Art Degrees Online

Media Arts & Animation — Bachelor of Fine Arts
Location-based entertainment, film and video, architecture, virtual reality, broadcast television, advertising, education, gaming, medical sciences, and forensics are among the industries that benefit from the techniques of traditional and digital animation. The course of studies at The Art Institute develops students’ skills in design, illustration, compositing, 3D computer modeling, and other areas needed to enter the animation field. Students begin the media arts & animation program with a foundation in drawing, color, writing, and character design along with introductory computer applications. Under the guidance of industry-experienced faculty, students begin to learn advanced 2D and 3D animation principles as well as story development, background design, scenic layout, and special effects. In increasingly more advanced courses, students learn and become experienced with program-specific software, such as Macromedia Flash, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects, and Autodesk Maya. At the end of the program, students take a sequence of portfolio courses in which they design and execute specialized projects that form a part of their digital portfolios to showcase their conceptual and creative skills and abilities in both traditional and digital 2D and 3D techniques. All students develop a Web site in order to present this portfolio to a wide audience of potential employers upon graduation.

During their studies at The Art Institute, students are encouraged to apply for internships, participate in active student and professional organizations, enter national contests and film festivals, and attend conferences, such as SIGGRAPH, all of which enable them to become familiar with a developing industry and with the people who make the industry such a vibrant one in today’s world of communications and entertainment.

Media arts & animation graduates enter various aspects of the animation industry, specializing in fields such as computer-generated lighting, compositing and rendering, storyboarding, texturing, special effects, motion graphics, and others. In addition, the need for 2D and Flash animators continues to grow in order to support Web-based corporate communications, e-commerce, and marketing.
Total Credit Hours: 192
12 Quarters

Television, both network and cable, major corporations, commercial post-production facilities, and film production companies are among the industries that make use of skills developed by graduates of the Media Arts & Animation program. Exciting opportunities such as animation artist, special effects artist, broadcast graphics designer, and video post-production artist are at the forefront of an industry that is repackaging information in creative new ways.

The Media Arts & Animation graduate is a highly skilled and specialized visual communicator who combines artistic talent with technological know-how to create impressions in a moving-image format.

Students begin with a substantial foundation in drawing, color, design, video production, and computer applications. From this foundation, students develop advanced skills in various aspects of computer graphics and animation. Students learn to use the tools of the computer animation profession, ranging from computer operating systems to 3-D modeling and desktop video production. These tools enhance students’ flexibility and creativity, and enable them to produce an individualized digital portfolio that demonstrates their practical and technical abilities to potential employers.

Graduates will be prepared with fully focused, entry-level skills to enter this fast-paced, high-tech field.

Method of Instruction

Instructional methods at The Art Institute include lecture, demonstrations, labs, one-on-one tutorial, and periodic examinations. Except for externships and field trips, all instruction is conducted in a classroom setting.
Total Credit Hours: 192
12 Quarters.

With Regent’s Bachelor of Arts in Animation program, you will learn the art of animation using the most technologically advanced communication facilities on the East Coast. Using cutting-edge computer and design studios and the most advanced animation software, you’ll study character and graphic design, gestures, perspective and composition under industry experts.

The B.A. in Animation major provides students with an education in art, design, and technology to develop the basic skills needed to perform the standard phases of animation: conceptualization, modeling and construction, texturing, animation, digital cinematography, and post production. The program combines traditional and digital skills.

Program Eligibility

Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, including these required courses:
English, Grade 12 (ENG4U)

plus
One senior-level Visual Arts credit at the M, or Open Level
Four other Grade 12 subjects at the U or M level
Minimum 65% overall average
Applicant Selection

Eligible applicants are selected on the basis of previous academic achievement (the average of their six highest senior-level credits, including required courses), and the results of their portfolio assessment. A portfolio review fee is required with the submission.

Applicants who do not meet the admission requirements for this program will be assessed and advised individually and may be considered for other, related programs.
PROGRESSION POLICY

Academic progress in the program is based on meeting the requirements of an internal academic policy that outlines course and program grade standards, as well as pre- and co-requisites. This policy is distributed to students at the commencement of the program.

Sheridan has been granted a consent by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to offer this applied degree for a further five-year term starting December 31, 2007. Sheridan will ensure that all students admitted to the Bachelor of Applied Arts (Animation) Program during the period of consent will have the opportunity to complete the program within a reasonable time frame.

Program Total Credits: 123

The Animation program in the Media Arts Department prepares students to work in computer, traditional, stopmotion, and experimental animation. The basic principles of animation can be applied to all forms of image and object manipulation. The program gives its graduates a strong understanding of timing and motion, and a grounding in the wide variety of techniques available to the animator. Animation majors get a solid background in life drawing and traditional modes of animation, as well as 2D and 3D computer animation. Animation majors choose the area(s) on which to focus as they construct their junior and senior thesis films.
Foundation Year Credits: 33

Foundation students are eligible to select any College of Art and Design major program regardless of the Foundation sequence they attend.
FOUNDATION
Fall Credits: 16.5

Students entering the Foundation program through midyear admission (spring semester) will enroll in these courses for the spring semester, and then take their second Foundation semester during the Summer Foundation semester, May/June.
Elective Credits: 1.5 cr, 3 hrs
FNDP 111 – Drawing Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
FNDP 151 – Two-Dimensional Design Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
FNDP 161 – Three-Dimensional Design/Time Motion Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
LAAH 111 – Art History Survey I Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 101 – First-Year Writing I Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
Spring Credits: 16.5
Elective Credits: 1.5 cr

Select three courses from the following four:
FNDP 112 – Drawing Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
FNDP 152 – Two-Dimensional Design Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
FNDP 162 – Three-Dimensional Design Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
FNDP 171 – Time and Motion Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs

LAAH 112 – Art History Survey II Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 102 – First-Year Writing II Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
Sophomore Year Credits: 30
Fall Credits: 15
WRIT 251 and WRIT 252 Narrative Cinema I and II are required of all Animation majors. WRIT 252 Narrative Cinema II can be counted as a studio elective, or liberal arts course.
MAAN 201 – Introduction to Animation I Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAFL 201 – Introduction to Film I Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
WRIT 251 – Narrative Cinema I Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Select one course from the following two:
ILUS 285 – Drawing for Animators Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAAN 231 – Introduction to Computer Animation Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Select one course from the following two:
LACR 210 – Texts & Contexts: Perspectives on the Humanities Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 22X – Scientific Inquiry Foundation Track (SIFT) Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
Spring Credits: 15
WRIT 251 and WRIT 252 Narrative Cinema I and II are required of all Animation majors. WRIT 252 Narrative Cinema II can be counted as a studio elective, or liberal arts course.
MAAN 202 – Introduction to Animation II Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAFL 202 – Introduction to Film/Digital Video Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
WRIT 252 – Narrative Cinema II Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Select one course from the following two:
ILUS 285 – Drawing for Animators Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAAN 231 – Introduction to Computer Animation Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Select one course from the following two:
LACR 210 – Texts & Contexts: Perspectives on the Humanities Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 22X – Scientific Inquiry Foundation Track (SIFT) Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
Junior Year Credits: 30
Fall Credits: 15
Liberal Arts Credits: 6 cr
MAAN 301 – Junior Animation Workshop I Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAAN 325 – Storyboarding Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Select one course from the following two:
MAAN 232 – 2-D Computer Animation Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAAN 331 – 3-D Computer Animation Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Spring Credits: 15
Electives Credits: 3 cr
Liberal Arts Credits: 3 cr
MAAN 302 – Junior Animation Workshop II Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAAN 341 – Moving Art: Animation Theory and Production Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Select one course from the following two:
MAAN 232 – 2-D Computer Animation Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAAN 331 – 3-D Computer Animation Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Senior Year Credits: 30
Fall Credits: 15
Electives Credits: 6 cr
Liberal Arts Credits: 6 cr
MAAN 401 – Senior Animation Workshop I Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Spring Credits: 15
Electives Credits: 3 cr
Liberal Arts Credits: 6 cr
MAAN 402 – Senior Animation Workshop II Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
MAFL 320 – Film Forum: Selected Topics Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
Liberal Arts Distribution

Note all Liberal Arts courses are 3 credits.
Liberal Arts Electives Credits: 15 cr
WRIT 251 – Narrative Cinema I Credits: 3 cr, 6 hrs
LAAH 111 – Art History Survey I Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LAAH 112 – Art History Survey II Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 101 – First-Year Writing I Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 102 – First-Year Writing II Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 210 – Texts & Contexts: Perspectives on the Humanities Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LACR 22X – Scientific Inquiry Foundation Track (SIFT) Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LAPI 8XX – Liberal Arts Period Interpretation – Pre-20th Century Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs
LAPI 9XX – Liberal Arts Period Interpretation – 20th Century Credits: 3 cr, 3 hrs

How do I know if UArts Film/Animation program is right for me?
This animation degree program is designed for students who want to make both live action and animated films.

What is theFilm/Animation program like?
The Film/Animation bachelor’s degree is a double major combining elements from our programs in Film/Digital Video and Animation. In your junior and senior years, you’ll take sequences of studio courses from both majors—the Animation Workshop courses and Cinema Production courses. You’ll build a broad range of creative and professional skills. Film/Animation majors enjoy the same outstanding faculty and facilities as their single major Film/Digital Video and Animation counterparts.

What Animation facilities are available?
As a Film/Animation major, you will have access to excellent facilities for 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and other animation techniques, including:
• State-of-the-art 2D/3D computer animation lab
• Fully equipped digital sound studios
• 2 animation classrooms equipped with iMac workstations
• Master Series Oxberry animation stand
• Multi-format dub room

What Film facilities are available?
The cutting-edge film facilities at UArts include:
• 3 AVID digital video editing systems
• Digital imaging lab
• Specially built, acoustically isolated film shooting studio
• 2 fully equipped digital sound studios
• Multi-format dub room

Animation involves bringing artwork and characters to life with such precision that they truly seem real. Animation is part acting, part storytelling, and part visual art — it’s a mix of both electronic arts and traditional animation skills. In the Animation program, you’ll study methods to create realistic movement in 3-D digital environments, and collaborate within a team environment to gain practical experience. Graduates are prepared to seek entry-level employment such as 3-D character animator, modeler, and storyboarder.

The Animation Program curriculum explores time-based motion and form, combining traditional character animation with a more experimental, interdisciplinary approach. Students begin the program by studying shifting weight, locomotion, characterization, timing, and emotional expression through traditional drawing and filmmaking courses. They later apply their skills to a wide variety of individual and collaborative cinematic projects, including in-depth character studies, film production, interactive media, motion graphics, narrative storytelling, and video.

The program’s framework is centered on the idea of multiple iterations—designing and creating films frequently and with variety—as opposed to focusing on a single finished piece.

Students benefit from the college’s 20 undergraduate programs in architecture, design, fine arts, and the humanities, which provide an unlimited depth of resources, as well as from collaborative relationships between the Animation Program and several venerable Bay Area institutions. Faculty members are drawn from local animation studios, digital graphics firms, film studios, and advertising firms. Graduates will have completed a wide variety of projects upon graduating from CCA, with a reel of work that will help them succeed in either commercial or noncommercial venues.

Animation Program students have a dedicated lab that includes storyboard, pencil test, and MacPro digital animation stations, as well as access to all Media Arts Program facilities and equipment, including film and digital cameras for still and motion photography alike , digital and analog audio recorders, lighting equipment, and pre- and postproduction facilities equipped with industry-standard software packages.

With Regent’s Bachelor of Arts in Animation program, you will learn the art of animation using the most technologically advanced communication facilities on the East Coast. Using cutting-edge computer and design studios and the most advanced animation software, you’ll study character and graphic design, gestures, perspective and composition under industry experts.

The B.A. in Animation major provides students with an education in art, design, and technology to develop the basic skills needed to perform the standard phases of animation: conceptualization, modeling and construction, texturing, animation, digital cinematography, and post production. The program combines traditional and digital skills.

Extended Deadline:

2 March 2009

To be considered for admission to the Animation and Digital Arts program at NYU Tisch School of the Arts Asia, please follow these guidelines for the creative portfolio. Candidates must also complete the application for admission.
1. The Creative Portfolio

The creative portfolio includes a personal statement and a portfolio of projects including:
DVD
Storyboard printed 8.5 X 11 inch page
Four visuals printed two pages 8.5 X 11 inch pages

The DVD (Region 1 format only can include animations, videos of fictions or documentaries, still images, sound bites and music. The DVD can contain several pieces. The running time for each piece will not exceed 5 minutes. Please explain on the Creative Portfolio Contents Guide Sheet the table of content of the DVD and give a description for each piece. We strongly recommend including one back up tape in VHS/NTSC format only.

Create a storyboard printed on one 8.5 X 11 inch page. The storyboard illustrates the story of someone planting a flower and watching it grow. Please use only original media created by you, including drawings, photographs, texts or flat mixed media.

Create a layout of four visuals printed on two 8.5 X 11 inch pages. You are free to design the layout and organization of the visuals. Please use only original media created by you, including drawings, photographs, texts, or flat mixed media.
Personal statement

Please write an essay answering the following questions:
Why do you want to come to the MFA Animation Program?
What will you bring to the other students in the Animation Program?
What do you plan to achieve in the Animation Program?
Can you describe your personal relationship with traditional arts and with digital arts and technology?
2. The Creative Portfolio Contents Guide Sheet.

(this form is located in the “downloadable forms” section of the online application).
3. Passport-sized photograph of yourself (stapled to the Creative Portfolio Contents Guide Sheet).

During the admissions process, interviews are conducted in Singapore, New York and by phone. The animation program is also open to people with no animation background. We encourage candidates with diverse professional and educational experiences, coming from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. For example, this includes and is not limited to film makers, video artists, installation artists, print makers, painters, sculptors, architects, journalists, engineers, storytellers, biologists, physicians, ethnologists, educators, researchers, entrepreneurs, musicians, actors, dancers, computer scientists, programmers, technologists, designers, or writers.