Online programs in 3D animation can lead to
an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree. Through online training,
students explore basic drawing principles and learn to animate
characters using computer and graphic design techniques.
Online Associate of Arts in Animation Overview
In an online associate's degree in animation program, students
examine computer graphics and animation concepts used in films, special
effects and games. They learn to create characters, develop story lines
and add animation. They incorporate lighting and background to make
designs seem more lifelike. These programs are intensive to the arts,
typically beginning with introductory drawing and photography courses.
To be eligible for an online animation program on the associate's level,
students must have a high school diploma or the GED equivalent. There
are only a few of these programs available online.
On all educational levels,
3D animation
programs are available completely online or through a combination of
online and other distance learning formats, such as video conferencing.
Using Web-based educational servers, online students participate in
class discussions, turn in assignments, critique other students' work
and watch lectures and demonstrations. They also can chat online with
students and professors and share their work through virtual art
displays.
Online 3D animation programs on the associate's, bachelor's and
master's degree levels also have similar technical requirements.
Students must have access to a computer with reliable Internet access.
They typically need sound and video cards and a variety of software
programs, such as Microsoft Office, QuickTime and Adobe Photoshop,
Illustrator, Reader and Flash Player.
List of Common Online Associate-Level Animation Courses
Students completing an online associate's degree program in animation
take courses in arts, computer science and graphic design. These
programs typically take two years to complete.
Animation History Course
Students examine the history of animation, from its beginnings to
today. This includes the use of animation in film and video game design.
Storyboarding Course
This course examines the basics of using animation and photography to
create a story outline. Students use video and digital animation
techniques to turn 2D outlines into lifelike characters.
Effects Animation Course
Students learn to animate their drawings using principles of visual
effects. They study real-world motion of objects and learn to emulate it
in their work.
With an associate's degree in animation, students might pursue a
career in graphic design. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for graphic designers was
$43,180 in May 2009 (
www.bls.gov).
Online Bachelor of Art in 3D Animation Overview
Through an online Bachelor of Art in 3D Animation program, students
explore concepts in video technology, motion and business. They learn to
edit images, create Web pages and incorporate digital effects into
animated films. These programs require that students have at least a
high school diploma; students who have previously completed an
associate's degree should be able to transfer many of their credits. Of
all online degree programs in animation, those at the bachelor's level
are most common.
List of Common Online Bachelor-Level Animation Courses
Students in an online bachelor's degree program in animation take
general education courses while completing classes for their major.
Elective courses allow them to shape their degree programs to meet their
career expectations and desires. Bachelor's programs usually last four
years and might require an internship.
Foundations of Digital Animation Course
Through this introductory course, students explore methods for
turning 2D designs into 3D creations. They gain practical experience
using digital software to create a character, give it personality and
create a background story for it. They also learn skills for Web design.
Character Rigging Course
Students finish their character, then follow practical steps to
create it online. They use advanced procedures to add three dimensions
to their character and make it move based on human movement.
Digital Animation Techniques Course
This course trains individuals to use animation techniques in film or
on the Web. They learn to use effects like smoke, fire and explosions
to make a piece stand out.
With a bachelor's degree in 3D animation, students can find careers
as animators, multimedia artists and illustrators. The median annual
salary for animators and multimedia artists was $58,250 in May 2009,
while illustrators earned $44,160, according to the BLS.
Online Master of Fine Arts in Animation and Visual Effects Overview
Master's students explore concepts relevant to modern 3D animation and design. They learn about the art of
digital design
and animation by applying video and photography principles. There are
few online master's degree programs in 3D animation, but programs in
media design often cover similar concepts. Admission to a master's
program in this field requires a bachelor's degree in animation or a
related discipline.
List of Common Master-Level Courses in Animation
Master's degree programs in 3D animation, which generally take three
years to finish, cover concepts in art, design and animation. Students
might be required to complete an internship.
Creating Texture and Lighting Course
Students learn to make 3D animated objects appear real with the use
of lighting techniques and texture. Some courses of this nature focus
specifically on texture and lighting for video games.
Visual Effects Imaging Course
This course trains individuals to use Adobe Photoshop and other
imaging software. Students use these programs to create and edit 3D
images.
Character Animation Course
Through this course, students learn to develop characters for video
games. They explore ways to make characters move using traditional and
modern animation techniques.
A Master of Fine Arts in Animation can lead to advanced careers in
graphic and Web design, animation, multimedia art and illustration. The
BLS predicted that, between 2008 and 2018, job opportunities for graphic
designers would increase by 13%, while those for multimedia artists and
animators would climb 14%. Jobs for illustrators were expected to rise
by nine percent.
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