Animation Schools & Online Degrees
Animation is a growing field that creates jobs in many niches within the entertainment industry and even in the business sector. Talented, well-trained animation artists can find jobs in movies and TV, online animation, game design, marketing and more. In order to qualify for the best jobs in the industry, you will need at least some form of education, whether it is an associate’s degree, an online program, a bachelor’s degree, or even a graduate degree. You can enroll in a professional or vocational school, although animation degrees aren’t always offered at these institutions. You can also find animation programs at traditional four-year undergraduate universities, online schools, graduate schools, and at art and design schools.
If you decide to enroll in an online animation program, you will be able to have the flexibility to study from home or any other place that is convenient and comfortable for you. Depending on the school, you may also be able to complete your animation degree on a fast-track schedule because you aren’t limited to the rigid calendar of a campus-based program. As long as you have the right kind of computer software on your home or office computer, then you will be able to learn skills like 2D drawing, 3D drawing, digital design and special effects without having to relocate or commute.
Associate’s degree programs give students an introduction to the basic concepts and designs of animation and digital design. If you want to compete for the top animation jobs, however, a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree will better serve you. You can find these programs at traditional colleges and universities, or you may want to enroll in a special arts and design or media arts school. These schools focus all of their resources and energy on developing cutting edge programs, cultivating relationships with professional contacts, and helping their students graduate with the skills, experience and portfolios they need to find a job in art and design. Traditional undergraduate universities may only offer one degree in animation, but through electives and concentrations, students can narrow down their focus and specialize in an area like Special FX animation, digital animation, 3D animation, video animation and more. Computer and game animation programs and electives are also available, depending on the program.
