Campus Overview
Since 1976, the University of Hawai‘i – West O‘ahu has served the people of Hawai‘i and remains a dynamic and diverse place of learning and cultural enrichment. Formerly West O‘ahu College, the university has evolved from a two-year baccalaureate institution to a four-year comprehensive University with academic programs that emphasize the exploration of interdisciplinary and cross-cultural studies. Founded in the liberal arts, UH West O‘ahu is committed to quality teaching and an environment that fosters life-long learning.
UH West O’ahu is located in the City of Kapolei on the island of O’ahu. The average enrollment is about 2,700 students via on-campus and distance learning. The University offers six bachelor’s degree programs in 32 areas of study as well as seven certificate programs. Nearly 14% of enrolled students live on the neighboring islands.
The University of Hawai‘i – West O‘ahu is committed to continuous improvement in all areas of the campus and demonstrates this commitment through our engagement in the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation process. UH West O’ahu is fully accredited by WASC, our regional accreditation agency. The University first received WASC accreditation in February 1981 and has been reaccredited in all subsequent reviews.
Bachelor of Arts in Creative Media Overview
Students who chose to study creative media will receive an innovative educational experience that weaves art and design, narrative, information science, and technologies necessary for a broad range of careers in government and non-government organizations, educational institutions, technological firms, and private firms and agencies.
The program recognizes the evolving technology that drives content creation and emerging media platforms. While honoring legacy film school curricula, UH West O‘ahu’s Creative Media program embraces digital media literacy experienced through video, animation, video games, social media platforms, apps, virtual and augmented reality, and computational media (the nexus of visual storytelling and coding).
The Creative Media degree offers concentrations in General Creative Media, Communications and New Media Technologies, Design and Media and Game Design and Development.
The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Media degree, concentration in General Creative Media, is offered via distance education to our students who reside on the neighbor islands and have completed the first two years of coursework from a neighbor island in a Media/Art program at a community college within the UH system.
Creative Media Division Learning Outcomes:
- Synthesize multiple creative media forms (e.g., game design, internet platforms, mobile apps, sound design, motion graphics, graphic design, storytelling) including at least two or more tools and technology in an appropriate body of work that focuses on the creative media of tomorrow.
- Use research and information-gathering skills to identify, analyze, and propose solutions.
- Make sound ethical and legal decisions in creating and using creative media.
- Evaluate and critique work in chosen field including self-work by using professional terminology and criteria.
- Communicate ideas to peers, clients, and intended audiences using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their chosen media field.
- Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen media field.
- Work productively as members of creative media teams.
These learning outcomes relate to the degree. Concentration-level learning outcomes can be found on the respective concentration pages.
Click here to learn more about the various media programs across the UH System supported by the Academy for Creative Media System
Academic PathwaysTo learn more about the UH West O‘ahu campus click here
UH West O‘ahuGeneral Creative Media
Prerequisites
Option 1: Students with an earned degree from one of the following programs.
- AS in Television Production (Leeward CC)
- AS in Digital Media (Leeward CC)
- AS in New Media Arts (Kapi‘olani CC)
- AS in MELE (Honolulu CC)
- AS in Communication Arts (Honolulu CC)
- AS in Creative Media (Kauai CC)
- AS in Creative Media (UH Maui College)
- Graduates of other creative media or communications programs will also be considered for admission.
Option 2: UH West O’ahu Creative Media Degree Requirements
Students who have earned an AS from a UH Media Design program may have an adequate background to waive these requirements. Please consult with Sharla Hanaoka.
Undergraduate General Education Requirements
- General Education Requirements (31 Credits)
- Writing Skills Requirement (3 credits)
- Lower Division Math Requirement (0-3 credits)
Creative Media Foundational Requirement: (15-18 credits)
- ART 112 Introduction to Digital Art (Will satisfy general ed DA requirement)
- CM 120 Introduction to Digital Video
Plus, choose 12 credits from the list below:
- ART 101 Introduction to Visual Arts
- ART 107D Introduction to Digital Photography
- ART 113D Introduction to Digital Drawing
- ART 126 3D Computer Graphics
- ART 221 Design for Print and Web
- ART 229 Interface Design I
- ART 231 Art Through Applied Geometry
- ART 240 Typography and Color Design
- CM 140 History of Video Games
- CM 142 Introduction to Video Game Design
- CM 143 Introduction to Game Art
- CM 150 Film Analysis and Storytelling
- CM 151 Pre-Production: Digital Video
- CM 152 Principles of Video Editing
- CM 153 Sound Design for Digital Media
- CM 155 Introduction to Screenwriting
- CM 160 The Mobile Word
- CM 161 Intro to iOS Mobile App Development
- CM 251 Animation and Special Effects
- ICS 101 Digital Tools for the Information World
- ICS 111 Introduction to Computer Science
Core Requirements
Creative Media Core Requirements (21 Credits):
- CM 256 Creatives in Media
- ENG 313 Introduction to Creative Writing (WI)
- CM 314 Music, Sound & Media
- CM 320 Creative Producing
- CM 401 Creative Professionals
- HIST 363: 20th Century Popular, Mass & Counter-Culture
- SD 360: Dynamics of Effective Leadership (WI)
General Creative Media Concentration Requirement (12 credits)
Complete 12 credits from the following:
- ART 320 Web Design & Development
- CM 311 Audio Post Production I
- CM 315 Interactive Applications
- CM 316 User Experience
- CM 317 Motion Graphics
- CM 321 Representations of Film/TV Productions*
- CM 322 Documentary Film Research & Development*
- CM 330 Audio Post Production II
- CM 340 The Modern Game Industry
- CM 341 Writing and Storytelling for Video Games
- CM 342 Applied Game Design
- CM 343 Game Level Design
- CM 350 Creative Strategy
- CM 351 Innovative Advertising
- CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- CM 353 Making a Short Film
- CM 354 Short copy for Campaigns
- CM 358 Web Series Production
- CM 359 Branded Entertainment: Online Video Campaign
- CM 378 Visual Depictions of the Human Experience and Media Power
- CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- CM 391 Game Design Project
- CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- CM 402 Archival Research for Media Makers
- CM 403 Special Topics
- CM 430 Mastering Social Media*
*Courses may only be used once to fulfill the Communication & New Media Technologies Concentration OR Concentration Elective requirement
Capstone Requirement: 6 UD Credits
- CM 489 Pre-Capstone Experience (WI)
- CM 490 Senior Project or CM 491 Senior Practicum
Electives
Communication & New Media Technologies Concentration Requirement (9 credits)
Complete 9 credits from the following:
- *ART 320 Web Design & Development
- BUSA 300 Principles of Marketing
- BUSA 304 Consumer Behavior
- BUSA 305 Advertising & Promotion Management
- CM 201 Forensic Photography
- *CM 311 Audio Post Production I
- *CM 315 Interactive Applications
- *CM 316 User Experience
- *CM 317 Motion Graphics
- *CM 321 Representations of Film/TV Productions
- *CM 322 Documentary Film Research & Development
- *CM 330 Audio Post Production II
- *CM 340 The Modern Game Industry
- *CM 341 Writing and Storytelling for Video Games
- *CM 342 Applied Game Design
- *CM 343 Game Level Design
- *CM 350 Creative Strategy
- *CM 351 Innovative Advertising
- *CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- *CM 353 Making a Short Film
- *CM 354 Short copy for Campaigns
- *CM 358 Web Series Production
- *CM 359 Branded Entertainment: Online Video Campaign
- *CM 378 Visual Depictions of the Human Experience and Media Power
- *CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- *CM 391 Game Design Project
- *CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- *CM 402 Archival Research for Media Makers
- *CM 403 Special Topics
- *CM 430 Mastering Social Media
- ENG 317 Pidgin Creative Writing Workshop
- ENG 300c Introduction to Cultural Theory
- ENG 360 Literature & Film
- ENG 361 History of Film
- ENG 367(A) Film Genres and Directors a) Film Noir; b) The Western; c) Gangster Film; d) Science Fiction Film; e) The Road Movie
- ENG 368(A) Topics in Television Studies a) TV and American Culture; b) The TV Medical Drama; and c) Television Auteurs
- ENG 385 Fairy Tales and Their Adaptations
- ENG 441 Gender & Sexuality in Literature & Film
- HIST 243 Asia Cool: Modern Asia & Pop Culture
- HIST 311 Chinese Culture
- HIST 321 Japanese Culture
- HIST 325 Asian Economies, Business & Consumers
- HIST 326 Japan Cool: Anime, Manga, and Film
- HIST 496 Contemporary Oceanic Film
- HPST 304 Hawaiian-Pacific Traditions
- HPST 461 Traditional Art of Hawaii
- HPST 462 Traditional Art of the Pacific
- HPST 477 Polynesian and Micronesian Mythology
- HPST 478 Hawaiian Mythology I
- HPST 479 Hawaiian Mythology II
- ICS 113 Database Fundamentals
- ICS 184 Network Fundamentals
- ICS 211 Introduction to Computer Science II
- ICS 240 Operating Systems
- MGT 301 Business Ethics
- MGT 320 Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
- PHIL 439 Philosophy and Film
*Courses may only be used once to fulfill the Communication & New Media Technologies Concentration OR Concentration Elective requirement
Electives Requirement (17-26 credits)
Check with your College Success Advisor to confirm how many electives are needed.
Program Overview
Integrating various media domains, such as design, storytelling, and technology, the general creative media concentration provides study and extended practice in the student’s chosen area of competence. Course requirements address development and maintenance of existing artistic skills; foster support for a broader understanding of related disciplines including humanities and technology; and provide experience in working in multidisciplinary teams on realistic problems.
Career and Earnings Potential
- Digital Content Producers: $51,000 (indeed.com)
- Social Media managers: $50,433 (indeed.com)
- Advertising and Marketing Manager: $132,620 (bls.gov)
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the concentration in Design and Media, students will be able to:
Production Skills and Technical Knowledge
- Produce, format and distribute content across all major media platform
- Produce video and audio content such as recording on location and in the studio, editing, and creating basic media graphics
Conceptual Thinking
- Identify, gather, assess, record, and research relevant information for a project
- Identify and apply interviewing techniques as part of the interview and investigation process
- Analyze and discuss media trends and issues
Written and Oral Communication
- Communicate concepts and ideas for a media project using industry terminology, both verbally and in writing
- Evaluate and critique work in a chosen medium
Visual Communication
- Apply basic design principles to various types of video, print, and interactive media
Professional Readiness
- Produce a professional portfolio to acquire a job within the media industry or corporate environment
- Practice meeting deadlines and submit work according to professional presentation standards
Contact an Advisor
Sharla Hanaoka, Associate Director Creative Media
Contact an Admission SpecialistCommunications and New Media Technologies
Prerequisites
Option 1: Students with an earned degree from one of the following programs.
- AS in Television Production (Leeward CC)
- AS in Digital Media (Leeward CC)
- AS in New Media Arts (Kapi‘olani CC)
- AS in MELE (Honolulu CC)
- AS in Communication Arts (Honolulu CC)
- AS in Creative Media (Kauai CC)
- AS in Creative Media (UH Maui College)
- Graduates of other creative media or communications programs will also be considered for admission.
Option 2: UH West O’ahu Creative Media Degree Requirements
Students who have earned an AS from a UH Media Design program may have an adequate background to waive these requirements. Please consult with Sharla Hanaoka.
Undergraduate General Education Requirements
- General Education Requirements (31 Credits)
- Writing Skills Requirement (3 credits)
- Lower Division Math Requirement (0-3 credits)
Creative Media Foundational Requirement: (15-18 credits)
- ART 112 Introduction to Digital Art (Will satisfy general ed DA requirement)
- CM 120 Introduction to Digital Video
Plus, choose 12 credits from the list below:
- ART 101 Introduction to Visual Arts
- ART 107D Introduction to Digital Photography
- ART 113D Introduction to Digital Drawing
- ART 126 3D Computer Graphics
- ART 221 Design for Print and Web
- ART 229 Interface Design I
- ART 231 Art Through Applied Geometry
- ART 240 Typography and Color Design
- CM 140 History of Video Games
- CM 142 Introduction to Video Game Design
- CM 143 Introduction to Game Art
- CM 150 Film Analysis and Storytelling
- CM 151 Pre-Production: Digital Video
- CM 152 Principles of Video Editing
- CM 153 Sound Design for Digital Media
- CM 155 Introduction to Screenwriting
- CM 160 The Mobile Word
- CM 161 Intro to iOS Mobile App Development
- CM 251 Animation and Special Effects
- ICS 101 Digital Tools for the Information World
- ICS 111 Introduction to Computer Science
Core Requirements
Creative Media Core Requirements (21 Credits):
- CM 256 Creatives in Media
- ENG 313 Introduction to Creative Writing (WI)
- CM 314 Music, Sound & Media
- CM 320 Creative Producing
- CM 401 Creative Professionals
- HIST 363: 20th Century Popular, Mass & Counter-Culture
- SD 360: Dynamics of Effective Leadership (WI)
Communications and New Media Technologies Concentration Requirement (12 credits)
Complete 12 credits from the following:
- CM 311 Audio Post Production I
- CM 317 Motion Graphics
- CM 321 Representations of Film/TV Productions*
- CM 322 Documentary Film Research & Development*
- CM 330 Audio Post Production II
- CM 351 Innovative Advertising
- CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- CM 353 Making a Short Film
- CM 354 Short copy for Campaigns
- CM 358 Web Series Production
- CM 359 Branded Entertainment: Online Video Campaign
- CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- CM 402 Archival Research for Media Makers
- CM 403 Special Topics
- CM 430 Mastering Social Media*
*Courses may only be used once to fulfill the Communication & New Media Technologies Concentration OR Concentration Elective requirement
Capstone Requirement: 6 UD Credits
- CM 489 Pre-Capstone Experience (WI)
- CM 490 Senior Project or CM 491 Senior Practicum
Electives
Communication & New Media Technologies Concentration Requirement (9 credits)
Complete 9 credits from the following:
- ART 320 Web Design & Development
- BUSA 300 Principles of Marketing
- BUSA 304 Consumer Behavior
- BUSA 305 Advertising & Promotion Management
- CM 201 Forensic Photography
- *CM 311 Audio Post Production I
- CM 315 Interactive Applications
- CM 316 User Experience
- *CM 317 Motion Graphics
- *CM 321 Representations of Film/TV Productions
- *CM 322 Documentary Film Research & Development
- *CM 330 Audio Post Production II
- CM 340 The Modern Game Industry
- CM 341 Writing and Storytelling for Video Games
- CM 342 Applied Game Design
- CM 343 Game Level Design
- CM 350 Creative Strategy
- *CM 351 Innovative Advertising
- *CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- *CM 353 Making a Short Film
- *CM 354 Short copy for Campaigns
- *CM 358 Web Series Production
- *CM 359 Branded Entertainment: Online Video Campaign
- CM 378 Visual Depictions of the Human Experience and Media Power
- *CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- CM 391 Game Design Project
- *CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- *CM 402 Archival Research for Media Makers
- *CM 403 Special Topics
- *CM 430 Mastering Social Media
- ENG 317 Pidgin Creative Writing Workshop
- ENG 300c Introduction to Cultural Theory
- ENG 360 Literature & Film
- ENG 361 History of Film
- ENG 367(A) Film Genres and Directors a) Film Noir; b) The Western; c) Gangster Film; d) Science Fiction Film; e) The Road Movie
- ENG 368(A) Topics in Television Studies a) TV and American Culture; b) The TV Medical Drama; and c) Television Auteurs
- ENG 385 Fairy Tales and Their Adaptations
- ENG 441 Gender & Sexuality in Literature & Film
- HIST 326 Japan Cool: Anime, Manga, and Film
- HIST 496 Contemporary Oceanic Film
- HIST 243 Asia Cool: Modern Asia & Pop Culture
- HIST 311 Chinese Culture
- HIST 321 Japanese Culture
- HIST 325 Asian Economies, Business & Consumers
- HPST 304 Hawaiian-Pacific Traditions
- HPST 461 Traditional Art of Hawaii
- HPST 462 Traditional Art of the Pacific
- HPST 477 Polynesian and Micronesian Mythology
- HPST 478 Hawaiian Mythology I
- HPST 479 Hawaiian Mythology II
- ICS 113 Database Fundamentals
- ICS 184 Network Fundamentals
- ICS 211 Introduction to Computer Science II
- ICS 240 Operating Systems
- MGT 301 Business Ethics
- MGT 320 Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
- PHIL 439 Philosophy and Film
*Courses may only be used once to fulfill the Communication & New Media Technologies Concentration OR Concentration Elective requirement
Electives Requirement (17-26 credits)
Check with your College Success Advisor to confirm how many electives are needed.
Program Overview
The Communications and New Media Technologies concentration provides students a curriculum that moves beyond training for traditional jobs in broadcasting and film to drive students towards a world of online digital content. New, or digital, media evolves so quickly. Writing and producing content for new media platforms are becoming essential ingredients to todayʻs communication strategies. The concentration provides a hands-on approach where skills are learned by doing. There is a dual emphasis on interpersonal and mass communication, in a variety of subject areas, including new media technology, social media research and marketing, interpersonal development in mediated environments and content production for up and coming media platforms.
A student will gain a variety of communication, computer, and graphic design skills to help prepare you for careers in management, advertising, media, communications, public relations and more.
Career and Earnings Potential
- Digital Content Producers: $51,000 (indeed.com)
- Social Media managers: $50,433 (indeed.com)
- Video producer/editor: $58,990 (bls.gov)
- Sound Engineer Technicians: $43,660 (bls.gov)
- Photographers: $34,000 (bls.gov)
- Radio/Podcast Personality: $43,000 (bls.gov)
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the concentration in Design and Media, students will be able to:
Production Skills and Technical Knowledge
- Produce video and audio content such as recording on location and in the studio, editing, and creating basic media graphics
- Produce, format and distribute content across all major media platforms
Conceptual Thinking
- Identify, gather, assess, record, and research relevant information for a story
- Identify and apply interviewing techniques as part of the interview and investigation process
- Analyze and discuss media trends and issues
- Develop unique, original story ideas
Written and Oral Communication
- Produce scripts, features, articles and other written content for media coverage in various platforms
- Communicate concepts and ideas for a media project using industry terminology, both verbally and in writing
- Evaluate and critique work within the chosen medium.
Visual Communication
- Apply visualization story techniques in the pre-production and production stage
- Apply basic design principles to various types of video, print, and interactive media
Professional Readiness
- Produce a professional reel to acquire a job within the media industry or corporate environment
- Practice meeting deadlines and submit work according to professional presentation standards
Contact an Advisor
Sharla Hanaoka, Associate Director Creative Media
Contact an Admission SpecialistGame Design and Development
Prerequisites
Option 1: Students with an earned degree from one of the following programs.
- AS in Television Production (Leeward CC)
- AS in Digital Media (Leeward CC)
- AS in New Media Arts (Kapi‘olani CC)
- AS in MELE (Honolulu CC)
- AS in Communication Arts (Honolulu CC)
- Graduates of other creative media or communications programs will also be considered for admission.
Option 2: UH West O’ahu Creative Media Degree Requirements
Students who have earned an AS from a UH Media Design program may have an adequate background to waive these requirements. Please consult with Sharla Hanaoka.
Undergraduate General Education Requirements
- General Education Requirements (31 Credits)
- Writing Skills Requirement (3 credits)
- Lower Division Math Requirement (0-3 credits)
Creative Media Foundational Requirement: (15-18 credits)
- ART 112 Introduction to Digital Art (Will satisfy general ed DA requirement)
- CM 120 Introduction to Digital Video
Plus, choose 12 credits from the list below:
- ART 101 Introduction to Visual Arts
- ART 107D Introduction to Digital Photography
- ART 113D Introduction to Digital Drawing
- ART 126 3D Computer Graphics
- ART 221 Design for Print and Web
- ART 229 Interface Design I
- ART 231 Art Through Applied Geometry
- ART 240 Typography and Color Design
- CM 140 History of Video Games
- CM 142 Introduction to Video Game Design
- CM 143 Introduction to Game Art
- CM 150 Film Analysis and Storytelling
- CM 151 Pre-Production: Digital Video
- CM 152 Principles of Video Editing
- CM 153 Sound Design for Digital Media
- CM 155 Introduction to Screenwriting
- CM 160 The Mobile Word
- CM 161 Intro to iOS Mobile App Development
- CM 251 Animation and Special Effects
- ICS 101 Digital Tools for the Information World
- ICS 111 Introduction to Computer Science
Core Requirements
Creative Media Core Requirements (21 Credits):
- CM 256 Creatives in Media
- ENG 313 Introduction to Creative Writing (WI)
- CM 314 Music, Sound & Media
- CM 320 Creative Producing
- CM 401 Creative Professionals
- HIST 363: 20th Century Popular, Mass & Counter-Culture
- SD 360: Dynamics of Effective Leadership (WI)
Game Design and Development Concentration Requirement (12 credits)
Complete 12 credits from the following:
- CM 340 The Modern Game Industry
- CM 341 Writing and Storytelling for Video Games
- CM 342 Applied Game Design
- CM 343 Game Level Design
- CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- CM 358 Web Series Production
- CM 359 Branded Entertainment: Online Video Campaign
- CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- CM 391 Game Design Project
- CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- CM 402 Archival Research for Media Makers
- CM 403 Special Topics
Capstone Requirement: 6 UD Credits
- CM 489 Pre-Capstone Experience (WI)
- CM 490 Senior Project or CM 491 Senior Practicum
Electives
Game Design and Development Concentration Electives (9 credits)
Complete 9 credits from the following:
- ART 320 Web Design & Development
- BUSA 300 Principles of Marketing
- BUSA 304 Consumer Behavior
- BUSA 305 Advertising & Promotion Management
- CM 201 Forensic Photography
- CM 311 Audio Post Production I
- CM 315 Interactive Applications
- CM 316 User Experience
- CM 317 Motion Graphics
- CM 321 Representations of Film/TV Productions
- CM 322 Documentary Film Research & Development
- CM 330 Audio Post Production II
- *CM 340 The Modern Game Industry
- *CM 341 Writing and Storytelling for Video Games
- *CM 342 Applied Game Design
- *CM 343 Game Level Design
- CM 350 Creative Strategy
- CM 351 Innovative Advertising
- *CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- CM 353 Making a Short Film
- CM 354 Short copy for Campaigns
- *CM 358 Web Series Production
- *CM 359 Branded Entertainment: Online Video Campaign
- CM 378 Visual Depictions of the Human Experience and Media Power
- *CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- *CM 391 Game Design Project
- *CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- *CM 402 Archival Research for Media Makers
- *CM 403 Special Topics
- CM 430 Mastering Social Media
- ENG 317 Pidgin Creative Writing Workshop
- ENG 300c Introduction to Cultural Theory
- ENG 360 Literature & Film
- ENG 361 History of Film
- ENG 367(A) Film Genres and Directors a) Film Noir; b) The Western; c) Gangster Film; d) Science Fiction Film; e) The Road Movie
- ENG 368(A) Topics in Television Studies a) TV and American Culture; b) The TV Medical Drama; and c) Television Auteurs
- ENG 385 Fairy Tales and Their Adaptations
- ENG 441 Gender & Sexuality in Literature & Film
- HIST 243 Asia Cool: Modern Asia & Pop Culture
- HIST 311 Chinese Culture
- HIST 321 Japanese Culture
- HIST 325 Asian Economies, Business & Consumers
- HIST 326 Japan Cool: Anime, Manga, and Film
- HIST 496 Contemporary Oceanic Film
- HPST 304 Hawaiian-Pacific Traditions
- HPST 461 Traditional Art of Hawaii
- HPST 462 Traditional Art of the Pacific
- HPST 477 Polynesian and Micronesian Mythology
- HPST 478 Hawaiian Mythology I
- HPST 479 Hawaiian Mythology II
- ICS 113 Database Fundamentals
- ICS 184 Network Fundamentals
- ICS 211 Introduction to Computer Science II
- ICS 240 Operating Systems
- MGT 301 Business Ethics
- MGT 320 Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
- PHIL 439 Philosophy and Film
*Courses may only be used once to fulfill the Communication & New Media Technologies Concentration OR Concentration Elective requirement
Electives Requirement (17-26 credits)
Check with your College Success Advisor to confirm how many electives are needed.
Program Overview
As a student in the Game Design and Development concentration, you’ll experience the entire game development cycle—from creating concept art and UI & UX for games to coding for artificial intelligence and virtual reality gaming experiences. Students will develop specialized skills that prepare them for cutting-edge careers in one of the most vibrant, multifaceted, and expansive industries ever. Students will acquire the breadth of knowledge needed to build a career not just in game programming but in other industries that use gaming and simulation, from education to healthcare and public policy.
Careers and Earning Potential
- Game/Level Designer: $88,000 (indeed.com)
- Animation VFX: $69,560 (bls.gov)
- Character Concept Artist: $65,000 (indeed.com)
- 3D Character Artist: $65,000 (indeed.com)
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the concentration in Design and Media, students will be able to:
Production Skills and Technical Knowledge
- Demonstrate proficiency with technology related to contemporary game production
- Create design documentation and detailed paper maps for a professional preproduction package
- Effectively use visual and code-based scripting to implement game and level mechanics
Conceptual Thinking
- Identify, gather, assess, record, and research relevant information for a game idea
- Design, organize, and build game prototypes in established game engines
- Analyze and discuss game trends and issues
Written and Oral Communication
- Clearly and professionally present work and ideas
- Evaluate and critique work in chosen game area
Visual Communication
- Integrate objects, environments, characters, and props into a cohesive game experience
- Use appropriate media to communicate ideas throughout the design process
- Draw, design, and render forms (2D/3D) to game industry standards
Professional Readiness
- Produce a professional demo reel or portfolio which meets industry standards
- Work cooperatively and effectively in a professional production environment
- Identify strengths within game development and/or design and develop a portfolio tailored to showcase them
- Practice meeting deadlines and submit work according to professional presentation standards
Contact an Advisor
Sharla Hanaoka, Associate Director Creative Media
Contact an Admission SpecialistDesign and Media
Prerequisites
Option 1: Students with an earned degree from one of the following programs.
- AS in Television Production (Leeward CC)
- AS in Digital Media (Leeward CC)
- AS in New Media Arts (Kapi‘olani CC)
- AS in MELE (Honolulu CC)
- AS in Communication Arts (Honolulu CC)
- Graduates of other creative media or communications programs will also be considered for admission.
Option 2: UH West O’ahu Creative Media Degree Requirements
Students who have earned an AS from a UH Media Design program may have an adequate background to waive these requirements. Please consult with Sharla Hanaoka.
Undergraduate General Education Requirements
- General Education Requirements (31 Credits)
- Writing Skills Requirement (3 credits)
- Lower Division Math Requirement (0-3 credits)
Creative Media Foundational Requirement: (15-18 credits)
- ART 112 Introduction to Digital Art (Will satisfy general ed DA requirement)
- CM 120 Introduction to Digital Video
Plus, choose 12 credits from the list below:
- ART 101 Introduction to Visual Arts
- ART 107D Introduction to Digital Photography
- ART 113D Introduction to Digital Drawing
- ART 126 3D Computer Graphics
- ART 221 Design for Print and Web
- ART 229 Interface Design I
- ART 231 Art Through Applied Geometry
- ART 240 Typography and Color Design
- CM 140 History of Video Games
- CM 142 Introduction to Video Game Design
- CM 143 Introduction to Game Art
- CM 150 Film Analysis and Storytelling
- CM 151 Pre-Production: Digital Video
- CM 152 Principles of Video Editing
- CM 153 Sound Design for Digital Media
- CM 155 Introduction to Screenwriting
- CM 160 The Mobile Word
- CM 161 Intro to iOS Mobile App Development
- CM 251 Animation and Special Effects
- ICS 101 Digital Tools for the Information World
- ICS 111 Introduction to Computer Science
Core Requirements
Creative Media Core Requirements (21 Credits):
- CM 256 Creatives in Media
- ENG 313 Introduction to Creative Writing (WI)
- CM 314 Music, Sound & Media
- CM 320 Creative Producing
- CM 401 Creative Professionals
- HIST 363: 20th Century Popular, Mass & Counter-Culture
- SD 360: Dynamics of Effective Leadership (WI)
Design & Media Concentration Requirement (12 credits)
Complete 12 credits from the following:
- ART 320 Web Design & Development
- CM 315 Interactive Applications
- CM 316 User Experience
- CM 317 Motion Graphics
- CM 350 Creative Strategy
- CM 351 Innovative Advertising
- CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- CM 358 Web Series Production
- CM 378 Visual Depictions of the Human Experience and Media Power
- CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- CM 391 Game Design Project
- CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- CM 403 Special Topics
Capstone Requirement: 6 UD Credits
- CM 489 Pre-Capstone Experience (WI)
- CM 490 Senior Project or CM 491 Senior Practicum
Electives
Design & Media Concentration Electives (9 credits)
Complete 9 credits from the following:
- *ART 320 Web Design & Development
- BUSA 300 Principles of Marketing
- BUSA 304 Consumer Behavior
- BUSA 305 Advertising & Promotion Management
- CM 201 Forensic Photography
- CM 311 Audio Post Production I
- *CM 315 Interactive Applications
- *CM 316 User Experience
- *CM 317 Motion Graphics
- CM 321 Representations of Film/TV Productions
- CM 322 Documentary Film Research & Development
- CM 330 Audio Post Production II
- CM 340 The Modern Game Industry
- CM 341 Writing and Storytelling for Video Games
- CM 342 Applied Game Design
- CM 343 Game Level Design
- *CM 350 Creative Strategy
- *CM 351 Innovative Advertising
- *CM 352 Transmedia and Emerging Media
- CM 353 Making a Short Film
- CM 354 Short copy for Campaigns
- *CM 358 Web Series Production
- CM 359 Branded Entertainment: Online Video Campaign
- *CM 378 Visual Depictions of the Human Experience and Media Power
- *CM 390 Creative Media Internship
- CM 391 Game Design Project
- CM 400(A) Master Class: Advanced Screenwriting (a);Stop-Motion Animation (b); Documentary Arts (c)
- CM 402 Archival Research for Media Makers
- *CM 403 Special Topics
- CM 430 Mastering Social Media
- ENG 317 Pidgin Creative Writing Workshop
- ENG 300c Introduction to Cultural Theory
- ENG 360 Literature & Film
- ENG 361 History of Film
- ENG 367(A) Film Genres and Directors a) Film Noir; b) The Western; c) Gangster Film; d) Science Fiction Film; e) The Road Movie
- ENG 368(A) Topics in Television Studies a) TV and American Culture; b) The TV Medical Drama; and c) Television Auteurs
- ENG 385 Fairy Tales and Their Adaptations
- ENG 441 Gender & Sexuality in Literature & Film
- HIST 243 Asia Cool: Modern Asia & Pop Culture
- HIST 311 Chinese Culture
- HIST 321 Japanese Culture
- HIST 325 Asian Economies, Business & Consumers
- HIST 326 Japan Cool: Anime, Manga, and Film
- HIST 496 Contemporary Oceanic Film
- HPST 304 Hawaiian-Pacific Traditions
- HPST 461 Traditional Art of Hawaii
- HPST 462 Traditional Art of the Pacific
- HPST 477 Polynesian and Micronesian Mythology
- HPST 478 Hawaiian Mythology I
- HPST 479 Hawaiian Mythology II
- ICS 113 Database Fundamentals
- ICS 184 Network Fundamentals
- ICS 211 Introduction to Computer Science II
- ICS 240 Operating Systems
- MGT 301 Business Ethics
- MGT 320 Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management
- PHIL 439 Philosophy and Film
*Courses may only be used once to fulfill the Design & Media Concentration OR Concentration Elective requirement
Electives Requirement (17-26 credits)
Check with your College Success Advisor to confirm how many electives are needed.
Program Overview
The Design and Media concentration educates and trains designers for the communication needs of industry and society. Emphasis is placed on the conception, creation, planning, and realization of visual solutions to complex problems in contemporary cultures. Students integrate methodology, prototyping, aesthetics, human factors, technology, materials, context, and audience to develop strategies and solutions that give form to print, screen, and the built environment.
Careers and Earning Potential
*Salary is based on national averages.
- Interaction Designer: $83,000 (indeed.com)
- Visual Designer: $76,000 (indeed.com)
- Web Designer: $65,000 (indeed.com)
- Front-end Developer: $100,000 (indeed.com)
- Graphic Artist: $40,000 (indeed.com)
- Digital Designer: $65,000 (indeed.com)
- Advertising and Marketing Manager: $132,620 (bls.gov)
A student will gain a variety of communication, computer and video skills to help prepare them for careers in advertising, media, communications and more.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the concentration in Design and Media, students will be able to:
Production Skills and Technical Knowledge
- Demonstrate an understanding of current interactive technologies, tools, and apps by effectively using them to execute projects
- Demonstrate programming and coding skills by building functional products and prototypes that simulate the intended interactive experience
Conceptual Thinking
- Collect data appropriate for a given project
- Use research findings to develop design ideas centered on target users
- Identify user demographics and diagram the user experience
- Produce a consistent interactive experience in a medium appropriate to the user’s needs
- Analyze and discuss design trends and issues
Written and Oral Communication
- Clearly and professionally present work and ideas
- Evaluate and critique work in chosen medium
Visual Communication
- Apply grid-based visual compositions that demonstrate the principles of design
- Apply typographic theory to choices that effectively communicate information hierarchy and mood towards a given a platform
- Demonstrate effective use of color and imagery for an intended audience
Professional Readiness
- Produce a cohesive portfolio tailored to reflect stated career goals
- Work cooperatively and effectively in a professional production environment
- Practice meeting deadlines and submit work according to professional presentation standards
Contact an Advisor
Sharla Hanaoka, Associate Director Creative Media
Contact an Admission Specialist