Animation & Visual Effects (MA)

The ma program provides students an opportunity to work in 2d animation & stop motion, 3d animation, 3d modeling, or visual effects, while focusing on storytelling with an emphasis on exhibiting technical skills and eliciting emotional responses. 

Ma animation & visual effects degree requirements

• Successful completion of Final Portfolio Review
• Minimum grade of C in all required 36 units
• Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and the following Academic Study requirement:
• 1 Art Historical Awareness & Aesthetic Sensitivity course

Program Learning Outcomes
Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

• 2D Animation & Stop Motion - Traditional Animation
• Demonstrate strong draftsmanship skills
• Create pieces that showcase expression and emotion
• Stage stories through effective camera placement choices
• Apply the major principles of animation
• Technical Skills - Demonstrate facility with animation technology and software
• Presentation Skills - Clearly demonstrate project and workflow plan
• Presentation Skills - Create a compellingly designed and well-composed review materials
• Professional Readiness - Curate a cohesive portfolio or demo reel tailored to reflect industry standards for a desired position

3D Animation

• Apply the major principles of animation
• Create pieces that showcase expression and emotion
• Stage stories through effective camera placement choices
• Technical Skills - Demonstrate facility with animation technology and software
• Presentation Skills - Create a compellingly designed and well-composed review materials
• Professional Readiness - Curate a cohesive portfolio or demo reel tailored to reflect industry standards for a desired position

3D Modeling – Modeling

• Convincingly model forms in 3-dimensions that demonstrate a thorough understanding of anatomy and sculptural form
• Display a range of modeling skill sets including hard surfaces and organic
• Create textures that will be applied to the surface of models
• Produce industry-standard turnarounds and wireframes
• Technical Skills - Demonstrate facility with animation technology and software
• Professional Readiness - Curate a cohesive portfolio or demo reel tailored to reflect industry standards for a desired position

Visual Effects

• Create shots or assets appropriate to the project aesthetic
• Develop shots or assets for narrative power
• Technical Skills - Demonstrate facility with visual effects technology and software
• Presentation Skills - Clearly demonstrate project and workflow plan
• Professional Readiness - Curate a cohesive portfolio or demo reel tailored to reflect industry standards for a desired position

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

• Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
• Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual
• knowledge.
• Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skillsrelevant to their field.
• Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
• Use professional terminology to evaluate their work and work in the field.
• Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
• Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design
• Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, athletics, student interest clubs, and participation in collaborative, civic, and pro bono projects.