on-campus locations: Downtown Milwaukee, Mequon, Oak Creek and West Allis. Students can take courses during the day, in the evening or on weekends. Online courses are also offered by MATC.
Over 200 programs are offered by the school, including Associate’s degree programs, certificates and apprenticeship programs. Credits earned at MATC can be used toward a Bachelor’s degree, if desired, and about one-third of those who choose to study at MATC plan to continue working toward an undergraduate degree.
Students at MATC can also get credits toward their high school diploma or GED.
MATC was founded in 1912, and is one of the largest technical colleges located in the Midwest. Approximately 57,000 students are enrolled at the school, with the majority studying on a part-time basis. Full-time students number about 13,400.
Students who choose to enroll in the Animation program at MATC gain the skills they need to work in the field of 3D animation. It includes courses in drawing, lighting and texturing. Traditional animation and character animation are also covered as part of the program. Several courses include a portfolio review component, which allows students to experience having their work critiqued as well as how to effectively communicate their thoughts about their peers’ efforts. By the time they graduate, the students are ready for employment opportunities at computer and video game companies, as well as in the film and television industry.
Curriculum
A student enrolled in the Associate’s degree program at MATC takes a combination of technical and general studies courses. The curriculum is as follows:
- 3D Modeling
- 3D Simulations and Illustrations
- Animation Portfolio
- Animation Studio
- Audio Production
- Basic Drawing for Animators
- Character Expression and Lipsync
- Communication Skills
- Comprehensive Graphic Design
- Contemporary American Society
- Digital Photography
- Digital Post Production
- Environment and Set Design
- Illustrated Storytelling
- Intro to 2D Animation
- Introduction to College Math
- Principles of Character Development
- Psychology of Human Relations
- Principles of 3D Animation
- Refining the Character
- Science of Technology
- Texture and Material Editing
- Timelines, Keyframes and Kinematics
In Focus: School of Media & Creative Arts
Careers
A graduate from the Associate’s degree program majoring in Animation is ready for the following career options:
- Character Rigging and Posing
- Concept Artist
- Designer, Modeler, Lighter, Renderer
- Effects Animator
- Game Animator Jobs
- Game Designer
- Game Modeler
- Layout Artist
- Storyboard Artist
- Texture Artist
How to Apply to Milwaukee Area Technical College
Prospective MATC students must complete an application for admission. Forms are available online or can be picked up in person. Applications for the fall semester must be received by the school by December 15 of the preceding year. MATC starts accepting applications starting October 1.
Along with the application form, a high school transcript must be provided. The applicant is also required to pay a fee. Some applicants will be required to take an Accuplacer test to determine whether they are ready to take on college-level work. All students are required to meet with a counselor as part of the orientation process. They enroll for classes at this meeting.
Learn More: Academy of Art – BFA in Animation and Special Effects