The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School at Universal Studios Florida Sound Stage Universal Studios Plaza Orlando, Florida 32819

Transcription

1 The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School at Universal Studios Florida Sound Stage Universal Studios Plaza Orlando, Florida Catalog Version XXXII Phone: (407) Fax: (407) Web: -- Page 1 of 56 --

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3 The Digital Animation and Visual Effects School The DAVE School a division of Florida Technical College, Inc. (FTC) Challenger Parkway, Orlando, FL A nonpublic career education school providing technical training for people who want to become Visual Effects or Game Artists David Ruggieri, President and COO Dr. David Penn, Executive Director Florida Technical College is a college accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) to award Bachelor degrees, Associate of Science degrees, and diplomas. ACICS is listed as a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. ACICS is located at 750 First Street, NE, Suite 980, Washington, DC (202) ACICS has approved the DAVE School programs and ACICS has approved the DAVE School as a location of Florida Technical College (FTC). Florida Technical College is licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education. Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL , toll-free (888) The Commission for Independent Education has approved the DAVE School as a location of FTC. All photographs in this catalog were taken at the existing DAVE School facilities in Orlando, FL. -- Page 3 of 56 --

4 Table of Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS... 4 FROM THE FOUNDER... 9 ABOUT THE DAVE SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT OCCUPATIONAL GOALS AND SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY HISTORY SCHOOL FOUNDERS DAVE SCHOOL FACILITIES PROGRAMS AND CURRICULUM VISUAL EFFECTS PRODUCTION PROGRAM DAVE 101 DIGITAL MODELING AND SCULPTING DAVE 201 FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER ANIMATION DAVE 301 MOVIE MAGIC THE ART OF VISUAL EFFECTS DAVE 401 STEREOSCOPIC 3D PRODUCTION GAME PRODUCTION PROGRAM DAVE 101 DIGITAL MODELING AND SCULPTING DAVE 201 FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER ANIMATION GAME 301 VIDEO GAME PRODUCTION GAME 401 INTERACTION AND GAME SYSTEMS GAME 501 FINAL GAME PROJECT DEVELOPMENT DEFINITION OF A CLOCK HOUR COURSE NUMBERING SYSTEM CHANGING PROGRAMS MAKE-UP WORK ADDITION AND CANCELLATION OF COURSES CURRICULUM ADVISORY BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF VISUAL EFFECTS PRODUCTION AND GAME PRODUCTION FACULTY PROGRAM TUITION PAYMENT SCHEDULE FINANCIAL INFORMATION FINANCING Page 4 of 56 --

5 INSPIRED ARTIST SCHOLARSHIP CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY VETERANS REFUND POLICY ACADEMIC CALENDARS VISUAL EFFECTS PRODUCTION PROGRAM START DATES GAME PRODUCTION PROGRAM START DATES HOURS OF OPERATION HOLIDAYS AND PROGRAM BREAKS ACADEMIC TERMS ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ADMISSIONS PROCESS ADVANCED PLACEMENT AND TRANSFERENCE OF CREDIT.. 39 VETERAN S CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS EDUCATION OR TRAINING SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) EVALUATION POINTS REQUIRED COMPLETION RATES REQUIRED GRADE POINT AVERAGE MAXIMUM TIME FRAME WARNINGS PROBATION APPEALS CUMULATIVE GPA GRADING SYSTEM FOR ASSIGNMENTS RETAKING CLASSES GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS STUDENT SERVICES ACADEMIC COUNSELING SOCIAL EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES DISABILITY SERVICES RULES AND REGULATIONS ATTENDANCE TARDINESS Page 5 of 56 --

6 VETERANS ATTENDANCE LEAVES OF ABSENCE RE-ENTRY STUDENT RECORDS CONDUCT ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT SEXUAL HARASSMENT DISCIPLINARY ACTION APPEALS POLICY GRIEVANCE POLICY DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT CONTACT INFORMATION FLORIDA TECHNICAL COLLEGE, INC. ADMINISTRATORS LEGAL OWNERSHIP / GOVERNING BODY Page 6 of 56 --

7 Florida Technical College has Continuing Education programs and two academic units, the Digital Animation & Visual Effects School (DAVE School) and LaSalle Computer Learning Center (LCLC). This catalog focuses on courses and policies related to the DAVE School programs that are not offered through FTC, FTC Continuing Education, or LCLC. Catalogs that focus on courses and policies related to programs offered through FTC and LCLC are published separately. -- Page 7 of 56 --

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9 From the Founder Prior to founding The DAVE School with my wife Anne, I was an Animator and Visual Effects Supervisor at Foundation Imaging, one of the top visual effects houses in Hollywood. As part of my job I handled artist recruitment; in 1999, I personally hired over 60 animators to work on an all computer animated version of Starship Troopers. I screened hundreds of unacceptable demo reels. Even the worst of them showed a great deal of effort, but a terrible lack of direction and an unrefined skill set. The reels I got from animation school graduates also failed to demonstrate the qualifications most facilities require. I could not find a single school that consistently produced qualified entry-level animators with practical skills in the creation of visual effects So I started one that does. The DAVE School offers complete immersion into the art and science of computer graphics with extensive practice under qualified supervision. My experience as an animator, producer, and recruiter, gave me a unique appreciation for what it takes to succeed in this field. Working with industry colleagues from several Los Angeles based effects houses, I created courses with exercises based on actual work assignments. The program was designed to give you a powerful command of the tools used in animation and visual effects production. It was also designed to strengthen your aesthetic senses and artistic development. Computer animation and visual effects are relatively new fields, making practical training more important than ever. The days of the self-taught artist breaking into the business without formal training are all but over. The demand for top-notch work is increasing, with generous salaries available for the most talented. For this reason, employers expect you to perform with skill and confidence on day one, making on-the-job training extremely rare. Now in its 15 th year, The DAVE School and its graduates continue to write new chapters in entertainment history. They are highly skilled, and well prepared to enter the workforce. Be a part of history! Jeff Scheetz DAVE School Founder -- Page 9 of 56 --

10 About The DAVE School Mission Statement The DAVE School was created to consistently provide specialized career training in the art and science of computer animation and visual effects as it relates to motion pictures, television and games. Occupational Goals and School Philosophy Computer animation and visual effects for gaming and film are exciting fields for those with the right blend of talent and skill. The DAVE School believes that it can make a huge difference in a student's development. Every lesson plan is based on objectives faced by professionals on a daily basis. History The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School was founded on June 8, 2000, by Anne and Jeffery Scheetz. At the time Jeff was a Visual Effects Supervisor and the school was a way to institutionalize his body of knowledge in computer animation production and pass on techniques and traditions to the next generation of digital artists. School Founders With over 20 years of experience in media production, Jeff has amassed a thorough knowledge of visual storytelling through film, video, and animation. Jeff and his wife, Anne, founded The DAVE School in 2000, offering a program of complete immersion into the art and science of computer animation with extensive practice under industry level supervision. Many of the school s animation and visual effects shorts are award winners. Before The DAVE School, Jeff worked for the pioneering visual effects company Foundation Imaging, where he supervised visual effects projects for Star Trek: Voyager, Babylon 5, and Roughnecks: Starship Troopers Chronicles. In addition, he also worked for Nickelodeon Studios, Universal Studios Florida, Walt Disney Imagineering, and The Disney MGM Studios, where he met Anne. -- Page 10 of 56 --

11 DAVE School Facilities At Universal Studios Florida The DAVE School is located on the backlot of Universal Studios Florida. Our facility consists of a 36,055 square foot space inside Sound Stage 25. In addition to its two theme parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, Universal operates a fully functional motion picture and television production facility. During the program, students tour many of these facilities. Certain assignments require use of Universal s facilities, so each student is issued an annual pass, which grants him or her access to the theme parks during operating hours. We also enjoy use of Universal s backstage areas including the employee cafeteria. Learning Lab Classroom Students beginning their training find themselves in a Learning Lab Classroom. The Learning Lab Classroom is arranged in a traditional seating plan with a computer workstation for each student. Students start their training on workstations complete with industry-standard technology. -- Page 11 of 56 --

12 Studio Lab Classroom Students meet in the Studio Lab Classroom in the later portions of each program. This setting is a more collaborative environment similar to a working animation studio. Workstations found in this lab are real workhorses that can handle most anything thrown at them and are equipped for both video editing and DVD authoring. Shooting Stage Many of our visual effects courses and projects require shooting scenes and elements on a Green Screen stage. Our stage has a permanent 60 by 25 foot seamless L-shaped chroma key green cyclorama installed with a lighting rig using Keno-Flow lights. Keno- Flow is the industry standard for Green Screen photography and compositing. Motion Capture Studio Motion Capture is a process where an actor wears a special suit covered with sensors. These reflective sensors, in conjunction with multiple cameras, are used to record the actor's motion data to the computer, which is then applied to a computer animated character. Motion Capture can be used in Visual Effects to populate the deck of a computer generated ship (Titanic), in video games to animate characters (Call of Duty), or to bring an animated creature to life (Dawn of the Planet of the Apes). -- Page 12 of 56 --

13 3D Lecture Theater Instruction and guest presentations often take place in our 3D Lecture Theater. Part of our curriculum includes film study and project analysis; therefore the theater is equipped with a stereo sound system and a stereoscopic 3D projector system. Unlike most schools, our lecture and lab have been integrated into one class. The instructor you have for a lecture is the same person who will then supervise the exercise. All of the school facilities will accommodate wheelchairs and are ADA compliant. Library and Resource Center The School maintains a library of industry-specific periodicals, reference books, video tutorials, blueprints, full-length feature films, models, demo reels, etc., regularly supplementing this reserve with additional materials and project specific resources. Students are permitted to borrow and must checkout items. Program completion certification will not be rewarded until all materials borrowed during enrollment have been returned. Students will be held responsible for replacing any items deemed non-returnable due to loss, damage, etc. Textbooks and Required Reading Any textbooks required during the program are loaned to each student for use while enrolled; students who wish to own their own copies may choose to purchase these titles at their own expense. Completion certification will not be rewarded until all books assigned to a student during the program (as well as any library materials) have been returned. Students will be held responsible for the replacement of or reimbursement for books deemed non-returnable due to loss or damage. -- Page 13 of 56 --

14 Programs and Curriculum Visual Effects Production Program The Visual Effects Production Program consists of four terms (which we call "Blocks"). Each Block is 300 clock hours, during which time a single course is taught. The course for each block focuses on a major discipline within the computer graphics industry. A number of subjects related to that discipline are taught throughout the Block. Our program is designed to give students a broad range of skills. This is an important distinction. Many computer graphics schools require students to specialize in a specific area of study or commit to a specific track. We believe this limits your career options after graduation. The diversity of our program allows students to pursue a wide range of jobs in the computer graphics industry, from feature film and television effects to game art, print advertising, architectural visualization and military simulation. The disciplines learned in the first three Blocks come together in the fourth and final Block where students engage in actual production. The Block 4 project is a hallmark of the DAVE School. It defines the graduating class and ensures that every student coming out of the program has a working knowledge of the procedures used in the Hollywood animation and visual effects industry. The instructors for each Block are specialists in their respective fields and have been chosen for their outstanding work as artists and educators. Each has a passion to share their experience and help prepare you for a career as a production artist. Our program is taught with the assumption that each student is computer literate, but has no prior experience in computer graphics or animation. We follow the "teach a man to fish" philosophy. We will show you the proper tools and techniques used by industry professionals. We will mentor you and provide both critique and support. We will not walk you through your projects step-by-step. This "tough love" approach ensures that every student is capable of handling the challenges they will face in the real world. Our ideal student is one who has a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a passion for problem solving. -- Page 14 of 56 --

15 The grading for each block is based on the cumulative GPA from all course projects. Students must have a passing grade from each Block in order to progress through the program. Classes meet five hours per day, five days per week. Lab time during class hours is provided, however we expect each student to dedicate an appropriate amount of time outside of class to work on assignments and meet project deadlines. DAVE 101 Digital Modeling and Sculpting The purpose of this Block is to give students a comprehensive understanding of 3D modeling and digital sculpting techniques needed to construct objects for feature films and video games. Students who complete this term will have a concrete knowledge of hard surface and organic modeling techniques, UV mapping, and digital sculpting. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): None DAVE 201 Fundamentals of Computer Animation The purpose of this Block is to give students a thorough understanding of computer animation. Students who complete this term will have a solid understanding of camera and vehicle animation, parent/child hierarchies, character rigging, character animation, facial animation, lip syncing, and motion capture for film and gaming. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): DAVE 101 DAVE 301 Movie Magic The Art of Visual Effects The purpose of this Block is to give students a solid understanding of visual effects production for film and television. Students who complete this term will have an understanding of film effects history, node and layer based compositing, rotoscoping, green screen keying, color grading, 2D/3D tracking, crowd replication, matte painting, set extensions, particle simulations, fluid dynamics, and stereoscopic conversion techniques. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): DAVE 101, and DAVE Page 15 of 56 --

16 DAVE 401 Stereoscopic 3D Production The purpose of this Block is to give students a real-world understanding of what it is like to work on a stereoscopic Hollywood production. Students who complete this term will have an understanding of visual effects history, industry standard production techniques, typical 3D/VFX production pipelines, the importance of working as a team, how to apply problem solving skills to meet production deadlines, and the various techniques used in the industry for stereoscopic 3D conversion. The production block ensures that you are properly prepared for a career as an animator or visual effects artist. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): DAVE 101, DAVE 201, and DAVE 301 Game Production Program The first twelve months of the program focus on education and skills training, broken down into three month terms that we call Blocks. The last three months provide an amazing studio experience; students learn practical skills by working as part of a specialized team on the development of a game. This program is designed to give each student practical and thorough exposure to each of the major disciplines needed for game art content creation. This includes games produced by both major game studios working on AAA titles and independent production houses working on mobile gaming and other applications. Here you find your specific skill-set and sharpen it until you are of real value to employers. The instructors for each Block are specialists in their respective fields and have been chosen for their outstanding work as artists and educators. Each has a passion to share their experience and help prepare you for a career as a game artist. Our program is taught with the assumption that each student is computer literate, but has no prior experience in computer graphics. We follow the "teach a man to fish" philosophy. We will show you the proper tools and techniques used by industry professionals. We will mentor you and provide both critique and support. But we will not walk you through your projects step-by-step. This "tough love" approach ensures that every student is capable of handling the challenges they will face in the real world. -- Page 16 of 56 --

17 Our ideal student is one who has a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a passion for problem solving. The grading for each block is based on the cumulative GPA from all course projects. Students must have a passing grade from each Block in order to progress through the program. Classes meet five hours per day, five days per week. Lab time during class hours is provided, however we expect each student to dedicate an appropriate amount of time outside of class to work on assignments and meet project deadlines. DAVE 101 Digital Modeling and Sculpting The purpose of this Block is to give students a comprehensive understanding of 3D modeling and digital sculpting techniques needed to construct objects for feature films and video games. Students who complete this term will have a concrete knowledge of hard surface and organic modeling techniques, UV mapping, and digital sculpting. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): None DAVE 201 Fundamentals of Computer Animation The purpose of this Block is to give students a thorough understanding of computer animation. Students who complete this term will have a solid understanding of camera and vehicle animation, parent/child hierarchies, character rigging, character animation, facial animation, lip syncing, and motion capture for film and gaming. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): DAVE 101 GAME 301 Video Game Production Professional game production is the creation and production of games that range from computer, handheld, console, and arcade games to games on the internet, games on mobile phones, and other wireless game applications. After game design documents are ready and designs are complete, a team of skilled artists is assembled as the game moves into production. The first six weeks of this course provides a practical overview of the entire game asset creation process on a simplified scale. Everything taught in the rest of the course is a deeper exploration of each of these areas. Students will -- Page 17 of 56 --

18 learn how to interpret concept art to model out game environments, characters, and props. Students will also be shown how to tell a story with an environment. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): DAVE 101 and DAVE 201 GAME 401 Interaction and Game Systems All video games are centered on the concept of interaction. Each part of the game is something a player can experience firsthand. Unlike film, players are thrown into a world and can immediately start to interact with it. Game artists are responsible for creating this first level of immersion. This course will focus on bringing the game world to life. Game systems are at the heart of a video game. The systems are what create all the interactivity and motion a player sees in the game. Students will be introduced to the two main systems (player and enemy) seen in most games today. Students will be provided with a shell system that will require them to create assets based on the rules for that system. Those systems include, movement, attack, weather, A.I., etc. Students will also be shown how the process of how to triage and fix bugs to better understand how the full art studio pipeline works in a game studio. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): DAVE 101, DAVE 201, and GAME 301 GAME 501 Final Game Project Development By this point in our program, you have received in-depth education and moderate experience in every major discipline used in game art production. Now it is time to choose a specialty and elevate those skills to the level required by top employers. In a counseling session with the Academic Director, we review your academic progress as well as your talent, interests, and career goals. You then become part of a specialized production team. You will work as you would at a major game studio. An experienced production manager will assign you tasks that contribute to the eventual completion of the project and will supervise your work. The production manager is ultimately responsible for creative guidance and the quality of every production element. By meeting his or her standards, you will be producing industry quality work (that will be presented on your demo reel) every single day. -- Page 18 of 56 --

19 Your graduating class will create an original game level that must be completed in time to screen at graduation. Working against an unforgiving countdown clock you will find creative ways to complete amazing work on deadline. (300 Hours) Prerequisite(s): DAVE 101, DAVE 201, GAME 301, and GAME 401 Definition of a Clock Hour One clock hour equals 50 minutes class time plus 10 minutes break. Course Numbering System A course number is preceded by an alpha code, and three numerical digits. The alpha code represents either digital animation and visual effects DAVE or game production GAME. The three digits represent the sequence in which the courses are generally completed, i.e., 101 prior to 201; 201 prior to 301; and so forth. After Graduation Lab Access This resource is available to our graduates who are in good standing, indefinitely, at no additional charge. Changing Programs Once a student has begun DAVE 301 or GAME 301, they are expected to stay with the program as planned. In the event that he or she wishes to transfer from one program to another, he or she may do so within the first two days of the term. Should he or she decide to change programs on or after the third day he or she will be required to retake the entire course from the beginning during the next time it is offered. This will be subject to availability and will be counted as a leave of absence with regard to the maximum time frame allowed to complete the program. Make-Up Work All assignments are due on the date defined by the instructor, without regard to attendance. Only tests and quizzes missed due to attendance may be made up. Make-up tests must be taken on the student's first day back in class. It is a student's responsibility to coordinate a make-up test with the instructor. Failure to do so on the first day back will result in a score of zero for the missed test or quiz. Students missing an end-of-term test or quiz will not have the opportunity to make it up and will receive a zero. There are no "incomplete" grades issued at The DAVE School. -- Page 19 of 56 --

20 Addition and Cancellation of Courses Both the animation and visual effects industries are always changing. In order to keep current with trends, The DAVE School curriculum is subject to change. Some tutorials or courses may be added or removed at the discretion of the Executive Director and upon notification and/or approval by the Florida Commission for Independent Education and the Accrediting Council of Independent Colleges and Schools. If students would like to explore a past tutorial on their own time, materials will be available upon request. Curriculum Advisory Board In order to keep The DAVE School curriculum current with the latest technology, techniques, and skills required in the digital animation, visual effects, and gaming industries, the program is reviewed annually by a Curriculum Advisory Board comprised of alumni and industry professionals. The Board currently includes: Saham Ali, Director of Information Technology, DAVE School Joseph Babaran, DAVE School Student* Roger Borelli, Instructor, DAVE School Hope Bracken, DAVE School Student* Kirk Cadrette, Visual Effects Supervisor, Falcon s Treehouse Nicole Estilow, DAVE School Student* Angel Gonzalez, Gaming Dean, DAVE School Stephanie Halsall, DAVE School Alumni Erich Hess, DAVE School Student* Matt Killian, Instructor, DAVE School Nicolette Korpolinski, DAVE School Student* Daniel McCollum, DAVE School Student* Wayne Morris, CEO, Wonderland Creative Group Brad Murphy, Associate Director, DAVE School Alex Natali, DAVE School Student* Jeff Scheetz, Executive Director, DAVE School Mark Simon, Master Storyteller, A & S Animation John-Michael Steele, DAVE School Alumni Tai-Jen Su, Technical Artist Supervisor, Cubic Aaron Thibault, VP Production Development/EP, Gearbox William Vaughan, Academic Director, DAVE School Douglas Warren, DAVE School Student* *Indicates enrollment at time of publication -- Page 20 of 56 --

21 Administrative Staff Dr. Dave Penn Executive Director Dr. Dave Penn has hired and managed hundreds of artists, scientists, actors, and educators for over 20 years. A graduate of UCLA and Harvard, Dave holds teaching credentials in film and television production and business, among other fields, along with a Ph.D. A former science and children s museum CEO for nearly ten years, Dave is also our college VP for Academic Affairs, and past producer of a children s television show. He is a screenwriter, has performed in theatre and film in various dramatic and comedic roles, and is a member of The Television Academy of Arts and Sciences. As an arts, scientific and technical executive and educator, he has worked with executives from Disney, Universal, PBS, The National Endowment for the Humanities, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, The United States Congress, The United States Department of Education, and The Florida Division of Cultural Affairs. Visual effects artists bring magic to the movies we all love! Game designers bring joy and happiness to the art of play! Dave encourages you to join our team of artists and designers at our boutique studio where our stellar faculty of award-winning industry professionals produces superior films and games in a real-world production pipeline. Brad Murphy Associate Director Brad was the second employee hired by The DAVE School s founders Anne and Jeff Scheetz in Prior to that, his freelance production career found him on the sets of such television shows as Animal Planet s Petsburgh USA and Good Dog U in positions ranging from Researcher to Office Manager. Having been a Production Coordinator for Walt Disney World s Christmas Parade for ABC, Brad was more than ready to handle a Coordinator position at Haxan Films, the creators of The Blair Witch Project. It was there that he assisted in their resurrection of the great television classic, In Search Of... Brad s passion for film, coupled with his family s strong background in education, eventually led him to The DAVE School where he is often referred to as the glue that holds it all together. Originally from Pennsylvania, Brad earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film & Video Production from Point Park University in His -- Page 21 of 56 --

22 award-winning photographs are the pride of his family, and his short 16mm film, reflection, which he wrote, directed, shot, edited, and conformed, screened at the Pittsburgh Filmmakers Melwood Avenue Grand Opening. Brad s old school pride in, and love for, The DAVE School, is apparent in all he does. William Vaughan Academic Director William, an industry veteran, celebrated author, and acclaimed artist, is no stranger to the DAVE School. From 2004 to 2009 he worked as an instructor and as the school s Director of Industry Relations. He was one of the school s key faculty members and assisted in the development of the school s curriculum. William has been published by probably every major CG magazine, contributed to 17 books, and played a major role in the marketing and development of LightWave 3D. While working for NewTek as the company s LightWave 3D Evangelist, he authored more than 300 tutorials on topics ranging from modeling and animation to dynamics and simulation. A recipient of several New Media Addy Awards for clients including Compaq, New Line Cinema, and Halliburton, William's focus is on continuously improving the quality of education at The DAVE School, while further establishing the school's presence as the leader in the industry. Originally from Texas, William earned his Associate of Applied Science in Visual Communication Degree from The Art Institute of Houston. He believes The DAVE School offers a unique blend of education and community that he s yet to experience anywhere else. William recently completed work on his latest book, Digital Modeling, for New Riders Press. We are thrilled and honored to have him teaching again at The DAVE School. Angel Gonzalez Gaming Dean Angel comes with over 10 years experience in the gaming industry. He is a 2003 graduate of The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School. Game titles Angel worked on while a game developer at Terminal Reality included Ghostbusters, Star Wars Kinect, and Walking Dead: Survival Instinct. Michael Keith Director of Career Services Michael was born in California and has lived all over the United States as well as in Germany and Central America. As an engineering -- Page 22 of 56 --

23 technician at TriQuint Semiconductor in Orlando, Michael developed a strong interest in independent filmmaking, producing several short films, one of which won an award in a local film festival. In 2008 Michael s love of film led him to The DAVE School where he completed the program, and, immediately after graduation, accepted a position with Worldwide FX. There Michael worked as a visual effects compositor on Sylvester Stallone s The Expendables. Michael holds an Electronics Engineering Associates in Science with honors from ITT Technical Institute, and a diploma in Digital Animation & Visual Effects from The DAVE School, where he now helps other grads find industry jobs. Saham Ali Director of Information Technology Saham has been a key player in the field of VFX and Animation since A Florida native and admitted technophile since the age of 8 when he dismantled his cousin s IBM 8086, Saham realized early on that a computer could do so much more than play games. His first 3D experience was at the age of 10 when he acquired an Amiga 2000, and he hasn t stopped since. As the Chief Technology Officer for Red Earth VFX, his work can be seen on many TV productions including Outsourced, Hawaii 5-0, Undercovers, Gerry Anderson's The New Adventures of Captain Scarlet, The Return of Pink 5, Star Trek: New Voyages, A Christmas Village, and Red Tails for Lucasfilm. Eventually given the opportunity by the Economic Development Department of New Mexico to provide digital media services by experimenting with their HPC, Encanto, Saham prides himself on knowing the inner workings of the technology behind CG. A proud DAVE School grad, Saham loves the creative environment that the school fosters, allowing students to explore and create what they want without being hampered by technology. Saham graduated from The DAVE School in His goal is to continue to make DAVE a technological Garden of Eden by leveraging up-and-coming technologies to achieve things that were not possible before. His in depth knowledge of IT systems, Animation and VFX is indispensable to The DAVE School. Samira "Samy" Zacharias Director of Admissions Originally from Brazil where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Universidade Paulista in Campinas, Sao Paulo, Samy joined the -- Page 23 of 56 --

24 DAVE School admissions department with over 5 years experience enrolling students at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. She was a lead admissions representative at the Orlando, Florida campus before relocating to the Sacramento, California campus where she was Director of Admissions. Samy honed her marketing skills while owning and operating a successful ladies clothing store in Orlando for over 7 years. She is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Taylor Rivera Student Housing Director A native of New York, Taylor relocated to Florida in She has been Housing Director since June 2012 and is responsible for the overall management of student housing. Taylor has vast experience in administration, sales, and property management, and is dedicated to helping students make a smooth transition into their home away from home. Her goal is to make your residency in student housing a positive experience. Visual Effects Production and Game Production Faculty Roger Borelli Roger has over 27 years of experience as a Makeup Effects Artist and 3D Modeler/Texture Artist in the entertainment industry. He has worked on films including Army of Darkness, The Nutty Professor, Men in Black, Star Trek: Nemesis, Chicken Little, Meet the Robinsons, Astro-Boy, as well as on TV shows such as Max Steel, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, and DreamWorks Dragons: Riders of Berk. Tom Bremer Occupational Associates Degree - Digital Animation & Visual Effects - The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School, FL Tom has over 9 years of experience as a visual effects artist. In 2010 Tom received a Prime Time Emmy Award for Outstanding Visual Effects for his work on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. He has also worked on films including The Hunger Games and The Amazing Spider-Man. -- Page 24 of 56 --

25 Jeff Cavitt Occupational Associates Degree - Digital Animation & Visual Effects - The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School, FL Jeff has over 10 years of experience as a 3D artist. After working on a number of projects following graduation, Jeff next established himself as an environment artist at Terminal Reality, where he worked on AMC s The Walking Dead for PlayStation, Kinect: Star Wars, and Ghostbusters: The Video Game, to name a few. Dan Greenfield Associate - Full Sail University, FL - Computer Animation Dan started his career as a graphic designer, before attending Full Sail University. Following graduation, he was a mentor and teacher of 3D fundamentals at Full Sail. Most recently he was a 2D/3D graphic artist and weapons specialist at Cole Engineering Services, Inc. Mike Jagodzinski Mike has over 5 years of professional experience as a 3D artist. He specializes in all aspects of hard-surface objects and organic modeling, including a mastery of rendering and sculpting techniques. He is the author/instructor of the Getting Started with Mari tutorial series, as well as an ongoing member of The Foundry s beta testing teams. Aaron Juntunen Diploma - The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School, FL - Digital Animation & Visual Effects Aaron started his career in Hollywood where he worked at studios such as Shade VFX, Amalgamated Pixels, and Rhythm and Hues, as primarily a character animator. Also while in LA he worked on a wide variety of projects including commercials, special venue shows, TV shows, and movies. Later Aaron moved to Beijing, China where he made the transition from VFX animation to video game animation. There he became animation director for Mindwalk Studios and worked on titles such as Dead Space 2, Dead Space 3, Family Guy Online, Sims 4, and Elder Scrolls Online. -- Page 25 of 56 --

26 Matt Killian Bachelor of Fine Arts - Ringling College of Art and Design, FL After completing an IPAX Animation Internship at Sony Pictures Imageworks, Matt worked there on Green Lantern as an animator of full CG characters ranging from hyper-realistic, to exaggerated physical motion. He was also worked on 21 Jump Street, where was responsible for all in-house animation, and was deeply involved in the development of a project titled The Legend of Tembo. Alexander Llanos Occupational Associates Degree - Digital Animation & Visual Effects - The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School, FL Associates in Theater and Entertainment Technology - Valencia College, FL Alexander has over 6 years of experience in print media and visual effects. While at Worldwide FX he worked on The Mechanic and The Expendables as a modeler, animator, and texturer. Alex was also a 3D artist on CW s TV series Supernatural and Fox s science fiction show Fringe. Daniel Smith Associate - Art Institute of Pittsburgh, PA - Visual Communication Daniel has over twenty years experience in the visual effects and animation industry. He has worked on a variety of feature films, TV, and commercials, including Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Action Man, Spy Kids 3D, M&M Chocolate Candies, Mountain Dew, Ford Fusion, The PJs, MTV Video Mods, and NHL Networks to name a few. Daniel is also a Nuke Certified Trainer, through The Foundry. Anthony Solitario Diploma - Digital Animation & Visual Effects - The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School, FL Anthony has extensive knowledge of a variety of industry software including Maya, Zbrush, 3D Studio Max, and Unreal Engine. Because of this, Anthony is an ideal Associate Instructor, who can assist in all aspects of either program. -- Page 26 of 56 --

27 Program Tuition Program Clock Hours Weeks Tuition Visual Effects Production $33,500* Game Production $33,500* A $25 non-refundable fee is due upon applying for admission. There are no additional costs or supplies required for the completion of the program. Each student has access to a computer graphics workstation for his or her own exclusive use during class hours and any required textbooks are loaned to students during that block. *Tuition is subject to change. However, the tuition on the Enrollment Contract signed by the student and the school is binding. Payment Schedule In order to guarantee a seat in any given start, students are required to pay tuition in full by the tuition due date, approximately 4 weeks before the beginning of class. Likewise, any student receiving tuition financing must have all loan documentation completed and/or approved by the tuition due date in order to guarantee a seat. After the Tuition due date, all open seats are awarded on a first-funded basis. -- Page 27 of 56 --

28 Financial Information Financing Please contact the school to learn more about our current financing options. Should any student default on a loan or other financing option at any time, he or she will not be permitted to attend classes or take advantage of special graduate benefits until the account has been brought up to date, with all outstanding debts paid. The DAVE School is approved by the applicable State Approving Agency for Veterans Affairs and participates in many Veterans Educational Benefit programs. Veterans Educational Benefits are provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs, third party provider. Students needing additional information regarding Veterans educational benefits should contact the Certifying Official, Brad Murphy, Associate Director. Title IV loans and grants are not presently available to students enrolling in The DAVE School. Inspired Artist Scholarship The Inspired Artist Award is a full scholarship granted by The Digital Animation & Visual Effects (DAVE) School. The DAVE School offers a full scholarship, for its Visual Effects Production diploma program, to the winner of the June 2015 Inspired Artist Award contest. The scholarship recipient will be announced mid-june 2015 and will receive an award letter from The DAVE School. All contestants who enter the Inspired Artist Award contest and meet The DAVE School admissions requirements (excluding tuition requirements) published in the school catalog are automatically considered for The DAVE School Inspired Artist Award scholarship. Qualifying criteria, entry form, rules and regulations, and other information for the Inspired Artist Award scholarship is available by contacting the Associate Director. -- Page 28 of 56 --

29 The application deadline is 11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Standard Time on June 14, At the time of application, an Inspired Artist Award applicant must be: - A citizen of a country on the continent of Africa. - A high school graduate or equivalent - A national art competition award winner An Inspired Artist Award applicant must produce: - An essay of no less than 500 words and no more than 1,000 words, describing why he or she wishes to attend The DAVE School. - An original work of art expressing the applicant s passion for animation and/or visual effects. (Video and/or photographic submissions acceptable.) The winning recipient of the Inspired Artist Award will receive: - Full tuition scholarship for The DAVE School s Visual Effects Production Program (Transportation, housing, and living expenses are not included). The scholarship award is $33,500 and may be available through the EduK Educational Foundation. Inspired Artist Award recipient responsibilities: - Application and receipt of an M-1 Visa to study in the U.S. - Begin program of study no later than June Complete program of study within 150% of the program length. - Coordinate a national art competition in the U.S. in partnership with The DAVE School under the direction of the Executive Director - Coordinate an environmental green team to promote recycling at The DAVE School under the direction of the Executive Director - Coordinate a museum partnership project involving teens and adults under the direction of the Executive Director - Promote The DAVE School through various special appearances, promotional video and/or radio spots, special events, speeches, endorsements, etc., under the direction of the Executive Director. The DAVE School may use the recipient s name, photograph, likeness, and/or voice in any publicity or advertising relating to the Contest or future promotions without compensation or approval (except where prohibited by law). -- Page 29 of 56 --

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31 Cancellation and Refund Policy 1. All monies will be refunded if the student cancels within three (3) business days after signing the Enrollment Contract. 2. All monies will be refunded if a student who has not toured the facility cancels within three (3) business days after visiting the facility. 3. Cancellation after the third (3 rd ) business day, but before the first class will result in a refund of all moneys paid. 4. If an applicant never attends class (no-show) or cancels the contract prior to the class start date, all refunds due will be made within thirty (30) calendar days of the first scheduled day of class or the date of cancellation, whichever is earlier. 5. Cancellation after attendance has begun, but prior to 50% completion of the program, will result in a prorated refund computed on the number of hours completed to the total program hours. 6. For an enrolled student, the refund date will be calculated using the last date of attendance (LDA) and be paid within thirty (30) business days from the documented date of determination. 7. The date of determination is the date the student gives notice of withdrawal to the institution or the date the institution terminates the student by applying the institution s attendance, conduct or Satisfactory Academic Progress policy. 8. A student can be dismissed at the discretion of the Executive Director for unsatisfactory academic progress, nonpayment of tuition or failure to comply with rules. 9. Cancellation after completing 50% of the program length will result in no refund. Veterans Refund Policy The Refund of the unused portion of tuition, fees and other charges for veterans or eligible persons who fail to enter a course, withdraw or discontinue prior to completion will be made for all amounts paid which exceed the appropriate prorated portion of the total charges that the length of the completed portion of the course bears to the total length of the course. The proration will be determined on the ratio of the number of days or hours of instruction completed by the student to the total number of instructional days or hours remaining in the course. -- Page 31 of 56 --

32 Academic Calendars Visual Effects Production Program Start Dates START MORNING/ AFTERNOON HOURS TUITION DUE GRADUATION Jan. 6, 2014 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 6, 2013 Dec. 17, 2014 April 7, 2014 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM March 7, 2014 April 1, 2015 June 30, 2014 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM May 30, 2014 June 25, 2015 Sept. 29, 2014 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM Aug. 29, 2014 Sept. 23, 2015 Jan. 5, 2015 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 5, 2014 Dec. 16, 2015 April 6, 2015 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM March 6, 2015 March 30, 2016 June 29, 2015 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM May 29, 2015 June 22, 2016 Sept Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM Aug. 28, 2015 Sept. 21, 2016 Jan. 4, 2016 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 4, 2015 Dec. 14, 2016 April 4, 2016 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM March 4, 2016 March 29, 2017 June 27, 2016 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM May 27, 2016 June 21, 2017 Sept. 26, 2016 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM Aug. 26, 2016 Sept. 20, 2017 Jan. 2, 2017 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 2, 2016 Dec. 13, 2017 Subject to change -- Page 32 of 56 --

33 Game Production Program Start Dates START MORNING/ AFTERNOON HOURS TUITION DUE GRADUATION Jan. 6, 2014 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 6, 2013 April 1, 2015 April 7, 2014 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM March 7, 2014 June 25, 2015 June 30, 2014 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM May 30, 2014 Sept. 23, 2015 Sept. 29, 2014 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM Aug. 29, 2014 Dec. 16, 2015 Jan. 5, 2015 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 5, 2014 March 30, 2016 April 6, 2015 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM March 6, 2015 June 22, 2016 June 29, 2015 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM May 29, 2015 Sept. 21, 2016 Sept Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM Aug. 28, 2015 Dec. 14, 2016 Jan. 4, 2016 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 4, 2015 March 29, 2017 April 4, 2016 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM March 4, 2016 June 21, 2017 June 27, 2016 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM May 27, 2016 Sept. 20, 2017 Sept. 26, 2016 Morning 8:00 AM 1:00 PM Aug. 26, 2016 Dec. 13, 2017 Jan. 2, 2017 Afternoon 2:00 PM 7:00 PM Dec. 2, 2016 March 28, 2018 Subject to change -- Page 33 of 56 --

34 Hours of Operation Classes meet 5 days a week, Monday Friday. Administrative offices are open from 9:00AM 6:00PM Monday-Friday. Labs are open Saturday & Sunday from 7:00AM 1:00AM. Holidays and Program Breaks The school is closed in observance of the following holidays: Memorial Day Independence Day Labor Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Day After Thanksgiving When classes are not held due to weather, holidays, or term breaks a makeup day will be offered if needed to complete the 300 hour course. There is a natural break between Christmas and New Year s Day. Holidays are subject to change at the discretion of the school Academic Terms Term Start Registration Ends Late Registration/ Changes & Transfers Deadline Q1_2015 1/5/15 1/5/15 1/9/15 Q2_2015 4/6/15 4/6/15 4/10/15 Q3_2015 6/29/15 6/29/15 7/3/15 Q4_2015 9/28/15 9/28/15 10/2/15 Final Exams 3/27-4/ / / / Last Day 4/1/15 6/24/15 9/23/15 12/16/15 Q1_2016 1/4/16 1/4/16 1/8/16 Q2_2016 4/4/16 4/4/16 4/8/16 Q3_2016 6/27/16 6/27/16 7/1/16 Q4_2016 9/26/16 9/26/16 9/30/16 3/ /30/16 6/ /22/16 9/ /21/16 12/ /14/16 Subject to change Students may register for classes any time prior to the start date. -- Page 34 of 56 --

35 Admissions Requirements Prospective Students must furnish proof of a high school diploma or equivalent. If an applicant is under 18, he or she must provide the written consent of his or her parent or guardian. See the Graduation Requirements for more detailed information. Screening Room Applicants are not required to have any previous animation or game arts experience, but a strong desire to become a professional computer animator or game artist is necessary. Applicants should also possess basic computer and Internet usage skills. We do not have an illustration or traditional art prerequisite. While those are valuable skills that you will find useful, we believe that 3D modeling and animation is a completely unique art form. In fact, we place an equal value on experience in filmmaking, acting, theater, lighting, stagecraft, web-design, programming, painting, writing, music, sculpture, model building, crafts or just about any creative endeavor. Ultimately, we are seeking students who are creative by nature, not intimidated by computers, and driven to excellence. A Sample of Creativity is highly recommended when submitting your admission application. This could be a web page, digital photograph, film or video project, short story, scale model, song, illustration, painting, sculpture... anything! Ideally, it should be submitted in some form that we may keep, such as duplicates, pictures, CD or DVD, etc. If you have a unique situation, requiring special handling or anything unusual, give us a call and we will work with you. The DAVE School is not for everyone. Breaking into the field of animation and game art can be very tough. Jobs go vacant before they go to the under qualified. As with many things, success requires personal dedication that goes way beyond our program. It is not enough to simply attend and participate. You have to want it, and be willing to work very hard for it. You must strive to grow as a craftsman, a storyteller and an artist. Our school is an incredible resource to help you on your journey and it is still YOUR journey. -- Page 35 of 56 --