The School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) at University of California (USC) houses the John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts (Hench DADA), which offers programs that allow students to explore all areas of art in motion. Examples include visual effects (VFX), real-time animation, experimental filmmaking, performance capture, visual production, character animation, motion graphics, visual storytelling, projection mapping, and installations and multimedia.
Another unique component of the programs at Hench DADA is the opportunity to explore collaborative projects with the Interactive Games Division, Thornton School of Music, the Production (live action) Division, and Kaufman School of Dance.
Specific program options for students interested in visual effects include the Hench DADA BFA in Animation + Digital Arts with a Concentration in Visual Effects, the SCA Game Art BFA with a Concentration in Visual Effects, and the SCA BFA in Cinematic Arts, Film and Television Production with VFX coursework.
Course examples across programs include Visual Effects, The World of Visual Effects, Digital Effects Animation, Live Action Integration with Visual Effects, 3D Modeling, Animation, and Visual Effects, Programming in Python, Digital Lighting and Rendering, Organic Modeling for Animation, and Production.
Students in any SCA program may add a 3D Animation Minor, which offers the opportunity to focus in a specific area such as Visual Effects, Virtual Reality, or Motion Capture. Students in all programs will complete a final project.
Graduates of the VFX Programs at the University of Southern California work for studios such as Digital Domain, Digital Idea, DreamWorks Animation, Illumination Entertainment, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Nickelodeon Animation Studios, Pixar, and Sony Pictures. Many USC alumni have founded their own independent studios.
University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Established in 1880, this private research university is the largest private sector employer in the City of Los Angeles. USC houses 23 schools and divisions, and serves a population of 49,500 students. More than 600 graduate and professional programs are offered.