Online animation degree programs provide students with training in design, visual effects, drawing, computer technology, and graphics. Animation programs are designed for students who are artistic, creative, have strong computer skills and enjoy working with people. Available degree programs include associate, bachelor’s, master’s-level, and a certificate option.

Graduates of such programs may seek employment in digital animation, television, and in other media-related fields. Proper training and education in animation may ready students for a career as a film editor, background animation, character developer or special effects animator.

Available Degree Levels

• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete

An online certificate in animation is designed to provide students with specialized training in a particular area, such as two- or three-dimensional animation. This option may also provide students a strong foundation in animation, art, and graphics, enabling them to seek entry-level employment in the field.

An associate degree in animation is a two-year program that may earn students a more in-depth understanding of basic animation concepts and techniques. These programs are rooted in the arts, providing students with training in several areas related to animation, such as drawing, illustration, two- and three-dimensional animation, and photography. Students may also receive basic training in computer applications and web-based design, preparing them for entry-level employment in film, digital media, and website design.

An online bachelor’s degree in animation is designed for students who wish to receive training in the fundamentals of animation as well as gain additional experience in animation principles, special effects, background design, and storytelling skills. Through computer applications, software, and animation technology, programs may provide students with the skills to work in film, anime, design motion graphics, and commercials.

Master’s-level animation degree programs may provide students with more in-depth and specialized training in the field. Students may become versed in the fundamentals of animation, computer game art, visual effects, cinematography, illustration, and design. Through artistic and technical training, these programs focus on preparing students to work in a variety of settings within the visual arts.

Career Options

Animation programs are geared towards preparing individuals for a career in media-related fields, such as television, film, and video games. Students who have obtained an animation degree may have the skills to work as a team to create movies, games or visual effects, develop storyboards, and use computer applications and software to create graphics or edit animation effects. Furthermore, animators may work in more concentrated or specialized fields, such as character and scenery development or background design. Animators may opt to either draw or paint by hand, use storyboards or work with computer software.

Possible career fields include:

• Film Editor
• Background Animator
• Character Developer
• Special Effects Animator
• Storyboard Artist