A Career in Media Arts and Animation

A creative education in Media Arts and Animation begins with the development of strong foundational skills in drawing, design, color theory, character and object design, and computer graphics. You will further develop and refine your skills in traditional cell animation, development of storyboards and scripts, layout, audio for animation, digital video editing and special effects composition.

Potential animation students should familiarize themselves with software products such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects, 3D Studio Max, Maya and Combustion. Proficiency in these skills and software tools will enhance creativity and allow you to produce a professional digital portfolio of work – the most important tool you have to showcase your talents to prospective employers.

Senior Career Services Advisor Amy Young says certain skills are needed before taking the leap: "First and foremost, you must have VERY STRONG drawing skills. If you can't draw, more than likely you won't succeed in the animation field. Other things to consider are: good math skills, ability to learn software programs quickly, ability to accept criticism, and able to work well in teams."

Says Young, "Animation graduates can go into a variety of fields, including architecture, gaming, film, and forensics, to name a few." Employment opportunities can be found on the staffs of network or cable television companies, commercial post-production facilities, or interactive game design and film companies in such entry-level positions as animation artist, digital artist, special effects artist, storyboard artist, background artist or broadcast graphics designer.

Finally, Young has the following advice for high school students who are interested in a degree in Animation: "You must have a passion for animation or it will be very challenging to succeed in the industry. The animation field is very rewarding, but extremely competitive. Graduates must have an awesome portfolio in order to entice employers to hire them. Mediocre portfolios are unacceptable in this industry. If you are serious about becoming an animator, get involved in the industry NOW. Join online forums and start posting your work on them to receive feedback from your peers and professionals in the industry. Typically, local organizations offer discount membership fees for students.

Editorial provided by The Art Institute of Dallas.