phd animation usa

Animation, Video Graphics and Special Effects Graduate Programs in America

1-17 of 17 results

College of Arts, Media & Design - Northeastern University

Boston, MA •

Northeastern University •

Graduate School

Northeastern University ,

Graduate School ,

BOSTON, MA ,

College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences

Blacksburg, VA •

Virginia Tech •

Virginia Tech ,

BLACKSBURG, VA ,

Meadows School of the Arts

Dallas, TX •

Southern Methodist University •

Southern Methodist University ,

DALLAS, TX ,

School of Creative Technology - Savannah College of Art and Design

Savannah College of Art and Design •

Graduate School •

SAVANNAH, GA

School of Visual Communication - Savannah College of Art and Design

Pratt Institute

BROOKLYN, NY

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   25

The Ohio State University College of Arts and Sciences

Columbus, OH •

The Ohio State University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Graduate Student: Not a bad place, good reputation but the College is cutting funds every year. Cutting funds within sociales sciences and humanities has been a problem that the college face every year. ... Read 1 review

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The Ohio State University ,

COLUMBUS, OH ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Not a bad place, good reputation but the College is cutting funds every year. Cutting funds within sociales sciences and humanities has been a problem that the college face every year. .

Read 1 reviews.

DigiPen Institute of Technology

Redmond, WA •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: I feel like I've learned more in one year at DigiPen than I have at any other college I've attended. The faculty are extremely invested in the students success and I feel supported by the school. The program is constantly being tailored to suit industry practices so I feel like I'm being prepared for a career as best as possible. ... Read 2 reviews

REDMOND, WA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I feel like I've learned more in one year at DigiPen than I have at any other college I've attended. The faculty are extremely invested in the students success and I feel supported by the school. The... .

Read 2 reviews.

DePaul University College of Computing and Digital Media

Chicago, IL •

DePaul University •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Alum: DePaul took the online experience seriously before there was a pandemic. The online courses were well done. The coursework was challenging, but not unreasonable. I never felt like I was in a course meant to weed out students. ... Read 2 reviews

DePaul University ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says DePaul took the online experience seriously before there was a pandemic. The online courses were well done. The coursework was challenging, but not unreasonable. I never felt like I was in a course meant to weed out students. .

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College of Humanities and Social Sciences - George Mason University

Arlington, VA •

George Mason University •

George Mason University ,

ARLINGTON, VA ,

Ball State University College of Communication, Information, and Media

Muncie, IN •

Ball State University •

Ball State University ,

MUNCIE, IN ,

Pratt Institute School of Art

Brooklyn, NY •

Pratt Institute •

Pratt Institute ,

BROOKLYN, NY ,

Savannah, GA •

Savannah College of Art and Design ,

SAVANNAH, GA ,

Academy of Art University School of Animation and Visual Effects

San Francisco, CA •

Academy of Art University •

Academy of Art University ,

SAN FRANCISCO, CA ,

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California College of the Arts

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: The application process was very smooth. The admissions team gave me good advice about how to put together my portfolio. ... Read 4 reviews

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The application process was very smooth. The admissions team gave me good advice about how to put together my portfolio. .

Read 4 reviews.

Southern California Institute of Architecture

Los Angeles, CA •

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   9 reviews

Master's Student: Staff has been very friendly and helpful so far. Beautiful facility and many lectures. The office of financial aid has been very helpful. ... Read 9 reviews

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Staff has been very friendly and helpful so far. Beautiful facility and many lectures. The office of financial aid has been very helpful. .

Read 9 reviews.

Atlantic University College

Guaynabo, PR •

• • Rating 4.71 out of 5   7 reviews

Alum: I have studied my Bachelor’s degree on Digital Animation from 2018-2022. I wasn’t very clear on how I should’ve structured my classes until 2nd year, I thought it was weird but it was whatever. And this was at the time that COVID hit, so I also had to take online classes and whatnot. My overall experience was good! I loved the friends and connections I have made over there, being inspired by other student’s art and being able to understand everything well, especially for the 3D classes. The professors were nice, and some even have experience being freelancers. One thing that I will say it was bad is that they don’t teach puppet/flash animation, which is kind of standard in cartoons nowadays. And that it runs on trimesters and not semesters, there’s so much someone can learn in 5 months instead of 3. But I still enjoyed my time there, and I hope I can come back to study Graphic Design! ... Read 7 reviews

GUAYNABO, PR ,

7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I have studied my Bachelor’s degree on Digital Animation from 2018-2022. I wasn’t very clear on how I should’ve structured my classes until 2nd year, I thought it was weird but it was whatever. And... .

Read 7 reviews.

School of Animation and Motion - Savannah College of Art and Design

The de sole school of business innovation - savannah college of art and design.

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Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies  

The Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies (AFVS) at Harvard offers a graduate program in Film and Visual Studies leading to a PhD.

The Department also offers a secondary field in Film and Visual Studies for students already admitted to PhD programs in other departments in the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

The study of film at Harvard functions within the multi-disciplinary examination of audio-visual experience. From Hugo Münsterberg's pathbreaking forays into the psychological reception of moving images and Rudolf Arnheim’s seminal investigations of "visual thinking" to Paul Sachs’s incorporation of film into the academic and curatorial focus of the fine arts at Harvard and Stanley Cavell’s philosophical approaches to the medium, Harvard has sustained a distinguished tradition of engaging cinema and the cultural, visual, spatial, and philosophical questions that it raises. With their emphases on experimentation in the contemporary arts and creative collaboration among practitioners and critics, the Department of Art, Film, and Visual Studies (AFVS) and the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts provide a singular and unparalleled site for advanced research in Film and Visual Studies. The program aims to foster critical understanding of the interactions between the making of and thinking about film and video, between studio art, performance, and visual culture, and between different arts and pursuits whose objects are audio-visual entities. The Carpenter Center also supports a lively research culture, including the Film and Visual Studies Colloquium and a Film and Visual Studies Workshop for advanced doctoral students, as well as lecture series and exhibitions featuring distinguished artists, filmmakers, and scholars.

Interdisciplinary in its impetus, the program draws on and consolidates course offerings in departments throughout the Faculty of Arts and Sciences which consider film and other arts in all their various countenances and investigate the place of visual arts within a variety of contexts. Graduate students may also take advantage of the significant resources of the Harvard Film Archive (HFA), which houses a vast collection of 16mm and 35mm film prints as well as rare video materials, vintage film posters, photographs, and promotional materials. The HFA furthers the artistic and academic appreciation of moving image media within the Harvard and the New England community, offering a setting where students and faculty can interact with filmmakers and artists. In early 2003, the HFA opened a new Conservation Center that allows the HFA conservator and staff to accession new films as well as to preserve its significant collections of independent, international, and silent films.

Students and faculty in Film and Visual Studies are also eligible to apply to the Harvard Film Study Center for fellowships which are awarded annually in support of original film, video, and photographic projects. Established in 1957, the Film Study Center provides production equipment, post-production facilities, technical support, and funding for nonfiction works that interpret the world through images and sounds. Among the many important films to have been produced at the Film Study Center are John Marshall's The Hunters (1956), Robert Gardner's Forest of Bliss (1985), Irene Lusztig's Reconstruction (2001), Ross McElwee's Bright Leaves (2003), Peter Galison and Robb Moss’s Secrecy (2008), Ilisa Barbash and Lucien Castaing-Taylor's Sweetgrass (2009), Véréna Paravel and J.P. Sniadecki’s Foreign Parts (2011), Véréna Paravel and Lucien Castaing-Taylor’s Leviathan (2013) and De Humani Corporis Fabrica (2022), Stephanie Spray and Pacho Velez’s Manakamana (2014), Mati Diop’s Atlantiques (2019), Ernst Karel and Veronika

Kusumaryati’s Expedition Content (2020), and Joana Pimenta and Adirley Queirós’ Dry Ground Burning (2022).

Images:  Instructions for a Light and Sound Machine  (2005), directed by Peter Tscherkassky, from a print in the collection of the Harvard Film Archive.

• Undergraduate
• Academic Requirements
• Secondary Field in Film and Visual Studies
• Film and Visual Studies PhD Alumni:
• Graduate Program FAQs
• Courses in Art, Film, and Visual Studies -Fall 2024 (Spring 2025 COMING SOON!)

Graduate Contacts

Laura Frahm Director of Graduate Studies 

Emily Amendola Graduate Coordinator Film and Visual Studies Program (617) 495-9720 amendola [at] fas.harvard.edu  

FAQs about the Graduate Program

My native language is not english; do i have to take the an english language proficiency exam.

Adequate  command of spoken and written English  is essential to success in graduate study at Harvard. Applicants who are non-native English speakers can demonstrate English proficiency in one of three ways:

• Receiving an undergraduate degree from an academic institution where English is the primary language of instruction.*
• Earning a minimum score of 80 on the Internet based test (iBT) of the ...

When is the application deadline for admission to the Ph.D. program in Film and Visual Studies?

December 15, 2023

Where can I obtain an admissions application?

Applications are found on the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences website ( https://gsas.harvard.edu/admissions/apply ). 

Animation MFA

Striking a balance between technology and creativity, the Animation Workshop allows students to learn every phase of the filmmaking process, from scriptwriting to editing to sound design, allowing them to master a demanding craft and become master storytellers.

The UCLA Animation Workshop has been educating innovative and accomplished artists for 75 years, as the popularity and commercial impact of the medium has exploded. The Workshop is committed to excellence in defining, expanding, creating, and teaching animation. The Workshop has a “no house” style–in the spirit of “one person, one film”, every student is encouraged to set his or her own direction, exploring styles from conceptual to cartoon-y, from narrative to non-narrative, from cell to computer, from popular to experimental, and from traditional to interactive.

In the advanced Walter Lantz Digital Animation Studio, students familiarize themselves with the latest CG innovations reshaping the animation landscape. Enrollment in specific animation modules is by instructor consent, ensuring each student receives a personalized, immersive experience during their three-year MFA program. The finished film belongs to the filmmaker.

Animation at the Workshop has only two limitations: one’s imagination and exhaustion.

World-Class Faculty

Chuck Sheetz

Requirements.

Minimum six quarters graduate residence in the department; maximum 12 quarters residence. Minimum total of 72 units (18 classes) for the degree. At least five graduate numbered courses (200,400,500 Level). Minimum course load is 12 units per quarter.

Maintenance of a B average GPA.

Required Courses:

• C181A/481A: Introduction to Animation
• C181B/481B: Writing for Animation
• C181C/481C: Animation Workshop
• C481C Animation Workshop
• 484A: Visual Thinking and Organization for Animation (drawing)
• 488A: Interactive Animation
• 489A: Computer Animation for Film and Video OR
• 483A: Advanced Computer Animation Maya
• 298A: Thesis Workshop
• One live-action course in FTVDM
• 596 OR Elective

These two classes from the Cinema Media Studies Program (CMS):

• 210: Viewing and Reading Media (to be taken in the Fall of the first year)
• 209D: Animation Seminar

One of these live-action courses:

• 150: Cinematography
• 483AB: Intro to Experimental Film
• OR another approved course from the Production area (Directing)
• 152: Film and Television Sound Recording
• 188A: Real Time Animation: Puppetry Arts
• 122N: History of Animation in America
• 122J: The Disney Feature: Then and Now
• 482A: Advanced Animation (Character Animation)
• 482A: Advanced Animation (Writing for the Animated TV Series)
• 485: Legal Issues in Animation
• 488B: Advanced Animation (Layout)

This list is subject to change. Availability of courses is not guaranteed. Do not wait until your last quarter to fulfill requirements.

To graduate, an animation student will need to have finished:

• One traditional film (C481C/181C)
• One computer film (483ABC or 489ABA)
• One interactive project (488A or B)
• One thesis film (596), if needed

Film and Visual Studies

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Harvard has sustained a distinguished tradition of engaging cinema, media, and visual studies. This exciting, vital interdisciplinary program places you at the crossroads of creative and innovative fields of research.

You will experience a dialogue among the expanded field of moving image culture, visual arts, spatial studies, and media studies. You will be at the forefront of pressing research that represents the global future and can make a real difference, among scholars who are often artists and filmmakers, in a program that encourages a mix of artmaking and art-thinking.

The research pursued is at the center of the critical debates of our times. Examples of work published by alumni of the department include “Re-Vision: Moving Images Media, The Self, and Ethical Thought in the 20th Century” and “Land Cinema in the Neoliberal Age.”

Graduates of the program have secured faculty positions at prestigious institutions including Cornell University, UC Santa Cruz, Emerson College, Colgate University, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Others have gone on to start their own businesses and become artists, writers, and curators.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Film and Visual Studies and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies . 

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Film and Visual Studies .

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required as part of the application and must be between 15 to 20 pages, in 12-point font, double-spaced, with normal margins. The writing sample must be an example of critical writing (rather than creative writing) on a subject directly related to film, performance, and/or visual studies. You should not send longer papers with instructions to read an excerpt or excerpts.

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should give the admissions committee a clear sense of your individual interests and strengths. You do not need to indicate precisely what your field of specialization will be, but it is helpful to know something about your aspirations, and how Film and Visual Studies at Harvard might help in attaining these goals.

Strong language background helps to strengthen the application, and students who lack it should be aware that they will need to fill this gap before they can take the general examinations.

While the overall GPA is important, it is more important to have an average of no lower than A- in courses related to film and visual studies or related fields. In addition, if you have not majored in film studies or a related field, it is important to have sufficient background to enter the graduate program.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Not Accepted

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Film and Visual Studies

See list of Film and Visual Studies faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

Animation Schools and Becoming an Animator

Animation school teaches artistic and technical skills, but a degree isn't always necessary to enter the field.

How to Become an Animator

Getty Images

Drawing ability and visual observation skills are crucial qualities to cultivate if you intend to become an animator.

The creation of a single minute of footage for an animated TV show or movie can take weeks or even months of collaborative work by artists, directors, producers and technicians.

Animation requires patience, and anyone who intends to join the field should consider whether they would enjoy the process of making animation "so that they don't get bored with it or they don't get disenchanted with it, but they really love that process," says Maija Burnett, director of the character animation program at the California Institute of the Arts and assistant dean of its film and video school.

Here is a guide on what it means to be an animator and how to enter the animation field.

What Is an Animator?

The term animator could arguably apply to anyone who is involved with creating the imagery in a cartoon-based motion picture, and it is often used that way.

However, at major animation studios, people with animator job titles are usually responsible for deciding how cartoon characters move and what facial expressions they make. These animators work alongside storyboard artists, character designers and background artists.

What You Need to Enter the Animation Field

Animated feature films can take years to make – often longer than live-action movies. Diligence is a requirement for the animation industry, experts say, and so is the ability to compromise and accept criticism, since solo projects are rare in the field.

"When you work in animation, you get a ton of notes," says Jeanette Moreno King, president of the Animation Guild Local 839 union and supervising director of "Little Demon," an animated TV series for adults. "Everybody gets notes – even, the upper executives making decisions are getting notes, down to the PA (i.e. production assistant). So you can't get too personally attached to anything that you're working on, because your heart will get broken."

A detail-oriented disposition is a must for a future animator, experts say. Timothy G. Jones, director of the Academic Media Center at Robert Morris University in Pennsylvania – where he is also an assistant professor of media studies – says one exciting aspect of making an animated video is that a filmmaker can exert "granular and detailed control" over what happens in each frame of the video.

"That may appeal to students who may not be able to be as assertive or exercise that control on a film set with a large number of people," Jones says.

Drawing ability and visual observation skills are crucial qualities to cultivate if you intend to become an animator, experts say.

Burnett says aspiring animators should devote significant time to drawing accurate and interesting pictures based on the movements of real-life models.

"It's kind of like if you're a piano player, and you're playing the scales every day and arpeggios just to get your fingers really in shape," Burnett explains, noting that animation requires similar hand-eye coordination.

Animation Education and Training

It is possible to get a job within the animation industry without having a degree in animation or a related field if you have an impressive collection of projects, experts say.

"I personally have a master's degree, but no one cares," says Jasmine Katatikarn, the CEO and founder of the Academy of Animated Art, a virtual school that offers nondegree programs for aspiring lighting artists in the animation industry. "No one even asks me if I graduated from high school. ... Your portfolio speaks for itself."

A primary benefit of attending an exceptional animation school, experts say, is the opportunity to learn from creative classmates and talented faculty. Strong animation programs usually require students to complete and refine multiple animated videos, which can later be presented to hiring managers at animation studios.

Animation degree programs sometimes focus on a particular type of animation, such as the traditional two-dimensional, hand-drawn type or the computer-enhanced three-dimensional variety. Within the world of computer-generated imagery, or CGI, animation, there are multiple specialties, including 3D modeling, rigging and lighting.

Community college or vocational school animation programs may concentrate on the techniques necessary to do a particular job within the animation industry. Such hyper-focused programs tend to be less expensive and shorter than a more general animation education.

In contrast, degree-granting animation schools tend to offer a wide-ranging curriculum that covers key principles of storytelling within animated videos and also addresses design considerations such as the use of color. These schools usually offer classes on animation software programs and require students to participate in group projects with classmates.

The most common degrees for aspiring animators are Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Arts and Master of Fine Arts degrees. Some animation schools offer Bachelor of Science or Master of Science degrees that focus on the technical side of animation.

Prospective animation students generally need to submit samples of their artwork when they apply, and the quality of that work is a key consideration in the admissions process. Some animation programs routinely reject the majority of applicants. For instance, the Brigham Young University Center For Animation in Utah states on its website that the center typically receives 60 to 75 applications a year and usually accepts 20 to 25 of those applicants.

Here are a few examples of reputable schools that offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees in animation and whose alumni often work for major animation studios, including those operated by DreamWorks Animation, the Walt Disney Company and Warner Bros.

• California Institute of the Arts , or CalArts, was founded by the Disney family. Some of the school's most notable animation degree recipients have received Academy and Emmy Awards, and alumni have frequently been nominated for such prizes.
• Ringling College of Art and Design in Florida has trained more than 15 people who have earned Student Academy Awards, according to its website.
• Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia graduates students who are often invited to present their movies at major film festivals and get high-profile jobs at major TV channels like Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon, according to the school.

An Overview of Animation Jobs

Animation differs from other creative professions where jobs are scarce and salaries tend to be modest, according to people who have spent decades in the animation industry. Animation is a growing occupation with some lucrative employment options, a powerful labor union that lobbies for high wages and good working conditions, and influential talent agents.

The median salary reported by U.S. special effects artists and animators in May 2021 was $78,790, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which predicts that the number of jobs in this field will be 16% higher in 2030 than it was in 2020 – a growth rate that is double the average among all occupations.

Because animation is often used in advertisements, digital games, educational materials, journalism and medical imagery, demand for animators extends beyond television and movie studios, experts say.

According to Jones, many animators work as freelancers, and they often work remotely from places outside of major metropolitan areas. King notes that animators working on film and television projects are often expected to produce art extremely quickly and sometimes cope with significant stress.

For some people, the fantasy of working in animation is enticing, but the actual experience of an animation job is unsatisfying, King says. "It does take a lot of focus and attention, and it's really slow-moving, it's true, and it takes a lot of people to do it. Even people that create shows can't completely claim their show because it takes so many people to move it."

Searching for a grad school? Get our  complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

Bachelor's Degree Jobs That Pay $100K+

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MFA: Digital Animation and Interactive Media

The Digital Animation and Interactive Media track provides opportunities for students with backgrounds in animation to develop their own creative visions for multidisciplinary and collaborative activities in a research environment. In collaboration with the  Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design (ACCAD) , the definition of digital animation extends beyond the traditional through the exploration of new and emerging technologies. Real time graphics and virtual environments, performance animation, game art, responsive and interactive media and installations are some of the areas in which we expand the applications of digital animation. These investigations form new ground for the design and creation of meaningful content by the animation designer.

Students in this track are required to complete 60 credit hours of study to receive a MFA in Design. The program takes three years to complete, and only under exceptional circumstances is the track completed in less time. This includes core design courses, thesis project and writing development, and open electives in the themes of studio/lab, history/theory/criticism, and collaborative/interdisciplinary studio. Students work closely with a three-person thesis committee to develop their thesis topics and the vehicles best used for their development.

The Digital Animation and Interactive Media program leading to the Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Design is formulated for students intending to work as designers in the digital animation and interactive industries and in colleges and universities teaching animation and interaction related courses.

The curriculum philosophy is one of learning through experimentation and practice. Year One is constructed as an Exploration year, in which students choose new experiences that will enhance their current understanding of new media. Year Two is a Practice and Application year which demands continued exercising and rehearsal of new practices. Year Three results in Synthesis , in which students demonstrate a deep understanding of the craft and its context.

Example Course Plan

• Second Year

Autumn Semester

DESIGN 6200 Foundation for Grad Studies, 3 credits DESIGN 6400 Graduate Studio, 3 credits Elective, 3 credits

Spring Semester

DESIGN 6300 Exploration in Graduate Design Studies, 3 credits DESIGN 6400 Graduate Studio, 3 credits Elective, 3 credits

Program Milestone: First Year Review  (Research Orientation)

Electives, 4-6 credits 

• For Autumn and Spring semesters, students on 50% Graduate Associateship appointments must be enrolled for a minimum of 8 credits. For a 25% appointment, the minimum is 4 credits.
• Students awarded a Fellowship must enroll for a minimum of 12 credits for Autumn and Spring semester, and at least 6 credits for Summer semester.
• Internship (up to 6 credits) can fulfill Studio Elective or Interdisciplinary Elective credits depending on the nature of the work experience. This is determined by the advisor.
• Elective courses maybe taken in any order, and within Design or in other departments or centers at OSU.

DESIGN 6400 Graduate Studio, 3 credits Elective, 3 credits Elective, 3 credits 

DESIGN 6400 Graduate Studio, 3 credits AAEP 7725, 3 credits (recommended) Elective, 3 credits

Program Milestone: Second Year Review (Research Proposal & Plan)

• Elective courses maybe taken in any order, and within Design or in other departments or centers at OSU.  

DESIGN 7998 Thesis Project Development (Research Elective), 3 credits DESIGN 7999 Thesis Writing (Research Elective), 3 credits Elective, 3 credits

Thesis Defense: Project Exhibition, Oral Defense

• For Autumn and Spring semesters, students on 50% Graduate Associateship appointments must be enrolled for a minimum of 8 credits. For a 25% appointment, the minimum is 4 credits. 
• Students awarded a Fellowship must enroll for a minimum of 12 credits for Autumn and Spring semester, and at least 6 credits for Summer semester,

Curriculum Credit Distribution

Courses include: 6200, 6300, 6400, 7998, and 7999.

Courses providing hands-on experiences that advance skill applied in creative research or to understand and incorporate experimental or applied practices in any discipline.

Courses providing strong emphasis on history and analytical methods, as well as the philosophical, political, material, and context for works related to design, animation, or interactive media and specific research interests.

Courses providing opportunities to study and interact with another discipline beyond design.

For detailed information about forming Thesis Committees, the first year review and Thesis Committee Review, please see the  Department of Design Graduate Studies Handbook .

Career Prospects

• CG generalist or specialist
• Augmented Reality Designer
• Design Director/Manager
• Design Educator
• Design Researcher
• Human-Computer Interaction Designer
• Experiential Designer
• Game Designer
• Mixed Reality Designer
• Interaction Designer
• Motion Graphics Designer
• Multimedia Designer
• User Experience (UX) Designer
• User Interface (UI) Designer
• User Interface (UI) Research
• User Experience (UX) Strategist
• User Experience (UX) Researcher
• Visual Communication Designer
• Visualization Specialist
• Virtual Reality Designer

Research Gallery: Example DAIM Projects

See our Research Gallery or click the links below to view past examples of DAIM projects featured at our annual Graduate Spring Exhibition, which occurs at the Hopkins Hall Gallery. 

Once Upon a Game: Improving Motivational Factors Contributing to Aliteracy Through Arts- and Narrative-Driven, Interactive Gameplay

Simone Downie  MFA Digital Animation and Interactive Media, 2022

Self in Progress: Designing an Animated Mental Health Narrative Inspired by the Principles and Aesthetics of Surrealism

Kayla Lehman MFA Digital Animation and Interactive Media Track, 2022

SentiencE (short film)

Lakshika Udakandage

MFA Digital Animation and Interactive Media, 2017

The Expanded Animation Research + Practice program offers a creative environment for advanced artists to explore a broad spectrum of animation techniques and genres, critical theory, and animation history and contemporary practice.

XA faculty nurture each student’s ‘iconic self’– their unique, individual identity and their vision for the future. Students are encouraged to research deeply, to tell their original personal stories, create a persuasive call to action, experiment with abstract animation or immersive installations.

Our research concentrations include character, experimental and documentary animation, stop motion animation, animation for robotics, virtual humans and AI, cinematic installations, fine art animation practice, gesture movement, and science visualization.

XA is a three-year, six-semester Master of Fine Arts degree and requires a minimum of 50 units– 30 units are prescribed sequential XA courses and 20 units are selected electives from the USC School of Cinematic Arts. In addition, the MFA degree requires completion of a thesis project.

Admission is granted once a year in the fall. There are no spring admissions. Approximately 15 students are enrolled in each incoming class.

View degree requirements in the USC Catalog

Application instructions

SCA Admissions

Upon successful completion of the XA MFA program, students will have

• Advanced understanding of the principles of animation. 
• Understanding of cinematic concepts such as development, storyboarding, design, cinematic concepts,  2D or 3D animation real-time and immersive production, directing, editing, cinematography, and sound design with an emphasis in innovation and creativity.
• Broad knowledge and appreciation of international animation history and contemporary practice across the animation industry, academia, and the fine arts. 
• Development and refinement of narrative and/or abstract cinematic skills to communicate effectively, and demonstrate these skills in the execution of a creative project.
• Awareness of, and experimentation with, the evolving nature of media, organic materials, and technology, and expanding the boundaries of existing parameters.
• Specialization in one creative animation production with substantial proficiency, which is demonstrated in completion of an advanced thesis project produced as a film, VR, AR, game, installation, or other new media platform(s). Critical research to support the creative project, such as a website, research paper, documentation, or publication, is required.

voicemail: (213) 764-3332

The Master of Fine Arts degree in Animation and Digital Arts is a three-year (six semester) graduate program designed for students who have clearly identified animation and digital art as their primary interest in cinema. The program focuses on animation production, including a wide range of techniques and aesthetic approaches, from hand-drawn character animation to state-of-the-art interactive digital animation. While embracing traditional forms, the program strongly encourages innovation and experimentation, and emphasizes imagination, creativity and critical thinking. Students should graduate with a comprehensive knowledge of animation from conception through realization; an understanding of the history of the medium and its aesthetics; in-depth knowledge of computer animation software and the most important elements of digital and interactive media.

The program requires a minimum of 50 units: 36 units are in prescribed, sequential courses in the School of Cinematic Arts. The other 14 units are cinematic arts electives, 4 of which must be taken at the 500-level. A thesis is required for the MFA degree. Ongoing workshops in new technologies, traditional and digital media provide additional educational opportunities for students.

Admission is granted once a year in the fall; there are no spring admissions. Approximately 10 students will be enrolled in each incoming class. In addition to practical production, students would be notified of opportunities for extracurricular projects and internships that they may apply for. These experiences augment the work within the program and facilitate the student’s transition into the profession. Prior knowledge of fundamental digital animation concepts and techniques is recommended.

Applicants for the MFA in Animation and Digital Arts must apply online. For specific instructions, including deadline information, please visit cinema.usc.edu .

The Graduate School Two-Thirds Rule

The school requires 50 units minimum to graduate from the MFA in Animation and Digital Arts program, and two-thirds must be at the 500 level, not including 4 units of CTAN 594a Master’s Thesis   ,  CTAN 594b Master’s Thesis   .

Requirements for the MFA in Animation and Digital Arts

Year one, first semester.

• CTAN 425 Studio Careers: Story to Screen Units: 2
• CTAN 452 Introduction to 3-D Computer Animation Units: 2
• CTAN 500 Animation: The Art and the Industry Units: 2
• CTAN 519 Design Fundamentals for Animation Units: 3
• CTAN 530 Fundamentals of 2-D Animation Units: 2

Year One, Second Semester

• CNTV 530 Cinematic Ethics Units: 1
• CTAN 535 Fundamentals of 3-D Animation Units: 2
• CTAN 547 Animation Production I Units: 3
• CTWR 510 Fundamentals of Storytelling for Animation Units: 2

Year Two, First Semester

• CTAN 555 Animation Design and Production Units: 4
• CTAN 586 Animation Storyboarding Practicum Units: 2

Year Two, Second Semester

• CTAN 505 The Business of Animation Units: 2
• CTAN 522 Animation Department Seminar Units: 1
• CTAN 588 Cinematic Storytelling for Animators Units: 2
• CTAN 591 Animation Pre-Thesis Seminar Units: 2

Year Three, First Semester

• CTAN 594a Master’s Thesis Units: 2

Year Three, Second Semester

• CTAN 594b Master’s Thesis Units: 2

Total required units: 36

*A minimum total of 14 elective units must be taken.

Cinematic Arts Electives

To complete the 50 units required for the MFA in Animation and Digital Arts, students are required to take a minimum of 14 School of Cinematic Arts elective units. A minimum of four elective units must be taken at the 500-level. 

Additional Requirements

Thesis project.

In order to begin work on the thesis project, students must first successfully propose their project to a committee of MFA animation and digital arts program faculty. Their proposal is prepared during the spring semester of their second year as part of their pre-thesis class CTAN 591   .

In order to pass the pre-thesis class, the thesis proposal must be presented and approved by the thesis committee at the end of the fourth semester. Students cannot change their approved thesis project after the completion of CTAN 591   . Throughout the pre-thesis and thesis years of study, students will meet regularly with an MFA animation and digital arts faculty adviser(s) and thesis committee to develop and refine the proposal and discuss the progress of their work. The adviser(s) may be a member of the thesis committee and/or other faculty as appointed by the Chair in consultation with the pre-thesis instructor.

The proposal itself will include a written treatment and an oral presentation of the project. It will describe aesthetic issues to be explored and specific techniques to be employed in its realization. It will also include a storyboard or visualization, budget and schedule, in addition to supporting materials created by the student demonstrating his/her/their ability to pursue the project. The thesis committee will make comments and decide whether the student may go forward with his/her/their project. Upon acceptance, the student will begin work on the project, otherwise revising the proposal and meeting again with the committee.

A mid-residency review of the thesis project will take place in the first semester of the final year of study. The student must show that deadlines set in the proposal have been met and that progress consistent with the proposal has been made. The committee may, if necessary, suggest modifications to the project, which the student is then obligated to implement.

In the final year, students concentrate on their thesis projects, completing production and post-production. The student’s thesis will be presented to the committee upon completion. Thesis projects must be completed at the end of the sixth semester prior to Commencement to meet MFA graduation requirements.

Completion is defined as a fully rendered, animated piece with a completed sound track (guide mix acceptable). In the case of live action and visual effects projects, at least 70 percent of the final film must be animated. In the case of installation work, the piece must be mounted in a suitable space with all sound and animated components completed and functional. In the case of an interactive work the piece must be fully functional with completed animation, sound and interactivity.

Criteria for successful completion include: 50 percent originality, 50 percent quality of execution.

Grade Point Average Requirements

A grade point average of at least 3.0 (A = 4.0) must be maintained in all USC course work toward the master’s degree. Courses in which a grade of C- (1.7) or lower is earned will not apply toward a graduate degree. Courses below a C must be repeated.

Students must maintain satisfactory progress toward their master’s degrees at all times. The time limit to complete all requirements is three years from the first course at USC applied toward the Master of Fine Arts degree. Course work more than seven years old is invalidated and will not be applied toward the degree.

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John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts Division Website + Student Work >

At the John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts , students explore every aspect of art in motion and learn why animation has become integral to filmmaking and digital media. The Division teaches courses in all facets of animation and digital arts. These include classic character animation, visual storytelling, performance capture, visual effects, motion graphics, immersive media, experimental filmmaking, projection mapping, installations and multimedia, visual production and real-time animation. Students can explore collaborative projects with the interactive games division, production (live action) division, the Thornton School of Music, and the Kaufman School of Dance. This is a creative environment where you can hone your artistic skills and pursue your vision in this dynamic field.

Our John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts BFA and MFA program are both stem coded and fall under the STEM CIP code: 10.0304: Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects.

Animation alum and Dreamworks Storyboard Artist Describes her Journey Jiedi Chen Alumni Profile Read More

Finding a voice in Animation. Freshman who came to SCA with interest in Digital Arts finds himself drawn to another artform. Ethan Lee Student Story Read More

Animator Yoo Lee Reflects on Project Involve Yoo Lee Alumni Profile Read More

Student Stories

Mariel Jones BA in Animation and Digital Arts '23

Georgina Gonsalves Animation and Digital Arts MFA '22

Chun Chun Chang MFA Animation & Digital Arts '20

Featured Student Work

Between the two - jarrod + parker chatham, pause, play, repeat - ankita panda, rose - joe jacobs, simulacra - curry sicong tian, aura - chun chun cheng, still with you - ryan livesay, woe - qi liu, dawn of the patriarchy - teagan wells, summer dream - yuxin xu, sonar - shelby chan, sweater - zilai feng, there you are - rui huang, opal - brenda chen, limbo window - marica james, what if alvin - yuyuan chen, getty unshuttered 2019, degree programs, undergraduate, bachelor of fine arts.

The BFA program builds a solid foundation for filmmakers who choose animation as their medium.  Core classes introduce students to design fundamentals, industry standard digital tools, storyboarding and cinematic principles used in animation, character animation and performance.  All students complete a final film or project to launch their career beyond USC. 

Masters in Fine Arts

Our three-year graduate program attracts advanced students interested in furthering their animation knowledge and refining their production and motion design skills.  Students are encouraged to explore a diverse array of techniques and tools in preparation for their thesis film or project.  There are a multitude of opportunities to collaborate across SCA divisions and other schools across campus.  Our alumni’s work has garnered recognition at the Academy and has been celebrated at major international festivals.

3-D Animation

The minor in 3-D animation in cinematic arts offers an introduction to basic animation principles and history, as well as creative and skill-based instruction in 3-D computer animation. Through elective choices students may focus their studies on their specific area of interest, including visual effects, motion capture, virtual reality, modeling or character animation.

Contact Information

John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts USC School of Cinematic Arts 930 W. 34th Street - SCB 210 Los Angeles, CA 90089-2211 Daphne Sigismondi (Assistant Director) Phone: 213.740.3986 Email: [email protected] Elena Aquino - Administrative Coordinator Phone: 213.821.4396 Fax: 213.740.5869 Email: [email protected]

PhD in Animation Studies

A PhD degree in Animation Studies might be interesting for people who wish to do research and teaching in this field. Since there aren’t many PhD degree options, students need to find other areas connected with animation.

One of PhD programs related to Animation Studies is visual communication and graphic design. These PhD programs can be found in several universities and colleges related to design studies, for example, Graphic Design and Typography in Anglia Ruskin University, UK, or PhD in Design, North Carolina University, USA.

Those who wish to start research activity in Animation Studies, can also apply for computer science and design PhD programs, or get a degree in cinematography which includes animation courses.

Some of PhD programs in Graphic Design are available online, which is also a big advantage.

Requirements

Applicants for PhD programs in Animation or (more likely) related discipline usually need to hold a Masters of Fine Arts degree in a field you are interested at. A strong research proposal is always required, all universities also request recommendation letters from supervisors and scientific directors.

Future career

Besides research activity and teaching, PhD graduates in Animation Studies can start a career for government and create simulations to train pilots and foot soldiers for military engagement or gaming-style prototypes that hone leadership skills.

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LSU to Award More than 4,800 Degrees at Spring Commencement, One of the Largest Graduating Classes in History

May 15, 2024

More than 4,800 students are expected to graduate during LSU's 313th commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 17, and Saturday, May 18. 

Clear bags will not be required but are highly encouraged. All bags will be subject to a search upon entry. Doors will open for each event one hour before the start of the ceremony. There are no restrictions on the number of guests attending.

Graduates will receive a diploma inspired by the diploma awarded to students in 1899. A digital version of their diploma will be distributed on the day of their ceremony along with a diploma cover. Printed diplomas will be shipped to graduates. Every degree candidate's name will be called individually at separate ceremonies for each college held at various locations on campus. Times and locations for the diploma ceremonies are listed below: 

Friday, May 17:

College of Art & Design: 8:00 a.m. in the Maddox Fieldhouse

E. J. Ourso College of Business: 8:30 a.m. in the Maravich Assembly Center

College of the Coast & Environment: 8:30 a.m. in the Union Theater

Manship School of Mass Communication: 11:30 a.m. in the Maddox Fieldhouse

School of Veterinary Medicine: 12:00 p.m. LSU Vet Med Library, School of Veterinary Medicine (GC, MS, PhD)

College of Science: 12:30 p.m. in the Maravich Assembly Center

College of Music & Dramatic Arts: 12:30 p.m. in the Union Theater

College of Agriculture: 3:00 p.m. in the Maddox Fieldhouse

College of Engineering: 5:00 p.m. in the Maravich Assembly Center

School of Veterinary Medicine: 7:00 p.m. LSU Vet Med Library, School of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Saturday, May 18:

College of Humanities & Social Sciences: 8:30 a.m. in the Maravich Assembly Center

College of Human Sciences & Education: 12:30 p.m. in the Maravich Assembly Center

Paul M. Hebert Law Center: 4:30 p.m. in the Maravich Assembly Center.

LSU will also hold several ceremonies leading up to commencement, including the Ogden Honors College, ROTC commissioning, and Distinguished Communicators, among others. For more information, please visit  www.lsu.edu/commencement .   

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At Central Michigan University, we're all about cross-campus collaboration.  We recognize that Animation is not only a powerful art form, it's also a mash up of of creative talent, team dynamics, and practical skills, all focused on a single outcome. While Central Michigan University's Animation Program lives in the Department of Art and Design we have creative partners across the entire campus, so you can major in Animation with a minor in Game Design Thinking, you can work with Music Composition majors to score your short film.  You can even participate with Business majors and entrepreneurs to showcase your pitch for an animated series. Learn More.  

Top 10 Animation Master's (MS/MA) Programs in the U.S. – 2024 College Rankings

What are the top animation Master's (MS/MA) programs in the U.S. for 2024?

For our graduate degree rankings, we have evaluated animation schools and programs with the best Master of Arts (MA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA) and Master of Science (MS) options. To determine which degree matches your career goals, it is important to understand how each qualification differs.

The Master of Arts (MA) is an advanced degree that focuses on areas such as the humanities. MA degrees are typically available in the areas of communications, English, teaching, literature, linguistics, art, and languages. Seminars are the main method of learning for MA programs and most programs do not require a thesis.

The Master of Science (MS) degree option typically focuses on science, technology, engineering,  and math. This advanced degree often includes immersive lab work, scientific research, analysis, and evaluation. Unlike MA programs, most MS programs require a thesis.

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is academically recognized as a terminal degree and it is typically awarded in the visual, fine and performing arts. The MFA degree demands the highest level of professional competency in these areas and practicing artists must exhibit the highest level of accomplishment through the generation of a body of work.

Below are the Top 10 Schools and Colleges with Animation MS/MA Programs for 2024.

The School of Animation and Motion at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) provides courses and programs led by celebrated professors who have worked at major studios and on award-winning productions such as Ice Age , Pocahontas , and The Lion King . Students in the school also have opportunities to participate in SCAD Study Abroad in Lacoste, France, or other location, and the SCAD Savannah Film Festival, which highlights special film screenings, celebrity panels, lectures, workshops, and presentations with celebrated industry professionals. SCAD Film Festival is the largest university-run film festival in the world.

For artists seeking a graduate degree in Animation, Savannah College of Art and Design has a 45 credit hour Animation MA. Courses examples include Animation Aesthetics and Practice; 3D Cartoon Character Animation; Computer-Generated Modeling and Design; 3D Naturalistic Character Animation; Drawing in Motion; and Look Development. Students have the option to complete a graduate internship.

The Animation MA takes less than two years to complete and it is available at the Savannah campus and through SCADnow (online). The culminating experience for the SCAD MA program is the School of Animation and Motion MA Final Project. During this experience, students propose, develop, and execute a project that is then cut into their reel.

Across all SCAD Animation programs, graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles in all areas of Film and Animation. SCAD alumni have worked on Oscar nominated productions such as Encanto (won), Raya and the Last Dragon , Luca , and Turning Red and they have been recruited by major studios, gaming companies, and networks such as Pixar, 20th Century Fox, Sony Pictures Imageworks, Electronic Arts (EA), DreamWorks, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Lucasfilm Animation.

Many SCAD graduates have also established careers at places such as Microsoft, Adobe, Deloitte, Spotify, and Delta Air Lines.

Academy of Art University (Academy of Art) is home to the Houdini Certified School of Animation & Visual Effects (VFX). The school provides programs that take place in a studio production environment known as StudioX. The Academy of Art School of Animation & VFX is the only school of its kind to teach in this type of environment.

Because StudioX functions like most real-world studios, students gain hands-on experience using the latest industry standard equipment. Studio X students have been credited for their work on productions such as Beasts of the Southern Wild , Fruitvale Station , and many others.

Other School of Animation & VFX highlights include collaborations with other artists individually and in teams; the opportunity to manage a production from start to finish; and FAT (Feature Animation Training) Tuesdays classes. Taught by industry professionals from companies like Pixar and Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), these classes take place every Tuesday evening, and allow students to immerse in the mental processes of creating a character, and explore the emotional aspects of acting to enhance the characters they have created. All degree-seeking students will also complete an internship and create a professional portfolio of their best work. 

For students seeking an advanced degree, the School of Animation & VFX at Academy of Art has an Animation & VFX MA that focuses on storytelling and technical skills. Students in this 36-unit graduate program will work in 2D Animation & Stop Motion, 3D Animation, 3D Modeling, or VFX. Consisting of 63 units of study, the Animation & VFX MFA explores all areas of animation and visual effects from concept to post-production. Course examples include such as Traditional Animation; 3D Modeling and Animation 1 (Maya); Feature Animation; Perspective for Characters and Environment; Advanced Character Animation; and 3D Animation Studio.

The MA program culminates with the Final Portfolio for Animators. During this three-unit course, students will gain communication, collaboration, networking, marketing, and workplace pipeline skills while polishing their final portfolios.

Graduates of the School of Animation & VFX at Academy of Art University are prepared to pursue positions in all areas of animation, and at all levels. Graduates have gone on to establish careers at major companies and studios such as Pixar, Paramount, Marvel, Sony Pictures Animation, Google, LAIKA Studios, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Sony Pictures Imageworks, Wieden + Kennedy, DNEG, Riot Games, Weta Digital, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). 

Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media (CDM) at DePaul University (DePaul) houses three schools including Cinematic Arts, Computing, and Design. Across schools, students have access to more than 65 degree programs and minors. Within the School of Cinematic Arts is an Animation program that features courses taught by award-winning filmmakers who are part of one of the largest full-time animation faculties in the nation.

The school also provides access to a state-of-the-art, 32,000 square foot production facility known as DePaul Cinespace Studios, and the new Jarvis Student Center for Innovation and Collaboration. This 8,000 square-foot open space focuses on industry partnerships and multidisciplinary professional learning across emerging technologies. Collaborations and projects between students and faculty emphasize innovation and community needs.

Cinespace and other CDM/SCA studios and facilities provide access to latest industry animation software, tools, and technologies. This includes Cintiq labs, professional animation and effects software, 3D printing, stop motion stages and fabrication studios, sound studios, 3D motion capture, and motion control.

For students seeking a graduate degree, the Animation program at DePaul University has an Animation MA with concentrations in 3D Animation, Traditional Animation, Storyboarding and Character Design, Motion Graphics, and Technical Artist. Course examples for the program include 3D Animation Production; Animation Figure Study; Advanced Topics in Visual Effects; Topics in 3D Animation; and Game Art Pipeline.

All DePaul Animation students have the unique opportunity to participate in the Los Angeles Quarter Program. This 10-week immersive experience allows students to intern at major Hollywood studios such Disney, DreamWorks Animation, Sony Studios, Nickelodeon, The Jim Henson Company, Titmouse, and Warner Bros. Animation.

Other program benefits include the visiting artist series, where past guests have included artists from Disney and Pixar; access to the Animation Lodge; and participation in Project Bluelight. Students at The Lodge collaborate on group projects, network, and build their portfolios. Project Bluelight provides hands-on experience in motion picture production to all interested students.

Graduates of the Animation programs at DePaul University are prepared to pursue careers in all industries that require animation and game design and development skills. Program alumni have been hired by major studios and gaming companies such as DreamWorks Animation, Electronic Arts (EA), Warner Bros. Animation, Google, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Blizzard Entertainment, Disney Animation Studios, Iron Galaxy Studios, BioWare, and LAIKA Studios.

The School of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts (PVFA) at Texas A&M University (TAMU) is a multidisciplinary school that provides cross-disciplinary programs in music, film, theater, dance, visualization, and production. Across programs, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and studios; courses taught by faculty who are accomplished directors, computer graphics engineers, composers, sound technologists, art historians, and dancers; and student organizations such as Women in Animation, Viz Industry Fair (VIF), and Texas Aggie Game Developers (TAGD).

Within the TAMU School of PVFA is a Visualization program that was established nearly 35 years ago. For students seeking a graduate degree in animation, PVFA has a Visualization MS. Students in this program will explore computer graphics, interaction, design, visualization, and art. Students at all levels may focus in an area of emphasis.

TAMU Visualization MS students may also focus in one of eight areas of emphasis. These include Computer Animation, Interactive Design, Virtual Reality (VR), Gaming, Augmented Reality (AR), User Experience Design, Computer Graphics, and Data Visualization. This program has both thesis (32 credit hours) and non-thesis (36 credit hours) options.

Free electives allow MS students in both options to acquire additional advanced skills in their focus area and others. Elective examples include Advanced Animation; 3D Modeling and Animation; Computer Aided Sculpting; Design Communication I-II; Form, Installation, and Environment; Physical Computing for Art & Design; and Image Synthesis. MS students may also professional internship worth eight credits.

In addition, select Visualization graduate students will have the opportunity to participate in the Summer Industry Workshop. Students in this intensive course will work with professionals from major animation studios to produce professional-grade short films. The course takes place all day, every day, for 10 weeks.

Across all TAMU Visualization programs, students will have the opportunity to participate in the Annual Career Fair, and the Semester Away Program in Italy, Germany, and other countries.

Graduates of the Texas A&M University Visualization program will enter the job market with a polished portfolio of their best work. Program alumni are prepared for careers across industries. However, Visualization graduates are routinely hired for positions at major studios such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, DreamWorks Animation, Pixar, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and Reel FX Animation.

The College of Sciences at University of Central Florida (UCF) houses Nichols School of Communication & Media—home to Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA). Established in partnership with the city of Orlando, the state of Florida, and UCF, FIEA enrolls more than 130 students annually.

UCF FIEA has an Interactive Entertainment MS that provides the opportunity for students to compete and internship and work in production teams mentored by industry professionals. These mentors provide instruction in areas such as 3D animation and modeling, software engineering, game design, motion capture, technical art, and creative collaboration.

The Interactive Entertainment MS requires 30 credit hours of study, including 12 credit hours of core courses, nine credit hours in a specialization (Art, Production or Programming), a practicum, and a capstone experience. The Capstone results in a large-scale project that will be presented at a special event for the FIEA community and invited guests.

Graduates of the Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy at University of Central Florida are prepared to pursue careers at major studios across the U.S. and abroad. Program alumni have been hired at companies and studios such as Universal, Blizzard Entertainment, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Marvel, Sony, Walt Disney Imagineering, Gameloft, Nintendo, Electronic Arts (EA), DreamWorks, Google, Microsoft Studios, and Zynga. 

University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) is home to the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology (Bass School). Founded in 1975, the Bass School houses the first arts and technology degree in Texas. Launched in 2002, Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication (ATEC) at UT Dallas today consists of degrees are all levels, including the PhD.

For individuals seeking an MA, the UT Dallas Bass School has an ATEC MA that allows students to focus their studies and research in animation, science and technology, games, or other areas. Additional program highlights include guest speakers from major studios such as Disney, Pixar, and DreamWorks; applied and experimental research in collaboration with instructors in varying areas of expertise; seminars and lectures presented by industry professionals; and portfolio and project-based exercises.

ATEC students have access to the following Bass School research labs and creative practice studios: 3D Studio; ArtSciLab; Creative Automata Lab; Cultural Science Lab; Emerging Gizmology Lab; Fashioning Circuits; LabSynthE; Narrative Systems Research Lab; Public Interactives Research Lab (PIRL); SP&CE Media; and The Studio for Mediating Play.

Students focusing in animation also have access to the ATEC Animation Lab, where students can participate in a simulated animated studio experience. (SASE) Over two semesters, a crew of 40 SASE students will write, design, direct, and produce a two-minute CG animated short film. A few past films include Bad Timing (2022), Octo Ninja (2021), Night Shift (2020), and Stargazer (2019).

Graduates of the ATEC programs at UT Dallas are prepared to pursue careers across industries and in areas such as 3D computer animation, film and television, games, modeling and simulation, virtual environments, and medical and scientific visualization.

ATEC alumni have been hired at a variety of major companies and studios such as Disney, Blizzard Entertainment, Cisco Systems, Texas Instruments, Gearbox Software, AT&T Foundry, id Software, JP Morgan Chase, and 900lbs of Creative.

Purdue University (Purdue) is home to Purdue Polytechnic Institute (Purdue Polytechnic). Formally organized in 1964 as the School of Technology, Purdue Polytechnic houses the Department of Computer Graphics Technology (CGT). Within the Department is a CGT MS that participates in Purdue’s Computational Interdisciplinary Graduate Program.

The CGT MS at Purdue serves around 90 students. The program has four primary focus areas: Computer Animation, Games, Information Visualization, and UX Design. This highly flexible, interdisciplinary program also provides opportunities to take coursework across other Purdue graduate programs or develop a customized plan of study that includes computational art, computer graphics programming, and other areas.

MS students who would like to focus in Computer Animation will explore the entire digital animation process. The program also explores game studies, virtual reality, and visual effects. Course examples include The Art and Technology of Computer Animation; Seminar in Computer Graphics Technology; Visual Intelligence and Perception; and The Development of Graphics in Technology. Elective requirements also allow students to explore other areas of interest.

Students may choose the Animation Research Thesis or Non-Thesis option. Those in the non-thesis option will complete the Animation Capstone (Production). Graduates of the Purdue Polytechnic Institute CGT MS program are prepared for leadership and other roles across industries. Examples include Lead Animator, Technical Director, Senior Simulation and Visualization Specialist, Animation Director, Game Developer, Art Director, and Lead Technical Artist.

Program alumni have been hired at companies and studios such as DreamWorks, Google, Deloitte, and Salesforce. CGT MS graduates are also eligible to apply to the Technology PhD program. Also housed in the Department of Computer Graphics Technology at Purdue Polytechnic, the PhD supports study and research in Computer Animation, Game Studies, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Digital Enterprise Systems, User Experience (UX) Design, and Data Visualization.

The Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design at Drexel University (Drexel) has a Digital Media MS that focuses on research and media applications. Areas explored include animation, advanced digital design, gaming and digital media history, 3D modeling, and interactivity.

Students in this two-year program will complete several independent, industry-sponsored, student-created, or faculty-approved projects. Past projects have focused on animation design, advanced animation production techniques, narrative comics, and video games, among others.

Drexel University has one of the nation’s top cooperative (co-op) education programs, so students in all degree programs have the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience prior to graduation. Positions may be paid or unpaid. Past co-op positions include animation, visual effects, technical direction, and 3D work at places such as Pixar, Cartoon Network, Studios, FuseFX, and MediaKraft TV.

Graduates of the Digital Media programs at Drexel University have worked on projects such as Avengers: Infinity War , The Mandalorian , Ready Player One, and How to Train Your Dragon 2 . Program alumni have also been hired by major companies and studios such as Pixar, Microsoft, XBOX, DreamWorks, Disney, and NCSoft Corp. Some graduates go on to work in research and development in the fields of virtual reality, real-time rendering solutions, and generative design.

The School of Engineering and Applied Science at University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) is home to the Center for Human Modeling and Simulation (HMS). Within the HMS Center is a Computer Graphics and Game Technology (CGGT) Engineering MS (MSE) program.

Established in 2004, this interdisciplinary program provides opportunities to specialize in Art and Animation, Animation and Simulation Technology; Creative Design; Production Management, or Human/Computer Interfaces. Students in this program have access to equipment and resources available through the SIG Center for Computer Graphics.

Course examples for the MSE include Computer Animation; 3D Computer Modeling; Physically-Based Animation; Interactive Computer Graphics; Physically-Based Rendering; Digital Figure Modeling; and Advanced Project Animation.

Students in the UPenn CGGT MSE program will spend their first year in the Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT) program. Upon completion, students may pursue the CGGT degree. Because they have taken a total of 16 courses, graduates will receive two degrees: the MCIT and MSE CGGT.

Graduates of UPenn’s MSE CGGT program are prepared to pursue leadership roles and entrepreneurship in areas such as animation, design, directing, and game programming. Program alumni are routinely hired by major companies and studios such as Pixar, Microsoft, Walt Disney Animation, Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts (EA), DreamWorks Animation, Sony, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and Zynga. 

The College of Design at North Carolina State University (NC State) launched in 1946 as the School of Architecture and Landscape Design. It was renamed the School of Design in 1948, and the College of Design in 2000. Today, the College of Design at NC State provides programs across six areas at all degree levels. This includes the doctorate.

In addition to a variety of programs, the NC State College of Design provides an interdisciplinary first-year experience; workshops; swing studios in other majors; internship opportunities; and study abroad experiences in places such as Prague, Chile, and Greece.

The College of Design at NC State also has a graduate option for animators. Housed in the College’s Department of Media Arts, Design and Technology is a Masters of Art + Design (MAD) that emphasizes experimental media arts. Elective options allow students to enhance the degree. Examples include 3D Animation; Creative Coding; Sequential Imaging; Special Effects; Digital Motion; Seminar in Animation; Visualizing Narrative; Digital Modeling; and Business of Design.

Depending on their background, MAD students also have opportunities to select from three tracks: Track 1 (30 credit hours); Track 2: 48 credit hours; and Track 3: 72 credit hours. Track 1 is designed for students with a strong background in interactive and experimental arts. Track 2 is ideal for students with an undergraduate degree in interactive and experimental media. These students are likely seeking initial studios to explore new theories and concepts for their final projects. Track 3 is for students who do not have a strong background in interactive and experimental media arts. Though these students may have a degree in another area, they will need to spend the first year taking advanced undergraduate courses.

For all MAD tracks, the final year provides the opportunity to produce a project in animation, interactive media, or other area of the students choosing. Students who choose not to complete a project may, instead, produce a research-based study or paper.

Graduates of the MAD program at North Carolina State University are prepared for leadership roles in fields such as animation, digital special effects, multimedia, illustration, filmmaking, and software design. Some graduates go on to launch their own studios and freelance businesses, while others become art and design educators at major colleges and universities.

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Graduate route: rapid review

The Migration Advisory Committee's report on the Graduate route, with a letter to the Home Secretary.

Graduate route: rapid review (accessible)

PDF , 1.47 MB , 70 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Letter to the Home Secretary on the rapid review of the Graduate route (accessible)

Letter to the home secretary on the rapid review of the graduate route.

PDF , 121 KB , 3 pages

Data tables

ODS , 1.17 MB

This file is in an OpenDocument format

In March 2024, the Home Secretary commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee to carry out a rapid review of the Graduate route.

The committee recommends that the route stays in place in its current form.

Added an accessible version of the report.

Added the data tables spreadsheet.

First published.

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Who is Barron Trump? What to know about Donald Trump's son graduating high school

Former President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump's youngest son, Barron Trump, will graduate high school on Friday, but what's next for him?

What to know about Oxbridge Academy

Barron is set to graduate from Oxbridge Academy in Palm Beach, Florida, an elite preparatory school for grades six through 12. The school prides itself on its annual 100% college acceptance rate, with half of the graduates attending a top 100 U.S. university or a top 50 liberal arts college

More: Oxbridge asks media, onlookers to stay away from graduation for Barron Trump, other seniors

Who is Barron Trump?

18-year-old Barron is the youngest and sole child of Donald and Melania.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

Where is Barron Trump's graduation? 

The graduation is being held at Oxbridge Academy but is "private, by invitation only," as reported by The Palm Beach Post.

Where is Barron Trump's college plan?

No official statement has yet been issued, but Donald and three of his older children, including Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Tiffany, all attended the University of Pennsylvania.

More: Barron Trump "declined" delegate invite to GOP convention, Melania Trump said in statement

Is Donald Trump's son involved in politics? 

Although Barron is old enough to vote for his father in November, he won't be casting a ballot as a delegate at this summer's Republican National Convention, as was previously announced.

The Palm Beach Post reported that Melania issued a statement through her office saying that while the 18-year-old was "honored" to have been offered the opportunity, he declined the offer. The statement cited Barron's "prior commitments" for the decision but did not elaborate.