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262 Animation degrees abroad

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    Degrees in Animation

    What is animation?

    We've all seen animated movies or tv shows. But, have you ever wondered how they came to be? Animating is a highly detail-oriented job in which animators manipulate pictures to create the effect that they are moving. However, animators aren't only needed for film and tv. Animation is a pervasive field that also covers video games, motion graphics, and IT interfaces.

    Today, animation is also becoming more popular in the marketing field. Animated videos are increasingly more common as part of social media strategies. Including an animated video on a landing page can increase conversion rates by nearly 80%, while including one in an email increases the click-through rate 200-300%! With stats like these, it's no wonder marketing teams around the globe are turning their sights on animators.

    Therefore, grab the opportunity while it's hot, and study animation abroad! You won't regret it when you're making new, international friends, expanding your professional network, and exploring everything a new culture has to offer.

    What are the prerequisites for studying animation?

    In general, it is the students with creative tendencies that lean towards studying animation abroad. As well as artistic flair, it is also usually important for students to have at least a basic understanding of common animation software and IT. The most common pathway into a full animation degree is through a foundation program in art and design which allows students to develop their artistic skills and build up a portfolio of work, something that is commonly asked for as part of a degree application. Alternatively, many universities will also accept high school qualifications (e.g. SATs or A-levels).

    What will I learn studying animation abroad?

    Diploma & Bachelor programs

    The curriculum of an animation degree will really depend on the qualification and level of specialization of the program. For those new to animation or those who perhaps have not had a lot of experience, diplomas or bachelors are often perfect programs to gain an broad understanding of animation at a fundamental level and allow students to get a taste of a variety of different aspects. This is particularly beneficial for students who know they want to eventually work in animation, but perhaps are unsure of what specific area they are interested in.

    Some general skills covered in a diploma or bachelor program could include:

    • Image editing and manipulation
    • Special Effects
    • Animation for the Web
    • 2-D and 3-D modeling
    • Storytelling
    An animated bunny

    MASTER & DOCTORATE PROGRAMS IN ANIMATION

    For those with higher levels of experience, master or doctorate degrees will often focus more around a specific area, role or industry, allowing for a more specific education that leads to particular jobs and roles within animation (like the ones listed above). Generally, students studying a master or doctorate degree in animation abroad will gain advanced-level software and business skills that are specific to the industry they're interested in working in. 

    Why study an animation degree abroad?

    Studying animation abroad is the perfect opportunity for students with a creative flair to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to pursue a career in a range of industries, combining art and technology to create moving objects, characters and visual effects to tell stories and entertain audiences of all ages. Animation is also a global industry worth billions. Therefore, animation is one of the best subjects to study abroad. According to the Animation Career Review, studying animation abroad provides students with the opportunity to immerse in new and different art styles and to work with other artists in different cultures.

    Careers in animation

    Studying an animation degree abroad could lead to a plethora of specialist careers, including but not limited to:

    • 3D Modeler
    • Animator
    • Art Director
    • Background Painter
    • Cartoonist
    • Color Key Artist
    • Director
    • Effects Animator
    • Forensic Animator
    • Film & Video Editor
    • Graphic Designer
    • Lighting Technician
    • Stop Motion Animator
    • Storyboard Artist
    • Texture Artist
    • Video Game Designer


    If you're employed by a studio, animators generally work in an office environment with other employees working on the project. In some instances, you may be able to work from home if you work on a more freelance basis.

    Here are some average statistics for animation jobs in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

    Typical Entry-Level Education

    Bachelor's degree


    Number of Jobs

    73,700


    Job Outlook, 2016 - 2026

    8% (as fast as average)


    Average Salary

    USD $72,520


    So, are you ready to pursue an animation degree abroad? Search all of the animation programs to find one that suits you best!