Animation degree overview

An animation degree teaches students how to create animated content for movies, TV shows, video games, advertisements, and digital media. It combines artistic skills like drawing and storytelling with technical skills in using animation software. This degree is ideal for people who love creativity and enjoy bringing characters, environments, and stories to life through animation.

In this program, students learn the fundamentals of animation, including character design, storyboarding, and 2D or 3D animation techniques. They study how to use industry-standard tools like Maya, Blender, and Adobe After Effects to create professional-quality animations. Courses may also cover visual effects, motion graphics, and the principles of movement, giving students a strong foundation in the art and science of animation.

There are various program options available for those interested in pursuing an animation degree, each catering to different educational and career goals.

• Associate of Arts (A.A.) or Associate of Science (A.S.) in Animation: A two-year program introducing students to the basics of animation, character design, and storytelling. It’s a great starting point for entry-level roles or for transferring to a bachelor’s degree program.
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Animation: A four-year undergraduate program offering comprehensive training in 2D and 3D animation, storyboarding, and visual effects. This degree prepares students for careers in film, video games, and digital media.
• Master of Arts (M.A.) or Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Animation: A graduate program designed for advanced study in areas like animation production, motion graphics, and emerging technologies. It’s ideal for professionals aiming to specialize or lead creative teams in the animation industry.
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Animation or Digital Media: A doctoral program focusing on research and innovation in animation techniques, technologies, or storytelling. It prepares graduates for academic careers, research roles, or leadership positions in animation studios or technology companies.

An animation degree equips students with a diverse set of skills essential for creating compelling animated content across various media.

• Fundamental Animation Principles: Students learn the core principles of animation, including timing, spacing, squash and stretch, anticipation, and follow-through, which are crucial for creating lifelike and dynamic movements.
• Character Design and Development: The program teaches students how to design and develop unique characters, focusing on anatomy, expression, and personality to create relatable and engaging figures.
• Storyboarding and Visual Storytelling: Students gain skills in storyboarding, learning how to plan and visualize scenes to effectively tell a story. This includes understanding composition, shot sequencing, and narrative flow.
• 2D and 3D Animation Techniques: Students master both 2D and 3D animation techniques, using industry-standard software such as Adobe Animate, Toon Boom, Autodesk Maya, and Blender to create animations for various platforms.

An animation degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors of the media and entertainment industries. Here are some specific careers you can pursue with this degree:

• Multimedia Animator: Multimedia animators create animated sequences for films, television shows, video games, and other digital media. They use software to bring characters and scenes to life, focusing on movement, timing, and expression to tell a story visually.
• Game Designer: Game designers develop the concepts, characters, and storylines for video games. They work on gameplay mechanics, level design, and player interactions, often collaborating with animators to bring the game’s world and characters to life.
• Art Director: Art directors lead the visual development of animation projects, setting the artistic style and visual direction. They supervise a team of artists and designers, ensuring that the visual elements align with the project’s overall vision.
• Character Designer: Character designers develop the look and feel of characters for animated projects. They create detailed sketches and models that define a character’s appearance, personality, and physical attributes, ensuring they are visually compelling and suitable for animation.
• Storyboard Artist: Storyboard artists visualize scripts and create storyboards that map out the sequence of events in an animation. They work closely with directors to plan shots, angles, and transitions, helping to guide the overall narrative and visual flow of the project.
• Visual Effects (VFX) Artist: VFX artists specialize in creating digital effects for films, television, and video games. They use computer-generated imagery (CGI) to enhance live-action footage, adding elements such as explosions, weather effects, and fantastical creatures.
• 3D Modeler: 3D modelers create three-dimensional models for characters, environments, and objects used in animations and video games. They use specialized software to develop detailed and realistic models that can be animated or rendered for various media.
• Motion Graphics Designer: Motion graphics designers create animated graphics for video content, including commercials, title sequences, and digital presentations. They combine text, images, and effects to produce dynamic visuals that enhance the overall message and aesthetic.