Program Canceled.  Please check back for summer 2023 dates.  

About the program

The amazing imagery seen in today’s modern video games, 3D animated films, visual effects/live-action movies, episodic series and VR/AR experiences are all built on a single, core foundation: Digital, 3D Computer Graphics Imagery (CGI). In fact, this same set of skills is used in non-entertainment settings including medical illustration, scientific visualization, construction planning, automotive design, marketing, advertising, broadcast graphics, retail design and a host of other industries.

In this one-week, virtual summer program, participants will learn to use modern 3D creation tools and techniques to used by artists working throughout the industry today. 3D modeling, scene creation, lighting, basic compositing and rendering are just a few of the topics participants will be learning in this experience.

The program is run directly by Drexel University faculty with experience in feature film, advertising, and game engine productions, providing lesson materials and running kick-off/wrap-up sessions and two Check-in/Review sessions each day. Each day features 3 Work Sessions, with dedicated remote support, as well as a visiting guest speaker from industries including game design, digital animation, VR, and visual effects.

Program format: Scheduled to fit your time zone

As an online program available from anywhere in the country, this program is planned to run in two different day-to-day schedules to fit your time zone.

Eastern Time & Pacific Time Schedule

Computer and connectivity requirements

Working with 3D Computer Graphics and the tools to create them does require more computing power than you would find in a typical laptop or tablet device. Generally, PC laptops and desktop computers marketed for home gaming use have the necessary components and processors, as they are designed to handle the intense 3D graphics loads of modern video games. These very same features make these computers ideal for serious work in 3D CGI.

This online program will make extensive use of video conferencing and other activities that require robust internet connectivity. Most modern broadband home internet plans provided by cable providers and phone service providers run at speeds ranging from 25-100Mbps are suitable for this program. A connection capable of sustaining of 15Mbps communications up and down should be considered a minimum. We recommend using speedtest.net to measure the actual internet performance for your device in the setting you intend to use.

If you have any questions about the suitability of your computer or internet connection for this summer program, please contact the camp director by email at acelab@drexel.edu.

Registration

We welcome mature high school students, 15‑18 years old, who have completed their freshman, sophomore, or junior year of high school by July.

Apply by submitting the following items via email to acelab@drexel.edu by June 1, 2022:

• A short, 300 word maximum, essay describing Digital 3D
• Your high school unofficial transcript
• A $300 deposit must be included with your application. Acceptable forms of payment are Credit Card (use with online application only).

All applications will be reviewed upon completion and applicants will be notified on a rolling basis. Students who are not accepted into the program will receive a full refund of their $300 application deposit.

Upon acceptance, and your family will be sent additional program details and, of course, additional forms to complete. The $300 deposit will be credited towards the full tuition cost. Upon acceptance, your deposit is non‑refundable. The balance of $700 must be paid by June 15, 2022.

All items must be clearly labeled and emailed to acelab@drexel.edu

How soon will you hear from us? All applications will be reviewed as they are received, and applicants will be notified within 3 weeks from receipt. Admissions decisions are based upon academic preparation and a commitment to learn. We will e-mail an acceptance letter and an information package to you and your family with additional program information, and of course, more forms to complete. Enrollment is limited and is available on a first‑come, first‑serve basis upon review and acceptance of the application.

Contact

Drexel Department of Digital Media
acelab@drexel.edu