Animation B.F.A. & Minor

The Animation program offers a creative and technically immersive journey into the world of visual storytelling. Whether you're pursuing the full Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or adding an Animation Minor to complement another field of study, our courses equip you with the skills to bring stories, characters, and worlds to life. 

Students explore a range of animation techniques—from hand-drawn 2D and digital 3D animation to character design, storyboarding, motion graphics, and environment design. With access to industry-standard tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and 3D modeling software, you'll learn both the artistic and technical sides of animation. 

The BFA in Animation provides an in-depth, studio-based experience designed to prepare students for careers in animation, film, gaming, and emerging media. Meanwhile, the Animation Minor offers flexibility for students in other majors to build foundational animation skills that enhance their creative toolkit. From drawing and design principles to advanced storytelling and animation studios, our program emphasizes both creativity and craft—preparing you to shape the future of animated media.

Programs Offered

Animation
Bachelor of Fine Art

  • Quick Facts

  • Level

    Undergraduate

  • Location

    La Sierra Campus

  • Duration

    99 Units

  • Accreditation

    WASC

  • Curriculum Sheet Coming Soon

Description:

The BFA in Animation is a comprehensive program that combines traditional and digital techniques to prepare students for careers in animation, visual storytelling, and interactive media. Students gain hands-on experience in 2D and 3D animation, character and environment design, storyboarding, motion graphics, and more. The curriculum encourages creative expression while building technical skills aligned with industry standards.

Students also have the opportunity to explore electives in ceramics, graphic design, or user interface, allowing them to personalize their artistic direction. Internships are strongly recommended to gain real-world experience and professional connections.

Choose the remaining 28 Units from Studio Classes

Photography
Minor

  • Quick Facts

  • Level

    minor

  • Location

    La Sierra Campus

  • Duration

    28 Units

  • Accreditation

    WASC

  • Curriculum Sheet Coming Soon

Description:

The Animation Minor provides students with foundational and intermediate skills in visual storytelling, character design, 2D and 3D animation, and digital art tools. This program blends traditional art techniques with digital media, preparing students for roles in animation, gaming, entertainment, and design industries.

Student Learning Outcomes

The Department of Art+Design has the following core learning outcomes:

  1. How to demonstrate skills in a range of techniques and media.
  2. How to communicate concepts through effective use of design and color.
  3. How to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of visual culture in relation to historical movements and works.
  4. How to practice effective oral and written communication skills.
  5. How to produce professionally presented work.
  6. Students will cultivate an inclusive, creative community.