Online Master's Degree in Visual Effects and Animation
If you are passionate about visual effects and animation, you may want to consider earning a master's degree online. Continue reading to see what kinds of classes you can take and how you can earn this degree online. Schools offering Animation degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

What Is a Master's Degree in Visual Effects and Animation?
A master's degree program in this field can teach students to build advanced multimedia projects using drawings, film clips and computer software. Programs typically take two years to complete. Finding a master's degree specifically titled 'visual effects and animation' may be challenging; however, related degree titles include 'interactive design and game development,' 'motion media design' and 'cinema production.' Your training will be advantageous in securing positions like 2-D or 3-D animator, digital filmmaker, storyboard artist, post-production professional, compositor and 3-D modeler.
Degree Fields | Animation, game development, cinema production, media design |
Common Courses | Cinematography, stop motion, 2-D and 3-D animation, thumbnail drawing |
Online Requirements | Significant RAM, reliable Internet connection, updated video and sound cards and drivers, updated browser |
What Will I Learn Online?
You will be trained to translate traditional, hand-made paintings and sketches into computer imagery, and you'll learn how to incorporate these graphics with story lines and informational content. Your projects may have commercial, informational or entertainment purposes.
Your online coursework may be facilitated through software applications, such as Blackboard, which provides a virtual classroom experience. Through your program, you'll learn how to create 2-D and 3-D animations, as well as stop motion, traditional character and Maya character animations. Other topics of study might include thumbnail drawing, digital compositing, background painting and cartooning. You may also be trained in cinematography, advanced sound design, typography and screen design.
The training that you receive will help prepare you for a variety of work duties, such as creating short animated film, designing storyboards for movies, television programs and commercials, managing all aspects of visual effects shots and designing 3-D characters. You could work for an array of employers, including movie and television companies, video game manufacturers, design service firms and advertising companies.
What Are the Technical Requirements for My Computer System?
The technical requirements for your computer system will vary with each school. However, requirements commonly include a minimum version of Internet Explorer, Safari or Firefox, a minimum amount of RAM memory, video and sound cards, and a stable, fast internet connection speed.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below: