Animation Degrees

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the motion picture and video industries is expected to grow 31 percent between 2002 and 2012. This is double the Bureau of Labor Statistics' projected growth for all industries. Animators, multimedia artists, and others skilled in computer-generated imaging should have the best job prospects, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The growth of animation jobs in the motion picture and video industries results from growing demand for film, cable, and satellite television programming by home viewers, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Animation degrees are designed to equip you with the skills needed to pursue a career in computer animation.

While studying for an animation degree, you'll have the opportunity to study art and computer graphics for the purpose of creating and editing visual images. Coursework may involve classes in topics such as animation and motion studies, computer graphics and multimedia, and drawing.

Animation degrees are offered at art schools, technical schools, colleges, and universities. Animation degree programs may offer certificates and associate's degrees, which typically take one to two years. Bachelor's and graduate animation degree programs are also available.

Job Overview of Animators in Film and Television

Most animators rely heavily on computer technology to generate special effects, animation, and other visual images seen in film and television productions and computer games. Animators may create "synthespians," computer-generated images of real actors that replace the actors in scenes that involve particularly dangerous or difficult stunts. An increasing number of animators doing such work are employed in small to medium-sized companies that specialize in computer animation and special effects. Animators may also be required to do some drawing by hand. For example, animators working in advertising may draw storyboards that present ideas of television commercials. Those working in film may draw storyboards that depict actors in scenes.