Jump into an Animation Career

Take a minute to consider the growing dominance of animated features in the entertainment industry. What Disney began, other studios have embraced and enhanced with computer-assisted animation and special effects.

Nearly every movie made today incorporates some digital special effects. And fully animated features have come to dominate the big screen. DreamWorks Animation alone has put out a number of full-length animated features in the last few years.

What Education Do I Need to Get into Animation?

This entertainment trend leaves little doubt that animation and special effects is a fabulous career choice. What does it take to get started in this promising career?

Animation has evolved into a highly technical art form, and formal training is a must. The top production studios look for job candidates with at least a bachelor's degree in Graphic Arts or Animation. This degree usually takes about four years to complete. Coursework includes:

• Digital animation
• Sketching
• Graphic design
• CAD applications
• Special effects creation.

Most colleges offer programs in graphic arts and animation. Film institutes also train animators and special effects artists. If you have an interest in digital animation and special effects, now is an ideal time to try your hand at this expanding art.