Virtual Production Undergraduate Certificate
Virtual production empowers filmmakers, actors, and animators across multiple locations to collaborate in real time. They create together by using software tools to combine live-action footage with computer-generated graphics.
Virtual production has become integral to filmmaking. Studios need talent with a solid understanding of this new field in digital cinema.
Gain in-demand skills by earning our undergraduate certificate in virtual production. You’ll learn the software and equipment used to create virtual sets and reactive backgrounds in real time.
Our 18-credit-hour undergraduate Virtual Production Certificate focuses on the filmmaking qualifications employers are seeking now.
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The right time and place
Fueled by the pandemic, virtual production is coming into its own. Virtual production:
- Reduces production costs and time
- Enables greater creative visualization and collaboration
- Allows virtual assets to be saved and re-used
Employers in marketing, film, broadcast, and music sectors want to hire people with strong virtual production skills. IUPUI’s central location in a burgeoning Midwest tech hub is ideal for virtual production, which isn’t tied to a fixed location.
We’ve got what it takes
To earn your certificate you’ll take six in-person classes over a two-year period, using the facilities of our school, located at Indiana University’s Indianapolis campus. You’ll work with the same equipment as the pros to develop skills in 3D imaging and animation, sound, video, graphics, and special effects.
- Realize your vision in our Media Arts Research and Learning Arcade, Audio Production Suite, and our Video Editing and Emerging Technologies labs.
- Use motion-capture and 3-D printing technology, as well as surround sound, Cintiq stations and Unreal4 and Unity game engines.
Why it’s for you
Our undergraduate certificate in virtual production prepares you for traditional and emerging careers in filmmaking.
- Working professionals: Broaden and update your skills
- College students: Enhance your studies and develop a new specialization
- High school students and graduates: Discover a shorter path to professional training
After you earn your certificate and get a job, you can continue your education and be on the way to a well-paying career.
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs, which you can use to pursue a 4-year degree. If you decide to earn a bachelor’s degree in Media Arts and Science from our school, the classes from your Virtual Production Certificate will count toward it.
Careers
Careers in virtual production include:
- SFX artists and animators
- Producers, directors
- Lighting, audio, and video techs
- VFX pipeline developer
- Motion control specialist
- Engine technical director
List of classes
You earn our 18-credit-hour undergraduate certificate in virtual production by taking the following courses over two years:
- NEWM-N 230 Introduction to Game Design and Development
- NEWM-N 243 Introduction to 3D
- NEWM-N 253 Introduction to Digital Video
- NEWM-N 330 Intermediate Game Design and Development
- NEWM-N 356 Lighting and Field Production
- NEWM-N 458 Beyond the Frame: New Forms of Video Production
The first three courses introduce film, 3D asset creation, and game engine production skills.
In NEWM-N 330, combine storytelling, game making, and 3D environmental production by working in teams. This is a critical step in learning common production practices.
In NEWM-N 356, learn how to shoot films, light sets, and work with actors.
The sixth and final class, NEWM-N 458, culminates in a complete virtual production project with storytelling within the medium, large team communications, and exploring industry trends and hiring practices within this evolving field.
A minimum grade of C- is required for any course to be counted toward the certificate.
Getting started
You can earn this as a stand-alone certificate, or as part of an undergraduate degree. To get started, you’ll need to be admitted to IUPUI as an undergraduate student.
Current IUPUI students
See your advisor.