Berkeley City College: BTS of Night of the Dodo
December 16, 2024
What is the RVPA?
The Regional Virtual Production Academy (RVPA) is a collaboration between five Bay Area community colleges—giving you access to shared resources, expert instructors, and real-world industry mentors. You’ll enroll at your home college, but take classes from any of the partner campuses, giving you more flexibility and faster paths to certificates or degrees. The best part? Every course is hands-on and for-credit, so you’ll build practical, job-ready skills that actually matter in today’s virtual production world.
Berkeley City College: What is Virtual Production?
August 11, 2024
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August 11, 2024
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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:
Our Team
Our Faculty
Our Team
Mary Clarke-Miller
Berkley City College Department Chair
With over a decade at Berkeley City College, Mary Clark-Miller has led animation and game design, pioneering a Virtual Production Academy with six Bay Area colleges. She shapes the technical artist curriculum, aligning programs with industry needs through her expertise in creative direction and Computer Graphics.
Monica Cappiello
Ohlone College Department Chair
Assistant Professor Monica Cappiello has 9+ years of educational experience, including roles as Dean of Academic Affairs and Department Director of Media, Animation, and Games. She holds a B.A. from UVA and an M.F.A. from SCAD, runs the YouTube channel Academic Phoenix, and volunteers for SIGGRAPH.
Joann Denning
Diablo Valley College Department Chair
Kevin Leeper
Diablo Valley College Faculty
Kevin Leeper, lead professor of 3D Modeling, Animation, and Game Design at Diablo Valley College, has over 20 years of teaching experience. With 30+ years in San Francisco and the Bay Area, he has worked in theater and production studios. He also designed the Cohen Alley Gate for the Tenderloin National Forest.
Sahra Bhimji
Diablo Valley College Faculty
Sahra Bhimji writes and directs narrative films, from geeky comedies to surreal psychological dramas. Sahra holds a BS from Stanford University and an MFA from San Francisco State University. Sahra is a professor in film production at DVC, where she shares her knowledge and passion for filmmaking with her students.
Ethan Wilde
Santa Rosa Junior College Faculty
Ethan, a dedicated faculty member, specializes in Game Development and Web & Mobile Development at Santa Rosa Junior College. He also serves as the Managing Principal of Braindunk for over a decade. Additionally, Ethan was an instructor at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.
Mark Garrett
Mission College Department Chair
Mark Garrett is the Department Chair of the Graphic Design and Multimedia Department at Mission College in Santa Clara, CA. With expertise in photography and web design and development, he teaches and mentors students, driving innovation and excellence in creative digital arts education.
Our Faculty
George Peterson
Berkeley City College
George Peterson, Co-Chair of the Multimedia Arts Department at BCC, excels in visual media and animation. Experienced in audio post-production, his work at Skywalker Sound includes Star Wars and The Incredibles. He has won multiple Academy Awards for Sound Editing.
Chris Platz
Berkley City College
Chris Platz is a Faculty member at BCC with 27 years in Silicon Valley. He specializes in Character Design, World Building, VR/XR, and Digital Sculpting. With 20 years of Unreal Engine experience and 17 years teaching, he began at Stanford blending art and tech. His love for sculpting, Legos, and Dungeons & Dragons keeps him young.
Rachel Mercy Simpson
Berkeley City College
Rachel Mercy Simpson, Co-Chair of the Multimedia Arts Department at BCC, is renowned for her innovative teaching methods and dedication to student equity and social justice. She has received the AACC Faculty Innovation Award for her impactful work.
Pam Stalker
Berkeley City College
Pam Stalker is an animator, illustrator, and teacher with an MFA in Experimental Animation from CalArts. She’s worked with Disney TV, ILM, and Klasky Csupo on shows like Rocko’s Modern Life and Michael Jackson’s Whatzupwitu. Pam has won an Annie Award and a CINE Golden Eagle and now teaches animation and art, sharing her passion with future creatives.
Kelly Whalen
Berkeley City College
Kelly Whalen is a documentary director, senior producer, and educator. As a former Senior Producer at KQED, she led award-winning projects and created the YouTube series If Cities Could Dance. Kelly now teaches video arts at Berkeley City College, focusing on film production and editing.
Troy Bennett
Diablo Valley College
Troy Bennett is a User Experience Designer and developer with over 9 years of teaching at Diablo Valley College, including roles as Professor of Interaction Design and Department Chair of Art Digital Media. He also has 17 years of experience at the Art Institute of Atlanta.
Matt Mclean
Diablo Valley College
Matt McLean, a Bay Area native, teaches Music Industry Studies at DVC. With a Master’s in Composition, he specializes in electronic music, audio production, and music theory, inspiring students since 2012.
Marla Leech
Laney College
Marla Leech earned her MA in Broadcast Electronic Arts from San Francisco State University in 1993. A filmmaker since 1990, she specializes in documentary film as a shooter, editor, producer, and director. Her works include “Love Makes a Family,” “Breaking the Glass,” and “Permit to Firm It!” Marla also plays bossa nova guitar and drums with the Brazilian bateria, Batala SF.
Steve Shlisky
Laney College
With nearly 40 years in television production in the San Francisco Bay Area, Steve Shlisky has worked on a range of projects from short PSA and promotional spots to long-form news stories and documentaries. He co-chairs and instructs at Laney College and teaches at San Francisco State University. Through Steve Shlisky Productions, he produces videos for non-profits and corporate clients.
Phil Hawkins
Mission College
Phil Hawkins, Head of the Digital Music Program at Mission College, specializes in MIDI and Digital Audio. With a Master’s in Percussion Performance, he directs the Mission Percussion Ensemble and teaches World Music, inspiring students with his expertise.
Nathan Oliver
Ohlone College
Nathan Oliver, Adjunct Faculty in Digital Arts and Interactive Design at Ohlone College, is dedicated to nurturing creativity and technical skills in students. He specializes in multimedia and interactive design, inspiring future digital artists.
Isabel Reichert
Ohlone College
Assistant Professor Isabel Reichert has over 15 years of teaching experience and is currently the program coordinator for Ohlone College’s Graphic Arts and Multimedia department. She has taught art, design, and critical theory at CCA, UC Santa Cruz, and the San Francisco Art Institute. Isabel also works as a graphic designer in web, print, and interactive media.
Brian Antonson
Santa Rosa Junior College
Brian Antonson, SRJC’s digital filmmaking instructor, has worked with CNN, CBS, MTV, and more. He has covered events like 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina and produced reality shows. At SRJC, he revitalized the Digital Filmmaking Program and teaches practical industry skills.
Walter ‘Clay’ Atchison
Santa Rosa Junior College
Walter ‘Clay’ Atchison is an Associate Faculty member specializing in 3D Computer Animation at SRJC. He is dedicated to advancing students’ skills in digital artistry and animation. Clay also mentors students in industry-standard practices.
Mike Starkey
Santa Rosa Junior College
Mike Starkey is an experienced educator specializing in Digital Media at SRJC. He is passionate about fostering creativity and technical skills in students.
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