Essential Information
Animators work on animated features or special effects for the film, television, and gaming industries. Some animators work on websites and may create animated shorts for a product or company.
Enrollees in certificate programs in animation acquire basic drawing and animation skills. Students in these programs focus on 2- and 3-dimensional technologies and learn to use digital design software. An associate's degree program in animation provides opportunities for students to learn computer graphics, as well as texturing and lighting for animation. Aspiring game designers and animators may be expected to complete a portfolio of their work. Students who choose to enroll in bachelor's degree programs might expand their knowledge of computer animation, editing and hand drawing. Internships and studio training may provide opportunities for hands-on learning.
Students pursuing a certificate or degree in animation should have a high school diploma or its equivalent. While SAT or ACT scores may not be required, a school may request exam scores prior to admission.
Certificate Programs in Animation
Animation certificate programs give students the opportunity to learn basic computer-based animation, which incorporates hand drawing. Students learn the history of animation and technologies used in the field. These programs also teach the differences in digital design software and which computer programs would be appropriate for use in motion pictures or on the Internet. Typical coursework may include:
- Basic drawing
- Beginning Photoshop
- History of animation
- Flash design
- Video editing
Associate of Applied Science in Animation
An associate degree program in animation teaches students basic animation, hand drawing, game art, digital video compositing, and 2-D and 3-D animation skills. Students are also taught how to create storyboards, work with video editing equipment, and use computer programs, such as Flash and Photoshop. Coursework at the associate level may include:
- Storyboards
- Lighting techniques
- Texturing techniques
- Computer graphics
Bachelor's Degree in Animation
A bachelor's degree in animation enhances a student's storytelling ability. Students learn about 3-D and stop-motion animation, and are taught how to incorporate different styles of animation to develop live action video. They also learn how to produce short animated films for the Internet, and develop a portfolio. Common coursework may include:
- History of animation
- Editing
- Figure drawing
- 3-D modeling
Popular Career Options
Graduates of certificate programs can either continue their studies or pursue apprenticeship positions with animators and graphic artists. Upon successful completion of an associate degree, graduates may find entry-level positions as animators or continue their undergraduate education. Entry-level opportunities in animation are most commonly found in the film, television and gaming industries. Graduates may pursue careers or work as assistants to:
- Animators
- Motion graphic artists
- Storyboard artists
- Game artists
- 3-D texture artists
- Layout artist
- Game designer
- Game animator
- Effects animator
Employment Outlook and Salary Info
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for multimedia artists and animators as of May 2020 was $77,700. Employment opportunities were expected to grow by 4%, as fast as the average for all occupations in the country for the decade spanning 2019-2029 (www.bls.gov).
Graduates of certificate and degree programs in animation may pursue work in a number of fields, including the gaming industry and graphic arts. In some cases, students will be able to build a portfolio or participate in a production studio internship.
