An online associate degree program in animation may provide students the necessary training required to hone their artistic abilities. In these two-year programs, students may learn how to bring characters to life through creative capacities, cultivate their personal style, and create their own animation reel. Program coursework may combine general education requirement classes alongside major-specific courses such as cinematography, computer animation, and visual effects.

Once students complete the associate-level program in animation, they may either seek entry-level employment in the animation or multimedia industry or enroll in a baccalaureate program. Graduates of the associate degree program may secure employment in software publishing, advertising, or the motion picture and video industries.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 8% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for associate-level programs in animation may combine general education requirements along with core animation courses. These courses may teach students how to develop their personal style, which may include storyboarding, concept art, stop motion, and set design. Core animation classes may include the following:

• Layout Design
• Computer Animation
• Visual Effects
• Cinematography
• 3D Animation
• Digital Animation
• Figurative Concepts

Career Options

Graduates of online associate degree programs in animation may pursue employment in motion picture and video industries, computer systems, software publishing, or advertising. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment opportunities in animation and multimedia is expected to increase by 8% from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Storyboard Artist
• Character Designer
• Visual Effects Artist
• 3D Modeler
• Compositor

Continuing Education

Individuals who complete an associate degree in animation program may opt to further their education by enrolling in a four-year bachelor’s degree program. A bachelor’s degree may introduce students to the principles of color theory, shading, lighting, and anatomy. Employers may not require potential employees to possess a degree, although many multimedia artists and animators in upper-level positions hold at least a bachelor’s degree at minimum.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook