Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design
Hours: 9 On-Campus
About
The Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design at Fort Hays State University provides students with a solid foundation in graphic design and animation principles. This certificate can be combined with any FHSU program, offering flexibility and expanding students’ educational scope.
Designed for those interested in advertising, gaming, film, or music production careers, the skills acquired through this certificate enhance versatility and marketability in a competitive job market.
Why pursue a Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design equips students with foundational and advanced graphic design and motion graphics skills. Built with flexibility in mind, this certificate can be combined with any degree at Fort Hays State University, allowing students to broaden their expertise and enhance their career prospects across multiple industries.
Offered in an on-campus format, the certificate provides an immersive learning environment where students gain hands-on experience essential to success in the competitive field of motion design. With access to the latest software and technologies, students are prepared to meet current industry demands.
Who is this program for?
This certificate is ideal for a diverse range of students and professionals seeking to advance their skills and career opportunities in motion design.
- Students majoring in graphic design who are interested in expanding their expertise in motion graphics and animation
- Individuals interested in pursuing careers in digital media, including advertising, gaming, and film
- Professionals working in the creative industry looking to gain additional skills in motion design to enhance their capabilities and job prospects
- Aspiring motion designers seeking to specialize in creating dynamic visual content for various media platforms
- Non-majors interested in gaining foundational knowledge in graphic design and motion graphics
Real-World Applications
Students gain theoretical knowledge through practical, hands-on projects and apply it to real-world scenarios. They complete professional advertising, digital media, and gaming tasks, building a portfolio highlighting their skills and creativity.
The certificate also emphasizes current industry practices, ensuring students master the latest tools, techniques, and trends shaping the field. Upon completion, they possess a strong, job-ready skill set directly applicable to their chosen career paths.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Staying current with advancements in motion design is essential in today’s fast-evolving creative landscape. Fort Hays State University ensures its curriculum remains current by continually integrating new software, tools, and emerging industry techniques.
For example, the 3D motion course introduces students to the advanced features of Cinema 4D, a leading motion graphics and animation software. Students are also encouraged to innovatively apply traditional design principles, exploring modern contexts such as virtual reality and interactive media.
Hands-on Activities
From the very first course, students participate in hands-on activities that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The curriculum features a variety of projects focused on motion graphics, animation, and other forms of digital media, all created using industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects.
The certificate also includes collaborative workshops where students work in teams to solve complex design challenges. These experiences strengthen technical skills while building competencies in teamwork, project management, and meeting deadlines, all essential for success in the motion design industry.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamentals of motion graphics
- Animation techniques
- Storyboarding and visual planning
- 3D modeling basics
- Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D
How You’ll Learn:
- Hands-on digital projects
- Use of industry-standard software
- Conceptual and creative thinking
- Visual storytelling techniques
- Integration of design and animation principles
The core courses establish a solid foundation in graphic design principles, emphasizing their application to time-based media such as video and animation. Students begin with fundamentals in motion graphics and visual storytelling using Adobe After Effects. As the certificate progresses, students explore advanced topics, undertake complex projects, and refine their skills. The curriculum includes 3D animation, covering modeling, texturing, and rendering with Cinema 4D.
ART 349: Introduction to Animation
This course introduces students to motion design and animation fundamentals, beginning with accessible, traditional animation techniques and progressing into digital environments. Students will develop an understanding of the pre-production process and gain insight into standard animation workflows.
ART 651: Motion Design I
This course expands animation knowledge in Adobe After Effects, focusing on motion design principles, visual storytelling, and applying traditional design skills to time-based media.
ART 652: 3D Motion Design
This course introduces students to Cinema 4D and the complete 3D design workflow, from modeling and texturing to animation and rendering. With a strong emphasis on creative storytelling and design, students will explore how 3D techniques can be applied across print, packaging, and motion graphics.
Discover the full Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete the Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design gain access to a wide range of career opportunities. Some of the most promising career paths include:
Motion Designer
Motion designers create dynamic animations and motion graphics for television, film, video games, and digital marketing. They combine graphic design and animation techniques to produce visually engaging content that captures audience attention.
3D Animator
3D animators create three-dimensional animations essential in industries like video games, virtual reality, and film. They are responsible for modeling, texturing, animating, and rendering characters, objects, and environments.
Graphic Designer with Motion Graphics Expertise
Graphic designers with motion graphics skills are in high demand across advertising, marketing, and media industries. Certificate holders can seamlessly integrate motion graphics into their designs, distinguishing themselves and enhancing their value within creative agencies and marketing teams.
Digital Media Specialist
Digital media specialists manage and create digital content across multiple platforms, including social media, websites, and advertising campaigns. Their role involves producing engaging videos, animations, and interactive media that attract and retain audiences.
Advertising Designer
Advertising designers involve conceptualizing and executing creative designs that effectively communicate a brand's message to its target audience. Designers with motion graphics skills are highly valuable in creating digital ads that engage viewers through movement and interactivity.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $1,833.57* (on-campus) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several programs that complement the Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design for those seeking to expand their expertise or explore related fields. These programs provide additional skills and knowledge that enhance art, design, and digital media career prospects.
- BFA in Art (Graphic Design)
- BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation)
- Certificate in Audio Production
- Certificate in Front-End Web Development
- Certificate in Full Stack Web Development
- Minor in Marketing
No, a portfolio is not required for admission to this certificate, making it accessible to beginners and those new to motion design.
Students will primarily use Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D, industry-standard tools for motion design and 3D animation.
Yes, the Certificate in Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design can be combined with any degree program at Fort Hays State University, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals.
The hands-on activities focus on creating motion graphics, animations, and digital content, providing students with practical experience and a portfolio of work.
Students who complete this certificate can pursue careers as motion designers, 3D animators, graphic designers, digital media specialists, and advertising designers.
Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts
The School of Visual and Performing Arts at FHSU inspires creativity within a supportive and passionate community. Each program in Art and Design, along with Music and Theatre, offers students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether students aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, expert faculty provide hands-on learning experiences that both inspire and challenge.
With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, students gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in their chosen fields. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, these programs equip students with the tools to make a lasting impact in the world of visual and performing arts.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA): Connect with industry professionals and fellow graphic design students, attend conferences, and expand your network.
- Arts for Social Change: Use art as a catalyst for positive social change through lectures, workshops, and public events.
- Ceramica Clay Club (CCC): Participate in ceramic workshops, art events, and interdisciplinary projects that spread art into the community.
- FHSU Theater: Dive into acting, writing, and directing through performances and peer education programs.
- Fe Sculpture Club: Explore metalworking and host art events both on campus and in the community.
- Interior Design Student Organization (IDSA): Prepare for a career in interior design through networking, field trips, and professional development.
- Creative Arts Society (CAS): Enhance diversity and culture through guest-artist lectures, workshops, and community art projects.
- Collaborative Art Project (CAP): The Collaborative Art Project is a partnership between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, FHSU students, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK). Schmierbach and the students lead workshops for DSNWK individuals, offering structured art experiences focused on weaving, drawing, and photography. The project aims to expand access to the arts within the Hays community, creating more opportunities for individuals to engage with and benefit from artistic expression.
- Art Eaters Art History Club: The Art Eaters Art History Club is a community dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of art across cultures and throughout history. Open to all students regardless of experience, the club offers opportunities to explore art movements, artists, and various forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for the arts, the club also connects members with influential figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills such as curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, the club cultivates a deeper understanding of art’s cultural significance.
- Tiger Marching Band: This group is open to all students who enjoy marching band and want to be a part of the Tiger Marching Band tradition.
- Pep Band: The FHSU pep band provides musical entertainment for FHSU Basketball games. Open to all students.
- Collegiate National Association for Music Education (CNAfME): This student organization is dedicated to developing music education professionals, including workshops, training, field experiences, and annual participation in the Kansas Music Educators Association state conference in Wichita.
- Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (S-NATS): Vocalists participate in workshops, training, and attendance at the regional NATS workshop and competition each fall.
- Music Theatre: Participate in a fully realized stage production produced each year, from a stage role to back-stage positions and technical support.
- Certificate
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
