Online animation degree programs train
students to draw and digitally animate characters for movies, TV shows
and computer games. Programs are available on the associate, bachelor's
and master's levels.
Online Associate of Arts in Animation
Students working toward an associate degree in animation study basic concepts in drawing and illustration and later learn to turn 2-dimensional images into 3D animated characters. They examine lifelike movements and expressions so their animations can appear realistic, moving and acting like real people. Because these 2-year programs are intensive to the arts, students also typically take courses in photography.To be eligible for an associate degree program in animation, students must have a high school diploma or GED. Some schools also require a portfolio of artwork. There aren't many online associate programs in animation; however, more exist in related fields, including graphic and Web design.
Program Information and Requirements
On all academic levels, online programs in animation are available mostly online, with the exception of an internship component. These programs generally incorporate various distance learning formats, such as video and phone conferencing and the use of online portfolios to critique and analyze fellow students' work. Animation students usually log onto a university's Web-based application, which allows them to watch lectures that demonstrate professional tools and techniques, interact with classmates and turn in assignments.Students must have a working computer and reliable Internet access to complete an online associate degree program in animation. Computer software requirements generally include Microsoft Office Suites, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. Oftentimes, students must download Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash, and they also may need a scanner to submit completed work.
List of Common Online Associate-Level Animation Courses
In an online animation program, students complete both general education and major requirements. These distance learning programs typically are flexible, allowing students to access lectures and complete assignments whenever they have time.History of Animation Course
This course examines animation techniques used in various movies and TV shows. It also explores how these techniques have changed over time.Storyboarding and Photography Course
Students take photographs and turn them into animated images. They also begin developing the elements of a story, using characters, background and setting.Character Animation Course
Through this course, students gain practical experience making animated characters. They pay special attention to the way characters' bodies move, including the movement of their lips when they talk and their facial expressions.Career Information for Graduates
Upon completion of an online associate degree program in animation, students generally find careers as cartoon artists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for animators and multimedia artists was $58,250 in May 2009 (www.bls.gov).Online Bachelor of Arts in Animation
Online bachelor's programs in animation train students in drawing, animation and the laws of motion. They also study story and background creation, as well as special effects design, as they learn to create films, video games and Web characters using animation principles.Requirements for an online bachelor's degree program in animation generally are the same as those for an associate's program. Several schools offer online animation programs at the bachelor's level, which typically take 4-5 years to complete.
List of Common Online Bachelor's-Level Animation Courses
Typically, students completing an online bachelor's degree program in animation take both animation and general education classes. Most programs allow students to complete courses in a flexible manner, progressing from one lesson to the next on their own time.Effects Animation Course
Students taking this course begin by exploring the movement of objects in the real world. They then learn to add visual effects to digital animations.Color Techniques and Theory Course
This course trains individuals to understand colors, including how they go together and how they appear on a computer screen versus on paper. Students explore the use of color, including layering, in programs like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.Animation Techniques Course
Students gain experience creating flip books, drawing on film and using pixilation and other non-traditional ways of creating animated materials. They also learn to add color, lighting and backgrounds to their animations.Career Information for Graduates
Upon completion of a bachelor's program in animation, students are eligible for a variety of careers. In addition to jobs as cartoon artists, students might find work as Web or graphic designers, film animators or desktop publishers. In May 2009, the median annual salary for graphic designers was $43,180, and desktop publishers made a median salary of $36,470, according to the BLS.Online Master of Fine Arts in Animation
Through an online master's degree program in animation, students explore concepts in cinematography, design and story creation. They develop skills that enable them to create lifelike settings and characters. These programs often include courses in animation, photography, illustration, design and film studies. A master's degree program in animation generally takes 1-2 years to complete.To be eligible for an online graduate program in animation, student must have at least a bachelor's degree, preferably in the arts. There are few online master's programs in animation; related programs in Web or graphic design are more readily available.
No comments:
Post a Comment