The Animation program at College of DuPage is for students who want to create 3D animations, motion graphics or traditional hand-drawn animation. Learn the techniques for creating a variety of animation types and computer generated imagery and have the opportunity to learn cartoon drawing, character design, modeling, stop-motion production, storyboard development and motion graphics. Students will also produce a number of lively animated shorts, as well as a final portfolio film.
The Animation degree is a cross-disciplinary effort between several programs including Motion/Picture Television. The program is designed to prepare students interested in animation or motion graphics for gaming, film or television.
Determine Your Path
First-time students should begin their studies with the following MPTV courses: Introduction to Animation (MPTV 1311), Drawing I (ART 1101) and Editing for Motion Pictures and Television (MPTV 1020). Advanced students should take Three Dimensional Animation I (MPTV 2331), Life Drawing I (ART 2201 and Animation Portfolio (MPTV 2342).
For over 15 years, the Motion Picture/Television program at College of DuPage has been educating and training students in videography, television, animation and documentary filmmaking.
As an MPTV student, you'll find:
- Passionate faculty with award-winning national production credits including Disney, Warner Brothers, Paramount and Universal with degrees from top MPTV programs.
- Smaller class sizes with hands-on learning.
- State-of-the-art film and television studio with multi-camera control room, lighting grid, chroma-key screen, green room and more.
- Computer labs with the latest professional, cross-platform software.
- Audio studios with computers, professional software, mixers and professional microphones.
- Individual computer editing suites for advanced students.
- Professional HD/SD digital video cameras and extensive support equipment.
- Internship and employment opportunities with a broad range of employers in Chicago and the suburbs.
- Articulated transfer programs with several prestigious institutions.
Animation, Associate in Applied Science
The Animation, Associate in Applied Science degree program specializes in preparing students for employment and/or transfer in the field of animation.
Animation
Students who earn an Animation certificate can be beneficial for those seeking a career in advertising, public relations and other related fields.
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"I continue coming back to COD because it is up-to-date with the latest software, computers, technology and equipment. I also like the teacher-to-student ratio in the classroom. The instructors are always available to advise and help each student.” - Stephanie Boesso
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The first step to getting started in Animation is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
- Demonstrate proficiency in animation techniques
- Apply creative solutions to design problems
- Create animated video/film of portfolio quality
- Construct an animation portfolio
- Demonstrate ability to present demo reel to prospective employer
- Prepare students for an entry level position in areas such as an animator, creative director, graphic artist/designer, illustrator, 3D artist, 3D animator
- Demonstrate proficiency in animation techniques
- Apply creative solutions to design problems
- Create animated video/film of portfolio quality
- Construct an animation portfolio
- Demonstrate ability to present demo reel to prospective employer
- Prepare students for an entry level position in areas such as an animator, creative director, graphic artist/designer, illustrator, 3D artist, 3D animator
College of DuPage has several motion picture/television transfer agreements in place with four-year colleges and universities to save you time, money and make the transfer process easier.
Many of these agreements with other colleges and universities have specific course requirements and a pre-determined course plan that needs to be followed to be eligible to transfer. Contact a program faculty member or academic advisor to learn more as course requirements vary by institution.
Career Information
