Online baccalaureate programs in animation may provide students a solid foundation in story development, scenic layout, and background design. Through these four-year programs, students may learn how to create and design animation technology, realistic characters, and worlds. Program coursework may include both general education classes alongside core-specific coursework, such as drawing and anatomies, cinematic storytelling, and web animation.

Upon completion of these baccalaureate-level programs, students may further their education by enrolling in a master’s-level program in animation, or seek entry-level employment opportunities. Graduates of bachelor’s programs in animation may pursue a career in computer programming, advertising, public relations, video making, or the motion picture industry.

Program Overview

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

Program Coursework

Baccalaureate-level programs in animation may combine general education requirements with major-specific coursework. Program courses may teach students how to work with specific computer software programs, market their work, create a professional-quality demo reel or portfolio, and utilize storytelling principles. Core animation classes may include the following:

• Web Animation
• Computer 3D Modeling
• Digital Compositing
• Cinematic Storytelling
• Drawing and Anatomies
• Camera and Lighting Techniques
• Concept Development

Career Options

Graduates of baccalaureate-level programs in animation may find employment in the video and motion picture industry, computer programming, advertising, or public relations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities are expected to increase by 8% from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Multimedia Artist
• Animator
• Graphic Designer
• Art Director
• Computer Modeler

Continuing Education

Graduates may decide to further their education by enrolling in a master’s-level program. These master’s programs may expound upon the curriculum in a baccalaureate level program, and students may be required to complete a short animated film featuring 3D modelers. Most employers do not require candidates to have a degree, although they do look for potential employees who have a strong portfolio and the necessary technical skills.

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