Experience the Future of Filmmaking
Virtual Production is reshaping how stories are told across film, TV, and interactive media—and California Community Colleges are leading the charge.
Mission Statement
The Regional Virtual Production Academy (RVPA) equips students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-evolving virtual production landscape. By connecting industry leaders, expert faculty, and learners from across California, RVPA builds a dynamic pipeline into high-demand creative technology careers.
Our Vision
We envision a future where community college students across California can access immersive, hands-on training in virtual production, positioning them for careers in film, television, gaming, and beyond. Through strategic partnerships and real-world learning, RVPA opens doors to the creative tech jobs of tomorrow.
Pathways to Careers in Virtual Production
Bay Area community colleges are now offering specialized coursework in virtual production, blending creativity, storytelling, and technical skills to prepare students for cutting-edge roles in entertainment and media.
Click below to view the certificates of achievement already availabile via the RVPA. These tables are best view via desktop.
The Virtual Production Fundamentals Certificate of Achievement (18-24 units), offered as a part of the Regional Virtual Production Academy (RVPA) collaborative, prepares students for entry-level careers in virtual production. Students will apply the skills from film production, computer graphics, digital imaging, visual effects and game engines to the virtual production process. Students may select courses from the participating colleges to complete the certificate.
3D Animation
Intro to Digital Imaging
Intro to Game Design & Development
Intro to Film Production
Intro to Visual Effects
Intro to Virtual Production
Motion Graphics
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
Video Editing
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
2D Animation
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
3D Modeling
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
Internship
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
3D Animation
3D animation involves the creation and manipulation of 3D models, cameras, and virtual assets to bring dynamic visual narratives to life. Utilizing specialized 3D modeling and animation vocabulary, professionals meticulously plan and design productions, ensuring a seamless integration of elements for compelling visual storytelling.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Intro to Digital Imaging
Digital imaging is about knowing how to use different computer programs and tools to make digital art or pictures. It’s important to organize your work, pick the right picture quality, and understand different types of picture files to make your project look its best. When combining pictures, using masks and other smart methods lets you blend them together without permanently changing anything, so you can always adjust your work later if you need to.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Intro to Game Design & Development
In Intro to Game Design & Development, students learn to think about games from a big-picture perspective, using best practices in game development to design and create games. They get hands-on experience by coming up with game ideas, making those ideas tangible through pitches and prototypes, and then presenting their ideas to others. This process helps students understand how games are made from start to finish.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Intro to Film Production
This intro film production course helps students learn how to plan, organize, and carry out the making of a short video project. They work as part of a team, where each person is responsible for their part of the project. Students also learn and use basic video production techniques and terms, helping them understand the steps and processes involved in creating a video from start to finish.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Intro to Visual Effects
Exploring real-world problem-solving through visual effects, students in Intro to Visual Effects learn to apply different techniques effectively in production environments. They also develop an understanding of the terminology and concepts of compositing, allowing them to seamlessly integrate various visual elements.
Fall 2025:
Not Available
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Intro to Virtual Production
Crafting a virtual production project from concept to completion, students in Intro to Virtual Production learn the intricacies of design and creation. They also acquire a comprehensive understanding of the terminology and concepts related to virtual production, fostering effective collaboration within their production teams.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Motion Graphics
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
In Motion Graphics, students integrate diverse elements such as audio, time-based media, and 2D animation to craft comprehensive motion graphic presentations. They showcase an understanding of the terminology, principles, and concepts inherent in animation and motion graphics. Furthermore, students exhibit proficiency in creating intricate multi-layered animations, exporting projects for versatile applications in film, broadcasting, the internet, UI/UX, animation, games, and mobile devices.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Video Editing
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
Crafting a refined project, students in Video Editing skillfully incorporate elements such as still frames, titles, credits, effects, transitions, keyframe animations, basic compositing, J and L cuts, and the blending of multiple audio sources. They showcase their proficiency in producing polished video content while demonstrating effective project management through asset and sequence organization. Additionally, students adeptly import files from diverse formats, ensuring readiness for the editing process.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
2D Animation
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
In 2D Animation, students produce sequential art aligned with the 12 principles of animation. They progress by crafting cartoons that showcase animation fundamentals, techniques, and key concepts. Additionally, students critically assess how they apply the principles of animation theory in their projects, gaining a deeper understanding of the art form.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
3D Modeling
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
Producing dynamic visual narratives, students in 3D Animation and Modeling create animations featuring 3D models, cameras, and virtual assets. They skillfully utilize 3D modeling and animation vocabulary, complemented by thoughtful planning and design for their 3D productions. This integrated approach empowers students to bring imaginative and compelling visual stories to fruition.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Internship
(Elective – Pick 1)
(Elective – Pick 1)
Students can choose between an internship, studio, or portfolio track to gain hands-on experience with virtual production techniques and industry-standard software, working on real projects with professionals. They develop skills in 3D modeling, animation, lighting, compositing, video editing, web design, and game design. The experience emphasizes teamwork, communication, meeting deadlines, and professional behavior, with a focus on innovation, problem-solving, and user-centric visual communication.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Dive into the captivating world of animation. Use cutting-edge software and techniques to breathe life into characters, objects, and environments. From 2D hand-drawn animation to 3D character rigging, this specialization hones your skills in storytelling through motion.
Scripting for Games / Intro to Blueprinting etc.
2D Animation
3D Character Animation
Motion Capture / Performance Animation
Motion Graphics
Layout and Lighting
Python
Virtual Production B
Studio Practice, Internship or Portfolio
Scripting for Games / Intro to Blueprinting etc.
Scripting for Games builds the understanding and application of systems-level thinking, game development methods, and best practices to the design and development of graphical computer-based games. Students learn game creation skills that cover game logic sequencing; artistic and technical coordination; technical requirements and limitations; and implementation of high quality and error-free versions of games.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
2D Animation
In 2D Animation, students produce sequential art aligned with the 12 principles of animation. They progress by crafting cartoons that showcase animation fundamentals, techniques, and key concepts. Additionally, students critically assess how they apply the principles of animation theory in their projects, gaining a deeper understanding of the art form.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
3D Character Animation
Apply acting principles in 3D animated scenes to create appealing personality- based performances. Implement Principles of Animation to convey story, themes, intentions, and emotions in an animation project. Develop and implement strong character silhouettes.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Motion Capture / Performance Animation
Students learn how to use applications for performance animation and acting techniques for character animation, scene construction, and storytelling. Motivation in creating movement and gesture and how this relates to believable characterization for animation is explored by creating character bios, backstories, scenes and sequences, and empathy to bring a character to life.
*Please note, Intro to 3D Animation is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
No Courses Available this semester
Fall 2024:
Motion Graphics
In Motion Graphics, students integrate diverse elements such as audio, time-based media, and 2D animation to craft comprehensive motion graphic presentations. They showcase an understanding of the terminology, principles, and concepts inherent in animation and motion graphics. Furthermore, students exhibit proficiency in creating intricate multi-layered animations, exporting projects for versatile applications in film, broadcasting, the internet, UI/UX, animation, games, and mobile devices.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Layout and Lighting
Master the principles of layout and lighting essential for digital media projects. Learn industry-standard techniques to enhance visual storytelling, create compelling compositions, and apply professional methods to your digital media work.
Fall 2025:
N/A
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Python
The course introduces Python, covering topics such as primitive and collection data types, operators, statements, loops, branching, functions, variable scoping, modules, packages, object-oriented programming, file handling, exceptions, and an overview of Graphical User Interface (GUI) programming.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Virtual Production B
Building on Virtual Production A, this course delves into advanced aspects of 3D virtual TV, stagecraft, filmmaking, and concepts tailored for the Virtual Production field. Students gain in-depth knowledge to execute complex virtual projects, exploring advanced techniques and applications in the evolving landscape of Virtual Production.
Fall 2025:
Spring2025:
Fall 2024:
Studio Practice, Internship or Portfolio
Students can choose between an internship, studio, or portfolio track to gain hands-on experience with virtual production techniques and industry-standard software, working on real projects with professionals. They develop skills in 3D modeling, animation, lighting, compositing, video editing, web design, and game design. The experience emphasizes teamwork, communication, meeting deadlines, and professional behavior, with a focus on innovation, problem-solving, and user-centric visual communication.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Become a digital sculptor and architect. In the modeling specialization, you’ll master the art of creating 3D models—whether it’s designing intricate props, realistic environments, or even fantastical creatures. Precision, attention to detail, and creativity are your tools.
Scripting for Games / Intro to Blueprinting etc.
3D Modeling
Digital Sculpting
Texturing
Python
Intermediate/Advanced 3D modeling
Rigging
Virtual Production B
Studio Practice, Internship or Portfolio
Scripting for Games / Intro to Blueprinting etc.
Scripting for Games builds the understanding and application of systems-level thinking, game development methods, and best practices to the design and development of graphical computer-based games. Students learn game creation skills that cover game logic sequencing; artistic and technical coordination; technical requirements and limitations; and implementation of high quality and error-free versions of games.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
3D Modeling
The 3D Modeling course focuses on creating short, 3D animated movies. Students explore the principles that govern animation and practice techniques to implement them in 3D, using the skills learned to create and apply textures and lighting to 3D models for the final render.
*Please note, Intro to 3D Animation is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Digital Sculpting
In this course, students are introduced to digital sculpting and its integration with traditional modeling workflows for production. They acquire the skills to craft ultra-realistic 3D models with intricate details, utilizing industry-standard software. Demonstrations, exercises, and assignments foster the development of sculpting, physics, composition, anatomy, and texture painting skills.
*Please note, 3D Modeling is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
N/A
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Texturing
In this course, students master industry techniques for elevating 3D objects, environments, and characters through 3D sculpting and painting tools. They cover texture painting, digital image manipulation, texture mapping, lighting techniques, camera controls, application of art and design principles to 3D imagery, and rendering for creative industries like video games, cinema, animations, AR, and print.
*Please note, Intro to 3D Animation 0r 3D Modeling is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Python
The course introduces Python, covering topics such as primitive and collection data types, operators, statements, loops, branching, functions, variable scoping, modules, packages, object-oriented programming, file handling, exceptions, and an overview of Graphical User Interface (GUI) programming.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Intermediate/Advanced 3D modeling
This intermediate course builds on skills developed in 3D modeling, focusing on designing and constructing digital characters and environments. Students create production-ready 3D models using organic and hard surface techniques, digital sculpting principles, and optimization for 3D game engines.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Rigging
The Rigging course readies students for the technical intricacies of developing efficient animation controls for 3D models and characters. Utilizing industry-standard software, students learn to create a comprehensive skeleton and control rig, encompassing facial features, for a 3D model. Through techniques like set-driven keys, deformers, constraints, and kinematic controls, students master the export of rigged characters and objects to game/simulation platforms, including tasks like identifying locations, placing joints, and painting weights for realistic movement.
*Please note, Intro to 3D Animation is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
N/A
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Virtual Production B
Building on Virtual Production A, this course delves into advanced aspects of 3D virtual TV, stagecraft, filmmaking, and concepts tailored for the Virtual Production field. Students gain in-depth knowledge to execute complex virtual projects, exploring advanced techniques and applications in the evolving landscape of Virtual Production.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Studio Practice, Internship or Portfolio
Students can choose between an internship, studio, or portfolio track to gain hands-on experience with virtual production techniques and industry-standard software, working on real projects with professionals. They develop skills in 3D modeling, animation, lighting, compositing, video editing, web design, and game design. The experience emphasizes teamwork, communication, meeting deadlines, and professional behavior, with a focus on innovation, problem-solving, and user-centric visual communication.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Lights, camera, action! This specialization immerses you in the world of filmmaking. Explore cinematography, set design, and post-production workflows. From framing compelling shots to editing sequences, you’ll be the visionary behind the scenes.
Scripting for Games / Intro to Blueprinting etc.
3D Modeling
Digital Sculpting
Texturing
Python
Intermediate/Advanced 3D modeling
Rigging
Virtual Production B
Studio Practice, Internship or Portfolio
Scripting for Games / Intro to Blueprinting etc.
Scripting for Games builds the understanding and application of systems-level thinking, game development methods, and best practices to the design and development of graphical computer-based games. Students learn game creation skills that cover game logic sequencing; artistic and technical coordination; technical requirements and limitations; and implementation of high quality and error-free versions of games.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
3D Modeling
The 3D Modeling course focuses on creating short, 3D animated movies. Students explore the principles that govern animation and practice techniques to implement them in 3D, using the skills learned to create and apply textures and lighting to 3D models for the final render.
*Please note, Intro to 3D Animation is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Digital Sculpting
In this course, students are introduced to digital sculpting and its integration with traditional modeling workflows for production. They acquire the skills to craft ultra-realistic 3D models with intricate details, utilizing industry-standard software. Demonstrations, exercises, and assignments foster the development of sculpting, physics, composition, anatomy, and texture painting skills.
*Please note, 3D Modeling is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
N/A
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Texturing
In this course, students master industry techniques for elevating 3D objects, environments, and characters through 3D sculpting and painting tools. They cover texture painting, digital image manipulation, texture mapping, lighting techniques, camera controls, application of art and design principles to 3D imagery, and rendering for creative industries like video games, cinema, animations, AR, and print.
*Please note, Intro to 3D Animation 0r 3D Modeling is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Python
The course introduces Python, covering topics such as primitive and collection data types, operators, statements, loops, branching, functions, variable scoping, modules, packages, object-oriented programming, file handling, exceptions, and an overview of Graphical User Interface (GUI) programming.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Intermediate/Advanced 3D modeling
This intermediate course builds on skills developed in 3D modeling, focusing on designing and constructing digital characters and environments. Students create production-ready 3D models using organic and hard surface techniques, digital sculpting principles, and optimization for 3D game engines.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Rigging
The Rigging course readies students for the technical intricacies of developing efficient animation controls for 3D models and characters. Utilizing industry-standard software, students learn to create a comprehensive skeleton and control rig, encompassing facial features, for a 3D model. Through techniques like set-driven keys, deformers, constraints, and kinematic controls, students master the export of rigged characters and objects to game/simulation platforms, including tasks like identifying locations, placing joints, and painting weights for realistic movement.
*Please note, Intro to 3D Animation is a recommended prerequisite.
Fall 2025:
N/A
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Virtual Production B
Building on Virtual Production A, this course delves into advanced aspects of 3D virtual TV, stagecraft, filmmaking, and concepts tailored for the Virtual Production field. Students gain in-depth knowledge to execute complex virtual projects, exploring advanced techniques and applications in the evolving landscape of Virtual Production.
Fall 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
Studio Practice, Internship or Portfolio
Students can choose between an internship, studio, or portfolio track to gain hands-on experience with virtual production techniques and industry-standard software, working on real projects with professionals. They develop skills in 3D modeling, animation, lighting, compositing, video editing, web design, and game design. The experience emphasizes teamwork, communication, meeting deadlines, and professional behavior, with a focus on innovation, problem-solving, and user-centric visual communication.
Fall 2025:
Summer 2025:
Spring 2025:
Fall 2024:
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