Overview

The Animation and Visual Effects programme at Academy of Art University offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for the fast-paced world of digital entertainment and media. By combining traditional artistic principles with cutting-edge technology, the curriculum ensures that graduates are equipped with the technical proficiency and creative vision required by modern studios. Students engage in a rigorous learning environment that mirrors professional production pipelines.

Why Animation and Visual Effects at Academy of Art University?

The institution is renowned for its "no barriers" approach to education, providing high-level artistic training without requiring a preliminary portfolio for admission. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary curriculum that now includes over 20 AI-infused courses, ensuring they remain at the forefront of technological advancements in the creative sector. The university provides access to exceptional facilities, including specialised equipment labs and studios that allow for hands-on experimentation across various media.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 40368 per year
National fee: USD 31224 per year
Local fee: USD 31224 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build fundamental skills before moving into specialised areas of digital production. Modules may include:

Animation & Visual Effects
Undergraduate Foundations
Liberal Arts Education
Generative AI
Visual Development
Motion Pictures & Television
Game Development
Graphic Design

Careers with Animation and Visual Effects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a diverse range of roles within the global entertainment industry. The university has a strong track record of alumni success, with former students securing positions at major organisations such as Disney Theatrical Group and Warner Bros. Discovery. Potential career paths include:

Character Animator
Visual Effects Artist
Technical Director
Compositor
3D Modeller
Storyboard Artist
Art Director

The focus on building a professional portfolio throughout the course ensures that students can demonstrate their unique perspective and technical skills to top-tier employers immediately upon graduation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Computer Graphics for Animation

3D Production

Cinematics for Animation and VFX

Animation Principles and Techniques

Node-Based Compositing

Digital Drawing

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Graphic Design Game Design Animation View 260 other Bachelors in Game Design in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Official high school transcripts and diploma.

College transcripts (if applicable) must show the classes/subjects, grades, credits, and number of hours completed for each class.

Pay the Registration Fee.

Pay the $150 Application Fee.

Pay the International Student Services Fee.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

40368 USD / year

≈ 40368 USD / year
Out-of-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

31224 USD / year

≈ 31224 USD / year

Additional Details

Undergraduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,239/unit – 3 units per class

Undergraduate Tuition (International Students): $1,463/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Animation and Visual Effects.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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