Frequently Asked Questions ...

Getting Started >>
Prerequisites >>
Classes >>
Fast Track Certificates >>
Hardware and Software >>
Useful Links >>

Getting started:

How do I start?
You begin by applying for admission to Ohlone College (visit >> the Admissions & Records web site for more information).
Once your application has been processed, you will be able to register for classes in the next available term.

Do I also have to apply for admission to the multimedia programs?
No, just sign up for the courses required for the degree or certificates you want to complete.

How much will it cost?
Because we are part of the California Community College system, our fees make us the best deal in higher education. Our fees may vary based upon your residency status. Visit >> the Admissions & Records web site for more information.

Prerequisites:

What are the prerequisites to enter the Multimedia programs?
They vary depending on the course; visit >> our courses' web page to learn more about the courses and their prerequisites.

We strongly recommend that before taking our courses, you have acquired at least basic computer user skills such as saving files, using the mouse, and copying documents from the computer to a floppy disk.

Can I waive a prerequisite for a Multimedia course?
Completing a prerequisite will help you acquire specific skills and knowledge so that you can be ready for the course.

Some prerequisites could be waived if you are familiar with the course content or if you have taken a similar course somewhere else. You need to consult the instructor (of the course that requires the prerequisite) or contact Pilar Lewis at plewis@ohlone.cc.ca.us.

Classes:

How many multimedia classes could I take per semester?
Keep in mind that multimedia is a challenging curriculum involving many creative, labor-intensive projects and assignments.
If you are a full-time student, 12 to 16 units (three to four multimedia courses) are the most you should attempt particularly in your first semester.
If you are a part-time student with a full- time job, we recommend that you take 3-8 units (one or two multimedia courses).

What classes are recommended on my first semester?
We highly recommend that you enroll in MM102A- Multimedia I
along with another course such as
MM162, or MM 105, or MM110, and/or the GA course of your choice.

How often do Multimedia classes meet?
Usually they meet once a week for 3 hours. Then, you do two or three hours of lab at your own pace and in the open lab located in HH119.

Fast Track Certificates:

How do I apply for my fast track certificate?
You can apply for a fast track certificate a few weeks before you complete all of the required courses (course grades will be entered by instructors upon completion). You can also apply after you have completed all of the courses.

Download the application form/s:
Multimedia (115k), Web Design (ii5 k), or 3D Animation and Modeling (61k) - open new window.
Submit it to the Division Office for Fine Arts, Business & Broadcasting Division (Room SC-150).
Please attach a copy of your grade report or transcripts.
Your certificate will be mailed to you.

(You must have the free Adobe Acrobat Reader program installed on your computer to view these documents. Download >> the free Adobe Acrobat Reader program).

Can I take different courses not listed in the fast track certificate and still earn that certificate?
It may be possible, but you need to get approval from Walt Birkedahl (Dean, Fine Arts, Business & Broadcasting Division) or Pilar Lewis (Associate professor, Multimedia Department).

Can I take a course at a different community college and apply it towards my fast track certificate?
It may be possible, but you need to get approval from Walt Birkedahl (Dean, Fine Arts, Business & Broadcasting Division) or Pilar Lewis (Associate professor, Multimedia Department). You may be asked to submit official transcripts as well as samples of the multimedia work developed in the course.

Hardware and software:

Do I have to buy a computer and software to enroll in the Multimedia courses?
No, while you are enrolled at Ohlone, you have access to the open lab in the Hyman Hall Technology Center. The open lab is available for student use nearly 70 hours per week, and it has all the hardware and software applications you'll need to complete your course of studies. Visit them at >>http://www.ohlone.edu/instr/instrcomplab (opens new window).

Does Ohlone College provide free copies of the multimedia software?
No, if you want to use the software at home, you have to purchase your own copy. Ohlone's bookstore sells software at educational prices, visit them at >> http://www.ohlonebookstore.com (opens new window) or contact them at (510) 659-6062.

Useful Links:

FAQ regarding the Instructional Computer Lab: http://www.ohlone.edu/instr/instrcomplab/studies_lab_faq.html (opens new window)

FAQ regarding Admissions: http://www.ohlone.cc.ca.us/org/admissions/faq.html (opens new window)