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Rio Hondo College logo
Rio Hondo College logo
Associate of Arts Degree
Animation

This Degree is recommended for those who are interested in the field of Entertainment Art and Animation.  Students are advised to check with the Counseling Department for the courses accepted into the Animation major at the four-year institutions where they seek transfer.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

Apply Now!


Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2023-2024 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
Select sample path/map:
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: ART 105 / ART 105H (RHC GE 7a)M3.0
ART 105 - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 105H - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art and/or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities. This course is designed for those who meet Honors Program requirements.

ART 120 - Two Dimensional DesignM3.0
ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational, first semester course and is open to any student interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all visual media and fulfills a general education requirement in Art. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, and includes the study of the basic elements of line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, and written assignments.

ANIM 101 - Introduction to Digital 3-D AnimationM4.0
ANIM 101 - Introduction to Digital 3-D Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to the production pipeline used in games, film and TV. Students will be introduced to the concepts of digital sculpting, lighting, texturing, rendering, rigging, and animating 3-D objects. This course is beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (multimedia, illustration, web and game design, and film production) and industrial design (architectural, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design).

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (RHC GE 1b and 8a)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

Total Semester Units:14.5 
2nd Semester
ANIM 105 - Principles of 3-D Digital AnimationM4.0
ANIM 105 - Principles of 3-D Digital Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:ART 130; ART 230
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This course introduces students to the basic principles of 3-D digital animation. The topics covered in this course are the starting point for any student interested in becoming a digital animator. Through the use of solid drawing and 3-D software such as Maya, students will learn to master fundamentals like squash and stretch, timing, weight, drag, and follow through. This course provides students with the opportunity to build and refine the basic skill set necessary to be a digital animator.

ART 130 - Freehand Drawing IM3.0
ART 130 - Freehand Drawing I (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course for art and non-art majors interested in developing basic drawing skills is an introduction to observational drawing and composition. In the course, students develop the ability to perceive and define shape, contour, volume, space, and light using a variety of drawing media and subject matter. Emphasis is on clarity of observation and the ability to order and translate 3D form and space into 2D drawings.

Select one: MATH 150 / FIN 101 (RHC GE 2)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  FIN 101, MATH 060, MATH 073, MATH 130/H, MATH 140, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 175, MATH 180, MATH 190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students will learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning.

RHC GE 4 - American InstitutionsGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
POLS 110, 110H;
HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170

Total Semester Units:13.0 
Summer 1
RHC GE 5 - Natural Science with LabGE4.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one Natural Science with Lab:
ANTH 101, 101H & 101L;
ASTR 110, 110H & 112, 137;
BIOL 101, 105 & 105L, 111 & 111L, 112, 120 & 120L;
BIOT 100;
CHEM 110, 120, 130;
GEOG 101 & 101L;
GEOL 150 & 151, 152 & 152L;
PHY 120, 150, 160, 211, 212, 213

ElectiveEL3.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:7.0 
3rd Semester
Select one: ART 106 / ART 106H M3.0
ART 106 - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 106H - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements, and is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 121 - Three Dimensional DesignM3.0
ART 121 - Three Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory: ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational first semester art course and is open to all students interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all three dimensional media. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to three-dimensional art, and includes the basic elements and principles of three-dimensional design. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture, slide and video presentations, and studio projects using a variety of tools and written assignments.

RHC GE 6 - Social and Behavioral ScienceGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 104, 110, 115, 125;
CD 106, 208;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135;
EGSS 110, 120, 130;
GEOG 102, 103;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130;
KIN 170, 190, 195
MSCM 128;
PHIL 128, 128H, 135;
POLS 110, 110H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130, 135,140,150;
PSY 101, 101H, 112, 114, 180, 200;
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130;
SPCH 150

RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ANTH 104;
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202;
CHIN 101, 102;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
EGSS 130;
ENGL 126, 131;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145;
JAPN 101, 102;
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H,140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H;
MSCM 128;
PHIL 101, 101H, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140;
POLS 128, 128H, 150;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202;
SPCH 130, 132

RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

Total Semester Units:13.0† 
4th Semester
Select one: ANIM 110 / ANIM 120 / ANIM 130 / ART 170 / ART 260 M3.0†
Notes:
*Art 230 is the prerequisite for ART 260.

ANIM 110 - Digital Character Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 105
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course will provide students with an opportunity to further develop their skills in the art of creating three-dimensional digital character animation. Students will learn how to create short animation sequences and loops using digital characters. This course is appropriate and beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (such as those that focus on multimedia, internet web design, game design, and broadcast media production) and industrial design (including architecture, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design). Students will be introduced to the use of storyboards and relevant concepts related to body mechanics, acting for animators, pose-to-pose and straight ahead animation, control rigging, and animating mechanical subject matter.

ANIM 120 - Lighting and Rendering (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 101
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This is an introductory course for all students interested in learning about lighting, rendering, and texturing for 3-D animation and games. Students focus on creating lighting scenarios and texture editing systems to generate and render surface details on a variety of 3-D objects for film, TV, and games. The class is beneficial to all students interested in career fields using computer graphics. The course is recommended for all animation, art, and architecture transfer students.

ANIM 130 - Modeling for Games (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 101
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to the basic principles used in 3-D modeling, UVW unwrapping, and texturing for games. The course is intended for beginning 3-D students and covers the tools and techniques used in the creation of 3-D game assets. This course is beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (multimedia, illustration, web and game design, and film production) and industrial design (architectural, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design).

ART 170 - Introduction to Digital Painting (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ART 130
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students majoring in the Visual Arts: including Fine Arts, Illustration, Animation, Graphic Art and any student interested in learning to use the computer as a tool for original image making. The course will survey traditional drawing and painting techniques using computer technologies such as software, drawing tablets, scanners and printers. Students will investigate the fundamental pictorial elements of line, shape, space, color, and texture as well as the formal relationship of these elements to produce original works of art while learning the technology, concepts, and practices of digital art production.

ART 260 - Figure Drawing for Animators (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ART 230
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This figure drawing course for animators and art students focuses on gesture and how to capture the essential movement, dynamic expression, and the individual attitude of the model. It provides an introduction to figure drawing for animation and is designed to promote deeper understanding of life drawing that will serve as a foundation for further studies in animation and entertainment arts. Students will refine basic skills in drawing human anatomy while learning to draw the figure in sequential movement, understand weight and balance, facial and body expression, and figure invention. This course may be taken by art majors wishing to further life drawing skills and is recommended for all animation art majors.

RHC GE 8b - Communication/Analytical ThinkingGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
CIT 101, 125, 135;
ENGL 125, 201, 201H;
FIN 101;
GIS 120;
LIB 101;
MATH 130, 130H, 140, 150, 160, 170, 175, 180, 190, 190H, 191, 250, 251, 260, 270;
PHIL 110, 110H, 112, 112H, 115;
PSY 190;
SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140;
READ 101;
VOCB 101

ElectiveEL3.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

ElectiveEL3.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

ElectiveEL1.0

Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options.

Total Semester Units:13.0† 
Total Units for Animation AA program 60.5† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: ART 105 / ART 105H (CSU GE C1)M3.0
ART 105 - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 105H - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art and/or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities. This course is designed for those who meet Honors Program requirements.

ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (CSU GE C1 or C2)M3.0
ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational, first semester course and is open to any student interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all visual media and fulfills a general education requirement in Art. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, and includes the study of the basic elements of line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, and written assignments.

ANIM 101 - Introduction to Digital 3-D AnimationM4.0
ANIM 101 - Introduction to Digital 3-D Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to the production pipeline used in games, film and TV. Students will be introduced to the concepts of digital sculpting, lighting, texturing, rendering, rigging, and animating 3-D objects. This course is beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (multimedia, illustration, web and game design, and film production) and industrial design (architectural, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design).

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (CSU GE A2)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

Total Semester Units:13.5 
2nd Semester
ANIM 105 - Principles of 3-D Digital AnimationM4.0
ANIM 105 - Principles of 3-D Digital Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:ART 130; ART 230
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This course introduces students to the basic principles of 3-D digital animation. The topics covered in this course are the starting point for any student interested in becoming a digital animator. Through the use of solid drawing and 3-D software such as Maya, students will learn to master fundamentals like squash and stretch, timing, weight, drag, and follow through. This course provides students with the opportunity to build and refine the basic skill set necessary to be a digital animator.

ART 130 - Freehand Drawing IM3.0
ART 130 - Freehand Drawing I (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course for art and non-art majors interested in developing basic drawing skills is an introduction to observational drawing and composition. In the course, students develop the ability to perceive and define shape, contour, volume, space, and light using a variety of drawing media and subject matter. Emphasis is on clarity of observation and the ability to order and translate 3D form and space into 2D drawings.

Select one: MATH 150 / FIN 101 (CSU GE B4)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  FIN 101, MATH 130/H, MATH 140, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 175, MATH 180, MATH 190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students will learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning.

Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (CSU GE D)GE3.0
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments.

POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program.

Total Semester Units:13.0 
Summer 1
CSU GE B1 - Physical SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ASTR 110, 110H, 112*, 137*
CHEM 110*, 120*,130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150, 151*, 152, 152L*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*
CHEM 110*, 120*,130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150,151*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

CSU GE B3 - Lab ScienceGE1.0

Select one if lab has not been completed in CSU B1 or B2.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'

Total Semester Units:4.0† 
3rd Semester
Select one: ART 106 / ART 106H M3.0
ART 106 - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 106H - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements, and is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 121 - Three Dimensional DesignM3.0
ART 121 - Three Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory: ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational first semester art course and is open to all students interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all three dimensional media. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to three-dimensional art, and includes the basic elements and principles of three-dimensional design. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture, slide and video presentations, and studio projects using a variety of tools and written assignments.

US HISTORY (CSU GE D)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170.

CSU GE C2 - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:  
ANTH 104
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202
CHIN 101, 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
EGSS 130
ENGL 126, 131
FR 101, 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122,131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 101, 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114,114H, 117,117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H, 150
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202
SPCH 130, 132

CSU GE A3 - Critical ThinkingGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ENGL 201, 201H; PHIL 110, 110H, 112, 112H, 115; READ 101; SPCH 140

Total Semester Units:15.0† 
4th Semester
Select one: ANIM 110 / ANIM 120 / ANIM 130 / ART 260 *M3.0†
Notes:
*Art 230 is the prerequisite for ART 260.

ANIM 110 - Digital Character Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 105
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course will provide students with an opportunity to further develop their skills in the art of creating three-dimensional digital character animation. Students will learn how to create short animation sequences and loops using digital characters. This course is appropriate and beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (such as those that focus on multimedia, internet web design, game design, and broadcast media production) and industrial design (including architecture, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design). Students will be introduced to the use of storyboards and relevant concepts related to body mechanics, acting for animators, pose-to-pose and straight ahead animation, control rigging, and animating mechanical subject matter.

ANIM 120 - Lighting and Rendering (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 101
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This is an introductory course for all students interested in learning about lighting, rendering, and texturing for 3-D animation and games. Students focus on creating lighting scenarios and texture editing systems to generate and render surface details on a variety of 3-D objects for film, TV, and games. The class is beneficial to all students interested in career fields using computer graphics. The course is recommended for all animation, art, and architecture transfer students.

ANIM 130 - Modeling for Games (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 101
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to the basic principles used in 3-D modeling, UVW unwrapping, and texturing for games. The course is intended for beginning 3-D students and covers the tools and techniques used in the creation of 3-D game assets. This course is beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (multimedia, illustration, web and game design, and film production) and industrial design (architectural, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design).

ART 260 - Figure Drawing for Animators (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ART 230
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This figure drawing course for animators and art students focuses on gesture and how to capture the essential movement, dynamic expression, and the individual attitude of the model. It provides an introduction to figure drawing for animation and is designed to promote deeper understanding of life drawing that will serve as a foundation for further studies in animation and entertainment arts. Students will refine basic skills in drawing human anatomy while learning to draw the figure in sequential movement, understand weight and balance, facial and body expression, and figure invention. This course may be taken by art majors wishing to further life drawing skills and is recommended for all animation art majors.

CSU GE A1 - Oral CommunicationGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one: SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140

CSU GE B2 - Biological SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ANTH 101, 101H, 101L*
BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 112*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*
BIOT 100*; PSY 210, 210H
BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 112*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 222*, 226*
BIOT 100; PSY 210, 210H

CSU GE F - Ethnic StudiesGE3.0

Notes:
Students who started at Rio Hondo College beginning in Fall 2021 or later and returning students who have not maintained continuous enrollment will be required to complete a course in Area F. Students who started at Rio Hondo College prior to Fall 2021 and have maintained continuous enrollment will not be required to complete a course in Area F (instead, they will complete 9 units from at least two disciplines in Area D). Please see a counselor for details.

Select one:
CHST 101
EGSS 110

CSU GE E - Lifelong Learning/Self DevelopmentGE3.0

Select one:
ANTH 110
HUSR 123
CD 106
EGSS 130
KIN 159 (F'21), 170 (F'21), 190 (F'21), 191, 192, 196
COUN 101 (F’11), 104, 151 (F’98)
NUTR 110
DD 214 (see counselor for details)
PHIL 122
PSY 112, 121
EDEV 101 (F’15), 151
SOC 105, 110

Total Semester Units:15.0† 
Total Units for Animation AA program (Transfer to CSU)60.5† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: ART 105 / ART 105H (IGETC 3A)M3.0
ART 105 - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 105H - Survey of Western Art: Prehistory through the Middle Ages Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 105 or ART 105H)

This course presents a broad overview of Prehistoric, Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Roman, Early Christian, Islamic, and Medieval art and architecture. This course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art and/or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities. This course is designed for those who meet Honors Program requirements.

ART 120 - Two Dimensional DesignM3.0
ART 120 - Two Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational, first semester course and is open to any student interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all visual media and fulfills a general education requirement in Art. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, and includes the study of the basic elements of line, shape, texture, value, color and spatial illusion. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture presentations, studio projects, and written assignments.

ANIM 101 - Introduction to Digital 3-D AnimationM4.0
ANIM 101 - Introduction to Digital 3-D Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to the production pipeline used in games, film and TV. Students will be introduced to the concepts of digital sculpting, lighting, texturing, rendering, rigging, and animating 3-D objects. This course is beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (multimedia, illustration, web and game design, and film production) and industrial design (architectural, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design).

ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (IGETC 1A)GE3.5
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication.

Total Semester Units:13.5 
2nd Semester
ANIM 105 - Principles of 3-D Digital AnimationM4.0
ANIM 105 - Principles of 3-D Digital Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:ART 130; ART 230
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This course introduces students to the basic principles of 3-D digital animation. The topics covered in this course are the starting point for any student interested in becoming a digital animator. Through the use of solid drawing and 3-D software such as Maya, students will learn to master fundamentals like squash and stretch, timing, weight, drag, and follow through. This course provides students with the opportunity to build and refine the basic skill set necessary to be a digital animator.

ART 130 - Freehand Drawing IM3.0
ART 130 - Freehand Drawing I (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course for art and non-art majors interested in developing basic drawing skills is an introduction to observational drawing and composition. In the course, students develop the ability to perceive and define shape, contour, volume, space, and light using a variety of drawing media and subject matter. Emphasis is on clarity of observation and the ability to order and translate 3D form and space into 2D drawings.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (IGETC 2)GE3.0
Notes:
While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement:  MATH 130/H, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 180, MATH190/H, PSY 190.

MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units)

Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course.
Transfers to: CSU, UC

In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer.

Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (IGETC 4)GE3.0
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments.

POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: POLS 110 or POLS 110H)

This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program.

Total Semester Units:13.0 
Summer 1
IGETC 5A - Physical SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*'.

Select one:
ASTR 110, 110H, 112*, 137*
GEOG 101, 101L*
GEOL 150, 151*, 152, 152L*
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*
PHY 120*, 150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

IGETC 5C - Lab ScienceGE1.0

Select one if lab has not been completed in IGETC 5A or 5B.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':
ANTH 101L*;
ASTR 112*;
BIOL 101*, 105L*, 111L*, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 226*;
CHEM 110*, 120*, 130*, 140*, 230*, 231*;
GEOG 101L*;
GEOL 151*;
PHY 120*,150*, 160*, 211*, 212*, 213*

Total Semester Units:4.0† 
3rd Semester
Select one: ART 106 / ART 106H (IGETC 3A or 3B)M3.0
ART 106 - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 106H - Survey of Western Art: Renaissance to Contemporary Honors (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGL 101
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit) CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ART 106 or ART 106H)

This course provides an overview of the history of Western art from the 14th century through the Modern Era, including Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Early Photography, Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism, Postmodernism, and major art developments of the 20th and 21st centuries. The course is designed for students who meet Honors Program requirements, and is appropriate for all students pursuing the degree in Studio Art or Art History, or seeking to fulfill general education requirements in Fine Arts and Humanities.

ART 121 - Three Dimensional DesignM3.0
ART 121 - Three Dimensional Design (3.0 units)

Advisory: ART 120
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This is a foundational first semester art course and is open to all students interested in the fundamentals of visual thinking as they apply to all three dimensional media. This course provides an introduction to the concepts, applications, and art historical references related to three-dimensional art, and includes the basic elements and principles of three-dimensional design. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lecture, slide and video presentations, and studio projects using a variety of tools and written assignments.

US HISTORY (IGETC 4)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170.

IGETC 3A - ArtsGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ARTS: ART 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
THTR 101, 105, 105H

IGETC 3B - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ANTH 104
ASL 124, 201
CHIN 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H
ENGL126
FR 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A,146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H;
SPAN 102, 201, 201H, 202

Total Semester Units:15.0† 
4th Semester
Select one: ANIM 110 / ANIM 120 / ANIM 130 / ART 170 / ART 260 *M3.0†
Notes:
*ART 230 is the prerequisite for ART 260.

ANIM 110 - Digital Character Animation (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 105
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course will provide students with an opportunity to further develop their skills in the art of creating three-dimensional digital character animation. Students will learn how to create short animation sequences and loops using digital characters. This course is appropriate and beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (such as those that focus on multimedia, internet web design, game design, and broadcast media production) and industrial design (including architecture, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design). Students will be introduced to the use of storyboards and relevant concepts related to body mechanics, acting for animators, pose-to-pose and straight ahead animation, control rigging, and animating mechanical subject matter.

ANIM 120 - Lighting and Rendering (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 101
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This is an introductory course for all students interested in learning about lighting, rendering, and texturing for 3-D animation and games. Students focus on creating lighting scenarios and texture editing systems to generate and render surface details on a variety of 3-D objects for film, TV, and games. The class is beneficial to all students interested in career fields using computer graphics. The course is recommended for all animation, art, and architecture transfer students.

ANIM 130 - Modeling for Games (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 101
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to the basic principles used in 3-D modeling, UVW unwrapping, and texturing for games. The course is intended for beginning 3-D students and covers the tools and techniques used in the creation of 3-D game assets. This course is beneficial for all students in courses related to graphic arts (multimedia, illustration, web and game design, and film production) and industrial design (architectural, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design).

ART 170 - Introduction to Digital Painting (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ART 130
Transfers to: UC, CSU

This course is designed for students majoring in the Visual Arts: including Fine Arts, Illustration, Animation, Graphic Art and any student interested in learning to use the computer as a tool for original image making. The course will survey traditional drawing and painting techniques using computer technologies such as software, drawing tablets, scanners and printers. Students will investigate the fundamental pictorial elements of line, shape, space, color, and texture as well as the formal relationship of these elements to produce original works of art while learning the technology, concepts, and practices of digital art production.

ART 260 - Figure Drawing for Animators (3.0 units)

Prerequisite: ART 230
Transfers to:UC, CSU

This figure drawing course for animators and art students focuses on gesture and how to capture the essential movement, dynamic expression, and the individual attitude of the model. It provides an introduction to figure drawing for animation and is designed to promote deeper understanding of life drawing that will serve as a foundation for further studies in animation and entertainment arts. Students will refine basic skills in drawing human anatomy while learning to draw the figure in sequential movement, understand weight and balance, facial and body expression, and figure invention. This course may be taken by art majors wishing to further life drawing skills and is recommended for all animation art majors.

IGETC 1B - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ENGL 201, 201H
PHIL 110, 110H

IGETC 6 - Foreign Language (UC ONLY)GE4.5

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
Courses in this area that also appear in IGETC 3B Humanities may be counted toward both areas.

Proficiency equivalent to two years of high school study in the same language or select one:
ASL 101, 102, 201;
CHIN 101, 102;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
JAPN 101, 102;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202
There are additional ways to satisfy the Language Other than English Requirement. Please see a counselor for advisement.

IGETC 7 - Ethnic StudiesGE3.0

Notes:
Students who started at Rio Hondo College beginning in Fall 2023 or later will be required to complete a course in Area 7. Students who started at Rio Hondo College prior to Fall 2023 and have maintained continuous enrollment will not be required to complete a course in Area 7 (instead, they will complete 9 units from at least two disciplines in Area 4). Please see a counselor for details.

Select one:
CHST 101
EGSS 110

Total Semester Units:13.5† 
Summer 2
IGETC 5B - Biological SciencesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.
All labs or courses with labs are indicated by an '*':

Select one:
ANTH 101, 101H, 101L*; BIOL 101*, 105, 105L*, 111, 111L*, 120, 120L*, 200*, 201*, 206, 226*;
PSY 210, 210H.

IGETC 1C - Oral Communication (CSU Only)GE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140

Total Semester Units:6.0† 
Total Units for Animation AA program (Transfer to UC/CSU)65.0† 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

When given a concept design problem, students will employ digital and traditional methods to develop and communicate a concept that is original and visually engaging.


2

When given an animation problem, students will employ the use of industry standard 3D software to create an animation that exhibits a knowledge and understanding of the principles of animation.


3

When given a specific topic, students will employ the latest digital visualization tools to develop and create a project suitable for a portfolio in the entertainment industry.


About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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