Miami Dade College in Florida will inaugurate the Miami Animation and Gaming International Complex (MAGIC) at its Wolfson Campus on August 21 at 10:30 a.m. MAGIC will be the first facility of its kind at a public higher education facility in Florida and one of only a smattering nationwide. Modeled on state-of-the-art feature production studios — namely Pixar’s pipeline — MAGIC will bolster the city’s burgeoning position as a new animation and gaming industry hub and will gather enthusiasts, studio executives, software specialists, artists and others from around the world.
The Florida University System produces few if any graduates in digital modeling, virtual environments and simulations-related degrees. Miami Dade seeks to address this with the new complex, which will offer an affordable, accessible alternative comparable to pricey private schools. MAGIC will provide an Associate in Science degree in Computer Programming and Analysis with concentrations in Animation and Game Art, or Game Development and Design. The hand-on, two-year program will focus on developing skills in modeling, lighting,motion, sound and storytelling, as well as the latest technical skills required by the industry.
MAGIC will also host the MIA Animation Conference and Festival this fall. The conference tackles computer animation, gaming, vfx, motion graphics, film, Web design and visual arts while offering networking opportunities and a platform to further related educational programs. Competitions including animation and game design event Pitch-to-Industry and indie game competition Game On will be open to students, professionals and independent creators.
