ABOUT
THE CAMPUS/EQUIPMENT
The School has been designed to promote a studio-like atmosphere geared
to digital imaging production. An extensive mix of computing power is
utilized to run both popular and specialized software. The School has
long experience in "high-end" animation software that includes
Maya and Soft image XSI. PC and Apple equipment provides support for
programs like Photoshop, Final Cut Pro and Sonic Foundry audio applications.
Motion graphics and audio and video streaming software is used in specialized
courses. The Digital Filmmaking program is designed to incorporate current
trends that include exposure to 24P filmmaking production-key found
in the new wave of digital film production.
ABOUT
FACULTY
The faculty at the School is drawn from local as well as national centers.
It is composed of full-time and part-time instructors. The largest number
are full time individuals who, like all instructors, have direct industry
experience. In fact, all are encouraged to continue their involvement
with film, animation, gaming, Internet and technical support.
ABOUT
ACCREDITATION
The School is fully accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the
Council on Occupational Education. The School is licensed by the North
Carolina State Board of Community Colleges, and is also authorized by
the University of North Carolina Board to confer Associate in Applied
Science degrees.
ABOUT
ALUMNI
Graduates have headed to numerous commercial film and interactive gaming
production facilities around the country and beyond including Industrial
Light & Magic, Mainframe Entertainment, Square USA, Click 3X and
Digital Domain. In the area, computer gaming and animation companies
have hired many of our graduates. Companies like Sinister Games, South
Peak Entertainment, Nvidia, Redstorm Interactive and SAS Institute have
been homes for alumni. Many have gone on to work in the freelance market
working around the globe.
ABOUT
WORKING
The Professional Services Office of Student Services is committed to
supporting the competitive edge of students in the professional market.
They have become a source of knowledge and affiliation with those in
the animation, graphic design, film, Internet development and information
technology arenas. An aggressive program of self-marketing moves to
the classroom to give students added competitive skills. Current students
and alumni may work with Professional Services on a direct contact basis
as they "work" their self promotional effort. Although no
one is guaranteed a job upon graduation, we remain proud of the record
of accomplishment of graduates.
ABOUT
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
The School assists candidates for enrollment with financial planning
assistance. As a service of Student Services, an enrolled student has
the opportunity to meet with a Financial Planner. As an accredited post
secondary institution, the School of Communication Arts is approved
by the US Department of Education to participate in the Title IV Federal
Student Aid programs. Eligible students are able to participate in the
PELL GRANT and FFELP loan programs. In addition, the School offers the
financial services for those individuals who may qualify for support
of Sallie Mae private loans.