What Coursework is Included in a Typical Computer Animation Program? ACR Takes a Look.
| 2D Animation |
| 3D Animation |
| Computer Animation |
| Directing for Animation |
| History of Animation |
| Life Drawing |
| Scriptwriting |
| Shading and Lighting |
| Traditional Animation |
| Visual Development |
What is Computer Animation?
Computer animation is a subdiscipline of animation and computer graphics. Also called “CGI” (computer-generated imagery or computer-generated imaging), computer animation is created using 2D or 3D computer graphics. Unlike traditional animation, which may involve creating images, objects and environments by hand, just about everything in computer animation requires the use of computers. However, the curriculum for traditional animation and computer animation degree programs is still somewhat similar.
What are the Types of Courses for Computer Animation Programs?
If you are interested in a career in computer animation, you must be creative, and tech savvy. As a computer animator, you will be required to create images using various digital methods and advanced software programs. Most of your time will be spent creating and achieving desired effects using a computer. Besides Computer Animation I-VI depending on the school, computer animation students may take courses such as:
- 2D Animation
- 3D Animation
- Animation Modeling
- Animation Theory and Techniques
- Color Theory
- Compositing
- Computer Programming
- Directing for Animation
- History of Animation
- Life Drawing
- Rendering
- Rigging
- Scriptwriting
- Shading and Lighting
- Story Development
- Traditional Animation
- Visual Development
Students will also take a number of general education courses such as English, Communications, History, and Art as well as studio classes and/or workshops. Although optional, students will likely enroll in an internship program, which will give them the opportunity to receive hands-on training at a local animation studio, gaming company, advertising firm or web design company.
What Can I Do With a Degree in Computer Animation?
Because computer animation students obtain a wide variety of skills that can prepare them for a career in multiple mediums and industries, the career options for talented animators vary. Computer animators may find work in web design, interactive media, computer drawing/illustration, architecture, computer programming, medical imaging, media production, animated films, manufacturing and production (mechanical animation), graphic design and education and training.
Although computer animators work in a number of different fields, many work in the film & video industry, gaming, television, and advertising and marketing. Possible positions include computer animator, concept artist, compositor, character designer, environments production designer, layout artist, storyboard assistant, modeler, editing assistant, scanner, character animator, rendering supervisor, and special effects artist.
Schools to Consider:
