Computer Arts
Computer Arts is the focus of half of ACAS but really the phrase is just a placeholder for the concept of doing artistic things using computers and software. There is a massive industry and high demand for individuals with computer skills that can create artistic components.
Producers, special effects artists, animators, 3D modelers, graphic designers, multimedia artists, game designers, and basically anyone working with a computer in the future could benefit greatly from learning about digital media.
Working with this side of the book means there is a less strict path for you and you can pick what you want to learn immediately. To help you decide, below is a brief description of the things you will learn as well as examples of what you will create for the given subject.
Video Editing Down this path you will learn about basic video editing skills using programs like Final Cut and Adobe Premiere. Both of these programs are very similar and offer plenty of tools to make the video you want. Nearly every professional in the video production business uses one of these two programs.
Because this is a lean subject, I will post my youtube channel (https://www.youtube.com/user/tommy16p) as an example of some of the work you can create.
Special Effects Learning special effects will teach you a program called Adobe After Effects. You will learn how to create real special effects that rival your favorite movies.
Here are several examples: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OejCgXMD8Xs https://youtu.be/rcHNxEA5MxU https://youtu.be/8KQhGz7eyCE
Photoshop There is not a whole lot to teach in photoshop but there is much to create. After getting the basics under you, you are free to create and graphics you wish.
Here are some examples of what students made last year: http://i.imgur.com/1Od4bhE.png http://i.imgur.com/2hEe5Xg.png http://i.imgur.com/4PIBmIt.png
3D Modeling/Animation This is the most difficult artistic path but it is easily the most rewarding. Learn how organizations like Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios create 3D worlds. Apply this discovery to create 3D prints. Collaborate with special effects artists and programmers to make movies and video games come to life.
Here is some student work: http://i.imgur.com/L9XkGBH.png http://i.imgur.com/m6wj95B.png http://i.imgur.com/CZ6qto7.png