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Academy of Art University

Did you know? Academy of Art University offers BFAs in Animation and Visual Effects, Game Development, Game Programming, Graphic Design, Illustration, Visual Development, and more. Learn more.  

Film & Animation Degrees: What Coursework is Included in a Typical Film & Animation Program?

Written by Michelle Burton. Last updated May 24, 2021.

Coursework for Film & Animation Programs

What Coursework is Included in a Typical Film & Animation Program? ACR Takes a Look.

Types of Courses for Film & Animation Programs
2D Digital Animation
3D Animation
Advanced Stop Motion Techniques
After Effects for Animators
Animation Production Workshop
Animation Scriptwriting and Storyboard
Concept and Character Design
Film History and Theory
Fundamentals of Computers and Imaging Technology
Principles of Animation
Sound Recording
Stop Motion Puppet Fundamentals

What is Film & Animation?

Film & animation involves creating film through traditional or digital means and animation using the latest computer animation technology. Some of the most popular examples of film and animation techniques can be seen in animated features such as Happy Feet Two, Paddington, The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water, The Lego Batman Movie, Beauty and the Beast, Ready Player One, and Welcome to Marwen.

What are the Types of Courses for Film & Animation Programs?

A good example of a top film & animation program is Rochester Institute of Technology’s (RIT) Film and Animation BFA. The program focuses on production, screenwriting, 2D animation, 3D animation, and stop motion animation, while exploring the artistic, technical, historical, and business aspects of the motion picture industry. The curriculum emphasizes production, with students beginning their first year working in 16mm film, digital HD video, and animation. Production work continues in every semester. Sample courses include:

  • 2D and 3D Animation
  • 2D and 3D Design
  • 2D Digital Animation
  • 3D Lighting and Rendering
  • Advanced 3D Modeling
  • Advanced Stop Motion Techniques
  • After Effects for Animators
  • Animation Production Workshop
  • Animation Scriptwriting and Storyboard
  • Business and Careers in Animation
  • Concept and Character Design
  • Drawing for Animation
  • Film History and Theory
  • Fundamentals of Computers and Imaging Technology
  • Principles of Animation
  • Sound Recording
  • Stop Motion Puppet Fundamentals

During the final year of study, film & animation students will complete a senior capstone, which might consist of a demo-reel, portfolio or other creative work. Students will also have the opportunity to complete an internship, which offers hands-on training, solid experience in the field, and the chance to make valuable contacts in the industry.

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What Can I Do With a Degree in Film & Animation?

Film & animation graduates have the same career opportunities as animators and filmmakers. Possible job titles include animator, computer animator, digital animator, 3D animator, 2D animator, environments designer, storyboard artist, storyboard supervisor, character designer, concept artist, visual effects artist, layout artist, art director, production designer, scriptwriter, producer, director, digital artist, feature, documentary filmmaker, animated filmmaker, digital filmmaker, multimedia animator, digital video editor, videographer, graphic designer, broadcast journalist, game designer, and instructor.

Some film and animation graduates may choose to work outside the entertainment industry. Graduates seeking positions outside the entertainment industry can expect to find a number of unique opportunities in numerous sectors including architecture, aerospace, engineering, medical, legal, forensics, home building and design, corporate training, and more.

Programs to Consider:

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Academy of Art University
Selected Campus Locations:
  • San Francisco & Online
Selected Programs: 
  • Animation
  • Game Development
  • Graphic Design
  • Illustration
Animation Career Review Rankings: 
  • Top 50 Nationally for Animation (#14) - 2022
  • Top 50 Nationally for Game Design (#40) - 2022
  • Top 50 Nationally for Graphic Design (#46) - 2022
  • Top 50 Nationally for Illustration (#29) - 2022
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Full Sail University
Selected Campus Locations:
  • Winter Park, FL & Online
Selected Programs: 
  • Computer Animation - Bachelor's - Online & Campus
  • Game Programs - Bachelor's & Master's - Online & Campus
  • Graphic Design & Digital Arts - Bachelor's - Online & Campus
  • Film & Digital Cinematography - Bachelor's & Master's - Online & Campus
  • Simulation & Visualization - Bachelor's - Campus
  • Game Business & Esports Bachelor’s of Science - Online & Campus
  • User Experience Bachelor's Degree – Online
Animation Career Review Rankings: 
  • Top 50 Nationally for Animation (#11) - 2022
  • Top 50 Nationally for Game Design (#10) - 2022
  • Top 50 Nationally for Graphic Design (#33) - 2022
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Southern New Hampshire University
Selected Campus Locations:
  • Online
Selected Programs: 
  • BA in Game Art & Development
  • BS in Game Programming & Development
  • BA in Graphic Design - 3D Modeling and Animation
  • BA in Graphic Design
  • BA in Graphic Design & Web Design
Animation Career Review Rankings: 
  • Top 50 Private Graphic Design Schools in the US (#38) - 2022
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Hussian College powered by CG Spectrum
Selected Campus Locations:
  • Online
Selected Programs: 
  • 2D Animation Diploma
  • 3D Animation Diploma
  • 3D Modeling Diploma
  • Concept Art Diploma
  • Digital Illustration Diploma
  • Game Design Diploma
  • Game Programming Diploma
  • VFX Compositing Diploma
  • FX Simulation Diploma

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