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05/20/2025
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In a world full of screens where people can enjoy video games, movies and shows at the click of a button, animation has gained new attention. If you enjoy the world of animation, you may consider earning a degree in animation. A BA in Digital Design With an Emphasis in Animation degree merges design techniques and use of technological tools to help students learn how to create their own work and gain skills that can lead to various career opportunities.
An animation degree focuses on developing students’ talents while teaching new aspects of animation that can be used in their future career paths. This degree helps students become leaders in areas such as:
The courses in a BA in Digital Design With an Emphasis in Animation program revolve around helping students use visual messages to create an impact in their field through technology.
A few courses in this degree program include:
These courses mean students get to learn a variety of skills that are applicable to an assortment of careers. Some of these skills include:
There are many career options for those who are interested in animation.
Perhaps you have a passion for animation and already know you want to pursue a degree in animation. If not, and you want to explore degrees that are similar to animation, you may want to spend some time looking into the following options:
If you are not sure if animation is for you, but you enjoy the digital design aspects of an animation degree, you may want to consider an advertising and graphic design degree. This degree gives students the chance to enhance their design knowledge and learn concepts of advertising. Graduates from this program may pursue careers as designers, art directors, production assistants and other roles in the art and advertising world.
Another option in the digital design realm is a degree in web design. The courses in this program teach students about UX and web design. If you are interested in pursing a career as a web designer, graphic designer, web developer or creative director it may be beneficial to look into this major.
A film degree opens up options for students to explore career possibilities in video production and the movie industry. The careers available to those with this degree range from producer and director to editor or prop designer. This degree could be a good fit for individuals who are creative but do not necessarily want to spend their time working on designs.
You may be wondering how to get a degree in animation. The following steps will help set you on the path to earning your degree and starting a career in animation:
The first thing you should do is chose a school. Researching a college before you decide to go there is important. You may want to ask questions such as:
Once you have wrestled with these questions and decided on what you want in a college, it is time to apply. Each college has a different admissions process; it may be beneficial to get in touch with an advisor or counselor.
After you have been accepted, enroll in classes in your program. Before you know it, you can be learning about animation topics and on your way to graduation. Try and make the most of your classes. The more effort you put into learning and exploring new concepts, the more you will be able to gain from your experience.
Finally, complete your degree. You will need to take all the required courses and fulfill graduation requirements in order to earn your animation degree. When you complete your degree, take this as a time to celebrate. You have just earned a degree that can open up numerous job opportunities and give you an edge in the workplace.
A bachelor’s degree in animation or a bachelor's degree with an emphasis in animation is important in qualifying for many jobs as animators or designers. However, gaining other real-world experience can also help set you apart and add to your learning inside the classroom.
For animation students, internships and work experience are helpful tools in developing style and skills as an animator. They are also valuable as experience on job applications and resumes. Students can check with local animation studios, design programs and companies to find job listings or see if internships are available. It may also be useful to do some research online to explore bigger internship possibilities with companies like Disney or DreamWorks.
A big part of becoming experienced is practicing. Trying new techniques or styles can help you develop as an animator. Practice does not necessarily have to be for a class or project. In fact, it may be beneficial to spend some free time animating or using creativity to help develop your own ideas.
Inspiration is everywhere in today’s world of screens. There are many places where inspiration for animation can be found to help you grow in your field, including:
Inspiration goes hand-in-hand with collaboration. Working with other animators or artists can help you gain experience. It may be helpful to learn from a mentor or more advanced animator so that you can explore new aspects of animation.
There is no universal prerequisite that requires individuals in the field of animation to have an animation degree, but graduating from an animation program greatly increases your chances of being able to secure a job in animation. The U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics states that a majority of special effects artists and animators need a degree in computer graphics, art or a related field in order to develop the portfolio and skills required by employers.*
An animation degree provides invaluable experience to students interested in the world of animation. Students learn new skills and become more prepared to face the professional world after graduation. Employers see significance in a bachelor’s degree, making it a wise choice for those who want to pursue this field.
Explore more degree offerings from the College of Fine Arts and Production at Grand Canyon University. Click on the request Info Button at the top of your screen to start your journey at GCU and learn more about our digital design with an emphasis in animation degree program.
*Retrieved from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Special Effects Artists and Animators in May 2021
