| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dakota State University | Madison |
Our 2018 ranking of the top animation school program in South Dakota. For an explanation of the ranking criteria, click here.
Dakota State University (DSU) was established in 1881 as a school for teacher education in the Dakota Territory. Today, DSU serves 3,307 students enrolled in more than 35 majors and over a dozen graduate degrees and certificates across four colleges including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Information Systems, Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences, and the College of Education.
The College of Arts and Sciences offers a BS in Digital Arts and Design with a Focus in Production Animation and a IS Management: Multimedia Certificate. Students in the BS program will work with current software and video production equipment on projects that mimic real-life experiences. They will learn how to create and edit 2D and 3D characters in a digital environment, as well as digital editing and storyboarding. In the end, graduates will have the experience to work with animated digital videos at a professional level. Possible job titles include Animator, 3D Graphic Designer, Broadcast Design Artist, and TV/Film Effects Artist.
Students entering the Multimedia Certificate program will already have a solid understanding of animation, digital design, and audio production. Students will work with digital software and equipment in four courses that will help them create 2D and 3D graphics, animation, and digital audio recordings. Those who complete the program will leave with a digital portfolio and demo reels. These individuals will be prepared to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program or seek a position in animation, graphic design or broadcast/multimedia.