Digital Media
20 courses · Antelope Valley College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
DM 101 Digital Media Arts
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is designed to provide students with an introductory overview of the professional digital media including print, illustration, typography, digital photography. Students will be introduced to industry standard computer hardware (Mac desktop computers) and software (Adobe Creative suite, Adobe photoshop. Illustrator, InDesign) and terminology, as well as operating systems, design principles, and career paths. Class will also implement training using industry standard Wacom digital pens and tablets. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if working from home.
DM 103 Graphic Design I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Students will learn to create visual designs for a variety of media such as television, web, design and print using industry standard software and hardware. Primary software is Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for creating designs for projects such as brochures, ads, packaging, web pages, graphic designs and television graphics. Focus will be on developing entry-level skills for creating contemporary visual design solutions to typical industry projects. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if they plan to work from home.
DM 105 Interactive Media
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introduction to design and production methods using industry software for interactive media such as Web authoring, kiosk and display media and mobile devices. This course covers how ideas are generated, storyboards are constructed, media requirements are identified, and interfaces are designed. Production and delivery methods are covered in the course. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if they are working from home.
DM 106 Video Design & Production I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101 This course will focus on the fundamentals of video production and non-linear editing.
- Transfers to
- CSU
The central emphasis of this class will be upon the foundational elements to create an industry standard video segment using digital cameras and digital editing software. Basic camera composition, audio editing and interview techniques will be folded into the curriculum. Students will create video segments which demonstrate a clear understanding of basic video production and post production. The course will also examine current trends in the television industry and online media platforms as well as program development and client/producer business relations along with questions of ethics and social responsibility. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license.
DM 110 Motion Graphics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101 and DM 106.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course will focus on the creation of motion graphics and visual effects using still images, photography, animation, digital compositing, typography and sound and video. The course will cover specialized motion graphics computer software in Adobe Creative Suite to create innovative styles that will aesthetically enhance a digital media project. Television and movies special effects techniques are examined and discussed such as effects compositing, greenscreen compositing, effects and animation. Students will learn to output to QuickTime file format for integration into television, Web, physical media, and film projects. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license. BEFORE ENROLLING, students should be familiar with the Macintosh operating system, the Macintosh computer, and related peripherals.
DM 112 Experimental Video Production
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101 and DM 106 This course will introduce the student to digital techniques and methods of creating experimental video projects.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Students will be instructed in non-traditional narrative and non-narrative project formats to engage his/her imagination and creativity. The central focus of the class is to explore a variety of digital video techniques used in the production of artistic imagery. Using Adobe creative suite software and digital cameras, students will be able to create abstract, experimental and non-traditional storytelling techniques to create exciting digital projects that push the boundaries of the medium. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license. BEFORE ENROLLING, students should be familiar with the Macintosh operating system, the Macintosh computer, and related peripherals.
DM 113 Photoshop I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course gives students instruction and practice using Adobe Photoshop® to artistically enhance digitally captured images at an introductory level. At the completion of the course, students will have created a series of related works that demonstrate entry-level technical and creative skills in digital photographic imaging. Participation in critiques will provide the opportunity to refine and improve projects. Examples of topics to be covered include digital capture, color correction, scanning, retouching, masking, compositing, special effects, filters, typography, and file preparation for output to print, web, and video. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if working from home. Please note: Adobe software does not work with Chromebook laptops.
DM 115 Graphic Communications I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This advanced level course will cover graphic design topics in the context of wide-ranging visual and commercial communication theories that build upon skills learned in Graphic Communications I. Students will enhance their knowledge of the creative design process along with the communication of ideas by completing typical industry projects. Emphasis is on advanced software training and the integration of creative communications campaigns to prepare students for entry to the professional graphic communications industry. This course is designed for those who want advanced knowledge of graphic design as applied to the communications industry. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if working from home.
DM 127 Web Design and Production I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Advisory
- Completion of DM 101 This course is designed to provide students with an introductory overview of web page development.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Focus will be placed on the needed skills to develop and deliver information on the web. A central focus will be placed upon understanding basic HTML and CSS. Introduces Adobe Dreamweaver to develop and publish websites, emphasizing a critical-thinking approach and accepted standards of web page design. Students will be introduced to several related tools and concepts to accomplish this task including flow charts, image optimization, code editors, audio, video, and basic animation. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license.
DM 128 Web Design and Production II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Advisory
- Completion of DM 101 and DM 127 Introduction to advanced website design.
- Transfers to
- CSU
A central focus will be on the advanced components required to develop interactive Web sites, using a variety of technologies including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Also, an introduction to WordPress website creation. Other areas covered within this course include implementation of audio, video, and animation content for the web. Emphasis is on developing design techniques using modern layout tools such as wireframe/layout software, code editors, CSS Grid and Flexbox. Concepts related to UX, UI, large scale development, site promotion, hosting and e-commerce may also be covered. Students may have to purchase additional supplies not provided by the college. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if working from home. Please note Chromebooks will not run Adobe software.
DM 143 Computer 2-D Animation
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides the student with a basic overview and development of computer techniques required for production of 2-dimensional animation in various mediums and formats. Students will begin by learning basic animation disciplines such as timing, spacing, keyframes, emotion, weight, and mood to communicate story or message using industry standard software in the Adobe Creative suite as well as animating and compositing in 2D space. Class will also implement training using industry standard Wacom digital pens and tablets. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if working from home. Please note: Chromebooks cannot run Adobe software.
DM 145 Computer 3-D Animation
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101 and DM 143 This course provides the student with an overview and development of computer techniques required for the production of 3-D animation using media industry standard technology and software.
- Transfers to
- CSU
Topics covered are frame rate, concepts, timing, deformers, keyframes, curve editing, rigging, character walk cycles and facial animation. Software platforms used in course includes industry standard programs such as MAYA and BLENDER. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if working from home. Please note Chromebooks will not run Maya, Blender or Adobe software.
DM 199 Work Experience Education
- Units
- 1-8
- Hours
- 432 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
Students must also attend a scheduled orientation or meet individually with the supervising instructor for an individual orientation. Work Experience Education is supervised employment designed to provide students a realistic learning experience through work. The ultimate goal is to teach students skills and attitudes that will equip them to function and adapt as an employee in a variety of situations and jobs. Work Experience Education is supervised employment extending classroom-based occupational learning in an on-the-job learning situation related to the students' educational major or occupational goal. Credit may be accrued at the rate of one to eight units per semester.
DM 203 Graphic Design II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 103.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides advanced instruction in graphic design and production for the digital media arts industry. Students will learn to create visual design solutions for a variety of media such as television, Web, and print using industry standard software and hardware at an advanced level for creation of design projects such as brochures, ads, packaging, Web pages, and television graphics. Focus will be on developing portfolio- quality contemporary visual design solutions to typical industry projects. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license.
DM 205 Digital Illustration
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101.
- Advisory
- Completion of DM 113.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is an introduction to the basic principles and practices of digital fine arts and commercial illustration exploring the computer as the medium. Students are exposed to the skills needed to produce assignments with a focus on current industry standards using Adobe creative suite software. Projects incorporate creativity and conceptual problem solving in illustration as a means of communicating ideas. Traditional illustration skills and theories are presented as they relate to digital media with an emphasis on composition, line, perspective, tonality, color, expression, storytelling, typography, and design. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if learning from home. Please note: Chromebooks will not run Adobe software.
DM 206 Video Design and Production II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 106.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course will enhance the skills of advanced video students. Using non-linear editing software, students will learn to create graphics and effects as well as music /sound effects tracks to develop 30-second commercials and short form videos. The curriculum is developed to augment the advanced student’s knowledge of special effect editing and post production techniques. An emphasis will be placed on the art of camera composition and the subtleties of editing design. Students will conceptualize through storyboards and paper edits using logs to organize and track video content. This course will also provide an introduction to studio production, including set design, lighting, sound mixing, camera operation, floor directing and technical directing. Students may have to purchase additional supplies not provided by the college. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if learning from home. Please note Chromebooks will not run Adobe software.
DM 213 Photoshop II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 113.
- Advisory
- Completion of DM 101.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides advanced instruction in photographic digital imaging using Adobe Photoshop to artistically enhance digitally captured images. At the completion of the course, students will have created a series of works that demonstrate advanced- level technical and creative skills in digital photographic imaging. Participation in critiques will provide the opportunity to refine and improve projects. Examples of the topics to be covered include advanced-level digital design, color correction, retouching, masking, compositing, special effects, filters, typography, channels, and file preparation for output to print, web, and video. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if learning from home. Please note: Chromebooks cannot run Adobe software.
DM 215 Graphic Communications II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 115.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This advanced level course will cover graphic design topics in the context of wide-ranging visual and commercial communication theories that build upon skills learned in Graphic Communications I. Students will enhance their knowledge of the creative design process along with the communication of ideas by completing typical industry projects. Emphasis is on advanced software training and the integration of creative communications campaigns to prepare students for entry to the professional graphic communications industry. This course is designed for those who want advanced knowledge of graphic design as applied to the communications industry. Note: Students may need to purchase a student Adobe creative suite software license if working from home. Please note: Chromebooks do not run Adobe software.
DM 246 Portfolio and Job Search
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 113.
- Advisory
- Completion of DM 101, DM 103, and DM 127.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides students with the necessary skills associated with portfolio development, self-promotion, interview techniques, and job search in digital media arts. This is a portfolio-level course that students should take after completion of the DM 100 courses and/or in their last semester. The course provides students with the necessary skills associated with portfolio development, self-promotion, interview techniques, and job search in digital media arts. Students create new works to showcase their abilities to prospective employers. Self-promotional pieces such as direct mail, web content and Web site designs may be developed. Note: Students will need to purchase a Student Adobe Creative Suite Software License and are required to have a working knowledge of the Adobe software.
DM 298 Special Studies Digital Media
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 81 lab hours, 108 contact hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of DM 101.
- Advisory
- DM 103, DM 113, and DM 127.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides the student with the ability to conduct advanced individual study in the field of digital media under instructor guidance. This course provides the student with the ability to conduct advanced individual study in the field of digital media. Work during this course will provide the student with the opportunity to refine skills that can be demonstrated in portfolio-level quality final projects that will serve as part of the degree/certificate program. Note: Students will need to purchase a Student Adobe Creative Suite Software License and are required to have a working knowledge of the Adobe software. Please note: Chromebooks do NOT run Adobe software.