subject: Computer Animation - Online Career Preparation Choices [print this page] Computer Animation - Online Career Preparation Choices
Computer generated animations are used in a variety of mediums such as Internet websites, video games, and movies. Students that have a passion for computer technology and drawing can complete an online program in computer animation. Many schools provide students with the needed skills to step into a career.
Training can be pursued at the available associate's, bachelors, and master's degree level of education. Degree programs break down the computer technology used within the industry to prepare them for animation careers. Students can expect to first learn the basic foundation of pen to paper sketching as well as the technological side of the industry. A variety of programs can be entered online. Students can choose to gain an educational degree in computer animation, animation, and digital design. These three highly related areas give students the chance to study multimedia design and animation concepts from their own home.
An associate's degree program provides students with the skills to use computer software to generate 2-D and 3-D animations. Education will typically begin with traditional drawing techniques and then introduce students to the digital side of the field. Training covers the use of storytelling to help capture specific imagery used to generate animation. Possible career paths available for associate's degree holders may include:
Visual Effects Artists
Computer Game Designers
Illustration procedures, sculpting techniques, modeling concepts, and graphic design courses online are specific topics that students work through at the associate's degree level to prepare for a career.
A bachelor's degree program advances the skill level of students. Imagination, drawing, design, and directing are some common focal points inside a program. Online education requires students to have the appropriate computer programs to successfully complete the program. Adobe Photoshop is one program required by most schools. Coursework covers character modeling, design and more complex courses. Storyboard development, advanced 3-D animation, and scene depiction make up some advanced subjects that provide great career preparation. Some possible career options for graduates include:
3-D Animators
Animation Scripters
Education trains students to understand the animation process from idea creation through post-production. Digital imaging, production studio, life drawing, and advanced modeling are some courses completed online.
A wide range of advanced topics are covered when students seek advanced training. Masters degree programs prepare students to fully understand the technical and aesthetic components of the field. Students work through in-depth topics that include art history, criticism, and experimentation. Most online programs focus on giving students the understanding to fully use animation in a variety of mediums. Course time will be divided into classroom lectures and animation projects to help students prepare for advanced careers and managerial positions. Some career options can include:
Lead Illustrators
Animation Scripters
Education lasts approximately two years and provides students with a highly concentrated curriculum. Online training in film production, advertisement design, human-computer interaction, visual theory and cartooning are some courses included in a typical master's degree program.
Students can gain the needed educational training by completing an accredited online computer animation degree program. Full accreditation is provided by agencies like the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation (NASAD) to quality educational training programs. Choosing an online program is the first step to entering a fast paced and technology driven career in computer animation.
