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Certificate of Achievement
Character Design for Games

This certificate is tailored for aspiring character artists, gaming enthusiasts, and students eager to grasp the foundational principles of crafting compelling game characters. Required courses provide essential knowledge and skills for entry-level positions in the dynamic game development industry.

To acquire the Certificate of Achievement in Character Design for Games, it is necessary to complete the following courses:

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

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Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2025-2026 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.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
ANIM 130 - Modeling for GamesM4.0
ANIM 130 - Modeling for Games (4.0 units)

Advisory:ANIM 101
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of 3D modeling, unwrapping, and texturing for game development. Designed for beginning 3D Animation students, it covers the essential tools and techniques for creating 3D game assets. This course is also valuable for students in graphic arts such as, illustration, web and game design, and film production— as well as industrial design, including architectural, automotive, furniture, clothing, and product design.

GAD 103 - Game Technologies and EnginesM3.0
GAD 103 - Game Technologies and Engines (3.0 units)

Advisory:ENGL C1000
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and vocabulary of computer game tools and techniques. Students employ a variety of digital tools with a focus on game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine) to create playable environments. Included are topics such as introduction to game editors, 3D asset creation and management, and foundational skills in creating playable content.

Total Semester Units:7.0 
2nd Semester
ANIM 133 - Character DesignM4.0
ANIM 133 - Character Design (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 takes up the fundamentals of character design. Students learn the basics of character development by revising and polishing innovative designs of visually intriguing characters, and in so doing use and master gesture, construction, and anatomy in their designs. Further, students learn to use digital tools to sketch, paint, and build a visually compelling portfolio of characters.

GAD 102 - Game Concept Design and Visual DevelopmentM3.0
GAD 102 - Game Concept Design and Visual Development (3.0 units)

Advisory:ENGL C1000
Transfers to:UC,CSU

In this course, students develop foundational skills for illustration and concept design by creating characters, props, and environments as used in the video game and animation industries. The course will focus on creating thumbnail and final illustrations, composition, value studies, perspective, and digital painting techniques for a concept design workflow.

Total Semester Units:7.0 
Total Units for Character Design for Games COA program 14.0 
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:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

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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