MVCC announces new certificate and degree programs

UTICA, N.Y. — Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) has announced several new academic programs to meet the evolving demands of both students and the regional workforce. The new degree and certificate programs will equip learners with specialized skills in high-demand fields, the college contends. The new data analytics certificate, offered through MVCC’s School of Business and Hospitality beginning with the fall 2024 semester, is a one-year program that provides the tools and techniques for using data analysis to make strategic business decisions. Through a blend of data science, mathematics, and general business knowledge, students will learn to college, organize, cleanse, and visualize data, the college says. The certificate transfers into MVCC’s business analytics degree program, offering a pathway for further academic advancement. MVCC’s new motion media associate degree, offered through the School of Art beginning with the fall 2024 semester, was added   in response to increased interest in 2D animation and motion graphics. The two-year program teaches the skills and knowledge required for 2D motion artists to communicate effectively in visual and verbal formats, solve visual problems, and create 2D motion artwork using industry software and technologies. The program prepares graduates for careers in fields including motion graphics, 2D animation, and creative direction. The School of Art will also offer a game art associate degree this fall, replacing the digital animation program originally developed in the early 2000s. Since then, software, concepts, techniques, and processes have evolved substantially. The curriculum changes reflect industry practices. This revamped program covers everything from modeling and texturing to lighting, rendering, and animation. The new courses simplify and streamline content, giving students more time to explore various topics. The program aligns with SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s interactive media and game design curriculum for those looking to continue their education. MVCC’s School of Art is also introducing a fashion design associate degree beginning in the fall of 2025. The program focuses on garment and apparel creation and will prepare students for careers in the fashion industry through the development of skills in effective visual communication and problem solving along with the utilization of industry-specific software to create fashion designs. “We are excited about these new offerings,” Lewis Kahler, MVCC’s VP for learning and academic affairs, said in a statement. “We aim for our academic programs to serve the community’s needs, and these programs are comprised of needed updates and exciting additions that grew out of student interest and industry need.” More information about all MVCC degree and certificate programs is available at www.mvcc.edu/academics.