Dakota State University students walking around campus

Rise with us

DSU is a place where innovation meets opportunity. We are a nationally recognized leader in technology-driven education, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With hands-on learning experiences, expert faculty, and cutting-edge facilities, we prepare you for modern careers. Choose from a wide range of affordable, forward-thinking programs that allow you to shape your own path. Your future begins today.

Majors & Degrees

Production Animation, BS

Credits

120

Start Terms

Fall

|

Spring

Available

On Campus

Tuition

$8,956.50

estimated cost per semester

More tuition details

From character design to special effects, computer animation plays a vital role in the entertainment industry. With a Bachelor of Science in Digital Arts & Design, specializing in production animation, you can unleash your creativity and bring imaginative worlds to life.

Through hands-on experience with cutting-edge software and professional video production tools, you’ll dive into the world of computer-generated imagery (CGI), mastering everything from animation layout and transitions to resolution and visual design. You'll also explore the unique qualities of both 2D and 3D graphics, gaining a well-rounded understanding of animation techniques. By graduation, you'll have a polished portfolio showcasing original characters and dynamic environments—fully prepared to contribute as a key member of any multimedia design team.

Cirriculm and experience highlights

How DSU students break into the industry

As a student within the production animation degree, your work could reach a national level. Recent graduate, Beau Headrick's "DAYTRIP" animation that started as just a classroom project expanded into recongized work. Beau's work was selected for: 

  • Boundless Film Festival
  • Portland Film Festival
  • T-Short Animated Film Festival
  • First-time Filmmaker Sessions Lift-off Global Network
  • Lift-off Global Network Film Festival

$99,800

National median annual wage for special effects artists and animators

92.9%

Production animation program placement rate

$70,980

National median annual wage for film and video editors

Why choose DSU for animation?

Animation experts in the classroom and on the big screen

The professors in the Bachelor of Science in Production Animation program are accomplished professionals who bring real-world experience and strong portfolios into the classroom. Their industry expertise ensures you’ll receive a high-quality education while building valuable connections that can support your career after graduation. For example, Associate Professor Daniel Welynn’s animated short "Karuk Fire Race" was featured in multiple film festivals, including The World’s Independent Film Festival in San Francisco. Meanwhile, Assistant Professor of Practice Konrad Lightner has contributed to many major Disney productions as a developer and modeler, a few being "Encanto," "Frozen," and "Zootopia."

See Professor Konrad Lightner's Work

Career possibilities in animation

With a professional portfolio in hand, you’ll be ready to showcase your creative vision, technical skills, and storytelling abilities to future employers. Whether it's character design, animation sequences, or world-building, your work will reflect your expertise in every stage of the production pipeline. The animation industry is constantly evolving and in search of talented designers, artists, and innovators who can push the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Faculty

Your future at DSU begins today.

Related Programs