Online computer animation degree programs are
most commonly offered at the beginner level. Novices may find a wide
range of degrees in the field, but there are very few online options for
advanced animators looking to supplement their skills.
Overview of Online Computer Animation Courses
Aspiring computer animators will find a handful of relevant
certificate and associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs
online, but the number of these programs is relatively small. This is
because sophisticated computer animation software generally can't be
distributed online due to licensing reasons, so students need to use a
university computer lab to access the software.
Some online animation training programs are offered as one block
course. Most are designed for novice animators, and topics include
introduction to animation software programs, computer illustration and
graphics and interactive media. As with the full degree programs,
advanced online classes like this are scarce because of the technology
needed to develop cutting-edge animation.
Certificate programs generally focus on one animation program or
technique. Graduates of full degree programs may find entry-level jobs
in video game design and animated movies or may begin freelance work as
an
animator.
Course Requirements
Students need a reliable Internet connection and a CD-ROM drive to
access course information and reading material, which might be given in
CD or DVD form. Pdf file downloads might also be required. Lectures are
generally given via streaming video and students usually interact with
instructors through e-mail or phone. Professional animation software
might be required for more advanced degree programs.
List of Online Computer Animation Classes
Introduction to 2D and 3D Design Course
This is generally one of the first classes offered in animation
programs. Students learn to create 2D design and 3D modeling with basic
animation software. This class may also include the history and theory
of computer graphics. The course is imperative to
animation design because it is rooted in dimensional compositing. Students complete graphics assignments to be graded by the instructor.
Character Animation Course
In this class, students learn to create animated characters through
modeling exercises, storyboard development, artistic conceptualization
and intermediate texturing techniques. Students prepare characters for
hypothetical game or movie placement. Advanced degree levels require
substantial drawing skills for this class. The development of one
character is generally a full-course project so the final product may be
used for students' portfolios.
Program Scripting Course
Scripting is the technical aspect of computer animation, and some
programs put more emphasis on this subject than more
artistically-focused ones. Students are introduced to programming
languages and may also be taught specialized animation software
programming. Understanding scripting may give graduates an advantage in
being able to control the building blocks of computer animation.
Advanced Animation Techniques Course
Offered near the end of most animation programs, this class prepares
students to complete full professional computer animation projects.
Topics covered include texture and background development, modeling,
lighting, shading and storyboard preproduction. The course may also be
broken up into several specialized courses, especially at the graduate
level. To demonstrate skills in this subject students complete class
projects that may be included in their final portfolios.
Independent Final Project Course
Nearly always the last class offered in online computer animation
programs, this class allows students to round out the computer graphics
equivalent of a resume, the film reel. Students compile and edit
projects completed during the program with the help of the instructor.
At the master's level, programs may also require that students complete
an internship as a part of this class prior to graduation.
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