Film and Animation BA, Animation MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode Online
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Film and Animation BA at Fairleigh Dickinson University is designed for aspiring storytellers and visual artists who wish to master the art and technology of animation. You will explore the principles of 3D computer modeling, motion graphics, character animation, and visual effects, developing a strong foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical application. This undergraduate degree prepares you for a dynamic industry where creativity meets technical expertise, equipping you with the skills to bring imaginative worlds and characters to life through compelling visual narratives. It's ideal for students passionate about digital art and emerging media.

This full-time, four-year online Bachelor of Arts program immerses you in a comprehensive curriculum that includes core courses in storyboarding, 3D computer animation, and motion graphics with After Effects. You will engage with specialized areas like ZBrush digital sculpting, environment modeling, and character animation using CAT, culminating in a significant thesis project. Throughout your studies, you will develop a professional portfolio and gain experience through major electives and cognate courses. You will graduate prepared for diverse career paths in animation studios, game development, and visual effects houses, ready to contribute your unique creative vision.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of animation theory and production, covering essential skills in storyboarding, motion graphics, 3D modeling, and character animation. Students will engage with industry-standard software and techniques to develop their creative vision. The curriculum also includes opportunities for specialization through major electives and cognate courses in areas like digital imagery and professional practice, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the animation and film industries.

1 Theory and Production

Storyboarding
Motion Graphics with After Effects
3D Computer Modeling
ZBrush Digital Sculpting
3D Computer Animation
3D Environment Modeling
Logo and Product Animation
Character Animation using CAT
Thesis I
Thesis II

2 Major Electives

4-5 ANIM 1000-4000 Level Courses

3 Cognates

Creative Imagery with Photoshop
Professional Practice: Animation

4 Required Courses

Storytelling
Character Design
Digital Sculpting
3D Character Texturing
3D Character Animation
Advanced 3D Character Animation

5 Major Electives

2 ANIM 5000 or Higher Level Courses

6 Required Courses

Character Design
Digital 2D Animation
3D Layers in After Effects
Dynamic Effects and Particle Systems in After Effects
Compositing in After Effects
3D Particle Systems and Effects

7 Theory and Production

Game Design
Low Poly 3D Modeling
ZBrush Digital Sculpting
3D Computer Animation
3D Environment Modeling
Character Animation using CAT
3D Game Creation using Unreal
3D Game Creation using Unity
Senior Thesis I
Senior Thesis II

8 Major Electives

4-5 ANIM 1000-4000 Level Courses

9 Cognates

Drawing I
Creative Imagery with Photoshop
Professional Practice: Animation

10 Required Courses

Character Design
Digital 2D Animation
Digital Sculpting
3D Animation for Games
Game Creation
Advanced Game Creation

11 Major Electives

2 ANIM 5000 or Higher Level Courses

12 Other Animation Electives

Drawing for Animation
Advanced After Effects
3D Character Modeling
3D Printing
3D Asset Creation for Video Games
Texturing for 3D Production
Fundamentals of Animation II
2D animation with OpenToonz
Vector Animation II
3D Particle Animation and Effects
Advanced Character Animation
Custom 3D Character Rigging & Animation
2D animation with Toon Boom
Design & Development of Video Games
Internship in Animation I
Internship in Animation II
Independent Study in Animation
Faculty/Student Research
Faculty/Student Research
History of Animation & Special Effects
History of Video Games
3D Modeling
3D Character Modeling
Advanced Digital 2D Animation
Expressions and Scripting in After Effects
Animation with Houdini
Animating Fluids
Motion Tracking
Digital 2D Game Creation
3D Character Animation – Weight, Overlap and Follow through
Character Animation – Emotion and Personality
Lip-Syncing
Animation with Hair/Fur
Animation with Cloth
Motion Capture
Virtual Reality
Internship I
Video Game Team Project
Faculty/Student Research I
Internship II
Faculty/Student Research II
Animation Career Preparation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,500.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,500.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,500.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,500.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 166,000.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAmusement & Recreation ServicesApparel Manufacturing & ProductionBanking & Financial ServicesDigital Media & Online PublishingFilm & Television ProductionInvestment Management & Asset ManagementLuxury Goods & AccessoriesProduct Management & UXStreaming & Digital Content

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Art Institute of Chicago

Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fiserv

HBO

Microsoft

Paramount

T-Mobile

Why Study Film and Animation BA, Animation MA at Fairleigh Dickinson University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Moderate Application response time

Fairleigh Dickinson University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Film and Animation BA, Animation MA at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time, and full-time during breaks. No special work permits are needed for on-campus jobs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English test requirements include specific scores for tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. For instance, Duolingo requires an overall score of 100 across various sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Animation Director, Character Animator, Storyboard Artist, Visual Effects Artist, and Motion Graphics Designer.

What will I actually study in this course?

Our BA-MA in Animation allows students to complete both degrees, focusing on advanced animation skills. It is particularly beneficial for those looking to enhance their training beyond undergraduate studies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Film and Animation BA and Animation MA have intake months in January and August. Ensure to apply ahead of these dates to secure your admission.
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