Animation
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Concentration*
Explore the limitless possibilities of animated storytelling.
| Type | Credits | Duration | Format | School and Department |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Fine Arts – Studio Art | 120 | 4 years, Full-time
| In-person, studio | School of Visual Art (SVA) |
| Secondary Concentration, BFA or BDes | 15 | 2 years (completed alongside primary degree |
Animation at AUArts is where your ideas come to life—frame by frame, pixel by pixel. Build worlds, invent characters and craft stories that captivate audiences. Explore everything from classical hand-drawn animation to stop motion, 3D and experimental techniques. Learn the art and science of movement, emotion and timing—then create your own original shorts and animated projects.
Program Overview
Animation is about more than moving pictures—it’s about moving people. Our program encourages you to explore animation as a powerful tool for storytelling, expression and innovation across a variety of platforms, from film and games to gallery installations and experimental media.
Students master a full spectrum of analog and digital techniques, learning to craft compelling characters, dynamic stories and immersive worlds. You’ll gain foundational skills in drawing, storyboarding, character design and animation principles, then expand your practice into 2D, 3D, stop-motion and mixed media.
Whether your passion is narrative film, visual effects, motion graphics or avant-garde media art, you’ll find the tools, mentorship and creative freedom to develop your unique voice as an animator.
Program Highlights
- Creative exploration: Develop your vision in a program that balances traditional techniques and contemporary technologies.
- Studio culture: Work alongside passionate artists in dedicated studios, collaborating, critiquing and learning together.
- Concept to completion: From concept sketches to finished films, every step of the animation process is covered.
- Interdisciplinary practice: Blend animation with illustration, comics, film and interactive media.
- Professional readiness: Build a portfolio that stands out—supported by one-on-one faculty mentorship and exposure to industry trends.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Animation program will:
- Demonstrate proficiency in 2D, 3D, stop-motion and experimental animation techniques.
- Develop original animated works that express a personal artistic voice.
- Apply principles of visual storytelling, motion and timing to engage audiences.
- Collaborate effectively in studio settings, giving and receiving constructive critique.
- Understand the history, theory and cultural impact of animation as both art and industry.
- Prepare a professional portfolio and demo reel suitable for creative industries or further study.
Faculty
AUArts animation is taught by practicing animators, filmmakers and multimedia artists with national and international experience. Faculty bring a diversity of perspectives—experimental, commercial and academic—while technicians support your growth in digital and traditional studios, ensuring you master the latest tools and techniques.
Permanent Faculty
Studio Technicians
Alumni
Our grads have worked on award-winning films, TV productions, games and gallery installations. Many have launched independent projects or pursued advanced study at top institutions.
Studio Facilities
Animation students have access to:
- State-of-the-art animation studios set up with Dragon Frame and stop motion camera set-ups.
- Digital labs with industry-standard software, including:
- Adobe Creative Suite, Toon Boom Harmony Pro, Maya, Blender, Storyboard Pro, Audacity and more.
- Sound labs and editing suites for audio, post-production and motion graphics.
- Access to fabrication, printmaking and media arts studios for interdisciplinary projects.
- Extensive library of animation films, graphic novels and reference materials.
Career Paths
AUArts grads and students animate across film, TV, games and digital media—using storytelling and motion design as launchpads for diverse creative careers.
Potential career opportunities include:
- Animator (2D/3D/Stop-Motion/Experimental)
- Storyboard Artist
- Character Designer or Visual Development Artist
- Motion Graphics Artist
- Director or Producer (animation, film, digital media)
- VFX Artist
- Game Artist or Animator
- Independent Filmmaker
- Educator or Researcher in animation/media arts
Culture & Community
Animation is a hub for storytellers who bring characters to life and thrive in a culture of collaboration and experimentation.
Beyond the classroom
- Work-Integrated Learning: Opportunities for internships and job placements with local studios, festivals or non-profits.
- Community & Events: Join student-run clubs, discord chats or attend on-campus events, visiting artist lectures and workshops.
- Awards & Scholarships: Receive financial support through scholarships, awards, paid call-for-submissions and funding for creative projects.
- Academic Resources: One-on-one faculty mentorship and access to technical support. Plus, full access to AUArts' Writing Centre, Luke Lindoe Library and Learning Commons.
About the Animation Concentration
Animation at AUArts is a flexible program open as a BFA - Studio Art concentration or secondary concentration to all undergraduate students. Whether your goal is to work in film, TV, games or gallery spaces—or to pioneer new forms of visual storytelling—you’ll find the community, mentorship and creative resources to make your mark.