Production Animation Specialization
Program Quick Facts
Credits
120
Start Terms
Fall
|Spring
Available
On Campus
Tuition
$8,956.50
estimated cost per semester
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.
Curriculum and experience highlights
2D Visual Development Art - Ashlyn Johnson
3D Modeling and Texturing - Lauryn Strand
2D Animation - Mathew Rusche
3D Animation - Beau Headrick
Game Model- Irvan Damiba
2D Visual Development Art - Trissa Morseman
2D Animation - Avery Grover
3D Modeling and Texturing - Noah Paxton
DSU student work
Our production animation students have outstanding work, showing strong creativity and growing confidence in their skills. Through short films, character animations, and team projects, they brought their ideas to life using professional tools and techniques. Their projects highlight their ability to tell stories, design appealing characters, and solve problems along the way.
How students break into the industry
As a student in the production animation degree program, your work has the potential to reach a national audience. Many graduates from this program have seen their classroom projects evolve into recognized works. Notable exhibitions include selections for:
- Boundless Film Festival
- Portland Film Festival
- T-Short Animated Film Festival
- First-Time Filmmaker Sessions at Lift-off Global Network
- Lift-off Global Network Film Festival
“I looked at a lot of schools, but I really liked how DSU’s animation program incorporated a lot of fine art classes as well as digital art and animation classes.”
Breanne Butters, animation at DreamWorks, production animation '16
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."
Faculty
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.
