M.A. in Acting
The M.A. in Acting program at the Academy of Art University is an intensive and highly ...
B.F.A. in Animation & Visual Effects
San Francisco, California
INTAKE: Feb, Jun & Sep
Program Overview
The B.F.A. in Animation & Visual Effects at Academy of Art University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the art and technology of animation and visual effects. This program focuses on developing students' technical skills, artistic abilities, and creative problem-solving techniques to prepare them for careers in various media industries. The curriculum combines traditional animation techniques with cutting-edge digital technology, ensuring that graduates are proficient in both classic and modern approaches to animation and visual effects.
STEM-Designated: The B.F.A. in Animation & Visual Effects is classified as a STEM-designated program due to its emphasis on technology and computational skills. The curriculum includes courses in digital media, 3D modeling, visual effects, and computer graphics, all of which incorporate technical and analytical aspects essential to the field. This STEM designation reflects the program’s focus on integrating art with advanced technology and preparing students for roles that require strong technical expertise.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.F.A. in Animation & Visual Effects covers a broad range of topics to ensure a well-rounded education. Core courses include 2D and 3D animation, character design, visual effects, and motion graphics. Students also learn about storyboarding, digital sculpting, and compositing techniques. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through project-based assignments, enabling students to build a professional portfolio showcasing their skills in animation and visual effects. Additionally, students have opportunities to work with industry-standard software and tools, preparing them for real-world applications.
Research Focus: Research within the B.F.A. in Animation & Visual Effects program involves exploring new techniques and technologies in animation and visual effects. Students engage in projects that investigate advancements in computer graphics, motion capture, and virtual reality. The research focus aims to push the boundaries of traditional animation and visual effects, integrating emerging technologies to enhance the visual storytelling process. This research helps students stay current with industry trends and innovations.
Industry Engagement: Academy of Art University emphasizes strong industry engagement for its Animation & Visual Effects students. The program includes internships, collaborations with industry professionals, and participation in industry events and workshops. Students have opportunities to work on real-world projects and gain practical experience, which is crucial for building a professional network and understanding industry practices. The program’s connections with leading animation studios and visual effects companies provide students with valuable insights and career opportunities.
Global Perspective: The B.F.A. in Animation & Visual Effects program incorporates a global perspective by examining international animation and visual effects practices. Students study global trends in animation, explore diverse styles, and analyze the impact of different cultural approaches to visual storytelling. This global outlook prepares students to work in an international context and understand the diverse demands of the global media industry.
Location
San Francisco, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 30528
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.,0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 85.
The Academy of Art University offers a range of scholarships to international students, helping to make art and design education more accessible. Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate programs, and they can significantly ease the financial burden of tuition.
International Student Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically designed for international students who are applying for undergraduate programs. The award amount varies, and eligibility criteria may include a strong academic background, portfolio quality, and a passion for art and design.
The Spring Show Scholarship: The Spring Show is an annual event showcasing the best works from the Academy's students. This scholarship recognizes students who have participated in this event and demonstrated exceptional talent. It can be a substantial financial aid package.
Athletic Scholarship: International students with exceptional athletic skills may be eligible for athletic scholarships. The availability and amount of these scholarships depend on the student's performance and contribution to the university's sports teams.
Academic Scholarships: The Academy of Art University offers various academic scholarships based on a student's academic performance. Students who have achieved excellence in their previous studies may qualify for these scholarships.
Portfolio Scholarships: Many scholarships are awarded based on the quality of a student's portfolio. These scholarships often require students to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their artistic skills and creativity.
Alumni Scholarships: The Academy values its alumni and offers scholarships to relatives of alumni. This scholarship may be open to international students who have family members who attended the university.
It's important to note that scholarship availability and criteria may change over time.
Graduates of the B.F.A. in Animation & Visual Effects from Academy of Art University are well-prepared for a variety of roles within the animation and visual effects industries. The program’s comprehensive curriculum equips students with the skills needed to pursue diverse career paths.
Animator: Creating moving images and characters for film, television, video games, and online media. Animators use traditional and digital techniques to bring stories and characters to life.
Visual Effects (VFX) Artist: Designing and implementing visual effects for film, television, and video games. VFX artists work on creating realistic or imaginative visual elements that are integrated into live-action footage or animated sequences.
3D Modeler: Developing three-dimensional models for use in animation, video games, and virtual environments. 3D modelers create detailed and accurate representations of characters, objects, and environments.
Character Designer: Designing and developing the visual appearance and personality of characters for animation and games. Character designers create concept art and detailed models that define how characters look and move.
Storyboard Artist: Crafting visual narratives and storyboards that outline scenes and sequences for animation and film productions. Storyboard artists help to plan and visualize the flow of a project before production begins.
Compositor: Combining visual elements from different sources into a cohesive final image. Compositors work on layering and blending visual effects, backgrounds, and live-action footage to achieve the desired look.
Motion Graphics Designer: Creating animated graphics and visual effects for multimedia projects, including advertisements, music videos, and digital content. Motion graphics designers use animation to enhance visual storytelling and branding.
Technical Director: Overseeing the technical aspects of animation and visual effects production. Technical directors ensure that the technical workflow is efficient, troubleshoot problems, and implement new technologies.
Lighting Artist: Designing and implementing lighting for 3D environments and animations. Lighting artists create realistic or stylistic lighting effects that enhance the visual quality and mood of a scene.
Film and Video Editor: Editing film and video footage to create a polished final product. Editors work closely with directors and producers to ensure that the visual and narrative elements of a project are seamlessly integrated.
