Animation studies

Those students who have passion in drawing and animation, who dream about creating cartoons and videogames, may be interested in one of the Animation programs, which are offered by several universities around the world. A Bachelors or Masters degree in Animation studies is a enormous first step towards your future career in animation and cartoon area.

What do these programs include?

These programs are mainly focused on practical part of education. Theoretical part of the program usually includes history of animation and cinema, and related disciplines, but most of the time students are taught the practical animation production and the diversity of techniques. The list of taught animation techniques usually includes the following: painting on glass, charcoal, sand, ink, 2D and 3D digital, stop-motion, pixilation, rotoscoping, visual effects and motion graphics, experimental film techniques, projection art and interdisciplinary collaborations. Besides animation techniques, students are taught the basics of animation screen production, including storyboarding, screenwriting, character design. It is expected that after getting a degree in Animation studies young professionals will have all skills to create their own cartoon.

The length of programs

Masters programs in Animation mainly last from two to three years, Bachelors programs - from three to four years. The leigh of the educational process depends on the chosen university and country - for example, the BA program from the University of Melbourne in Australia lasts three years, but the similar BA program from the University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom lasts four years. Several programs (for example, MA in Animation and Digital arts in University of Southern California) include the variety of internships and fieldworks, which will help students with their future career opportunities.

The cost of these programs also varies according to chosen university. Almost every university holding an Animation program provides several scholarship for outstanding students.

Future career

Some of the universities provide job opportunities for their graduates. The degree in the field of Animation is in high demand in game industry, filming companies - from small independent studios to big corporations like Disney or Pixar. After getting a degree, graduates can find a job in TV-series making, website building, creating videoarts, installations, cartoons, games and educational programs.

How to apply for the Animation Studies?

As the Animation Studies is a creative discipline, the admission rules for these programs are more specific than for other programs. Drawing skills are almost always required; applicants are expected to submit their CV and portfolio. As all Animation programs you can find on our website are taught in English, language fluency (a TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent certificate) is mandatory. Applicants for some programs are also expected to have excellent grades in Maths, but it is not always required. Some universities also ask for prior knowledge of fundamental digital animation concepts and techniques.

The application rules can vary according to the program you choose, the degree level, the chosen university and country, etc.