Also known as graphic design or digital graphics, Digital Media Design incorporates a number of artistic and professional disciplines focusing on visual communication. Various methods are used to create and combine images and/or typography to create visual representations of messages. Digital Media Design can incorporate Print Design, Digital Photography, Video Production, and Game Design.
Where are the Digital Media Design classes held?
Digital Media Design classes are located at The Works, 50 South Second St. in Newark, Ohio, Our three main labs are on the second floor, and we have a print lab, a classroom and studio/gallery at street level at the south corner of the building. We have classes in Digital Graphics and Web Design at the Coshocton campus and will open at the Pataskala campus in Autumn of 2010.
Open lab hours will vary from quarter to quarter; we usually have 15-20 dedicated hours where students can use the hardware and software in our labs. Many classrooms are also open under faculty supervision throughout the day. Students may use their own laptops at anytime in several lounge areas.
What does the DMD program prepare students for?
Students can do two things with their degree: continue their education at a four-year college or get a job. Employment in any field is usually based on both knowledge and experience. DMD students get a lot of experience, and the better the quality of the resulting portfolio, the better the chance of winning the job.
What design software is used in the courses?
In the Digital Media Design programs you will use a lot of different software, from Adobe products like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Dreamweaver to Apple's Final Cut Studio. Maxon's Cinema 4D is used to create all of the 3D images and animations.
What programming software is used in the Game Design program?
The first program you’ll learn to use is Game Maker, a program that helps teach students about all kinds of programming techniques like variables, loops, and functions while they create their first game. Later on you’ll actually code in C++, and then work on creating a three-dimensional game using Torque Game Engine Advanced in a group with your peers.
What kinds of internships are available for students?
Employers in Licking and Knox county often call the Digital Media Design instructors, looking for interns. The kinds of jobs vary, although most are either in print or web. Sometimes both. There is no specific time when these opportunities arise, so students should be prepared as early as their fourth quarter. The more you know, the better your chances.
Do students need experience before enrolling?
No experience is necessary to enroll in the DMD program. You don’t even need to own a computer (but it helps). We’ll teach you everything from how to use all the digital software you’ll ever run into, to how to work with clients. You'll work individually and in teams. You'll learn key design fundamentals, color theory, typography, and the history of your field, and you'll spend many classes in your specific area of interest.
What brand of computer would you recommend?
If you are in any program except the game design option, get a Mac. Really. Get a Macintosh. If you want a laptop, get the MacBook Pro, it has a faster processor, bigger hard drives and a larger screen. If you only want a desktop for home, look at the iMacs. You won’t need much more power than the 24” version offers. Sadly, some game design programs do not run on a Mac, so you either want to install Bootcamp and a Windows OS, or purchase a PC instead.