Online Animation Degree
Online Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2D Animation
Online Bachelor of Fine Arts in 3D Animation
ONLine Animation Degree PROGRAM OVERVIEW
As an online animation degree student, you’ll explore the field of animation at every level. You’ll hone your skills as an animator, from storyboarding to character design, you’ll receive online training that prepares you for the real world of professional animation production. Our animation online degree courses provide students with the kind of attention and support that allows them to blossom as artists while keeping up with industry trends and innovative tools for professionals.
The animation online degree is focused on helping students understand how to use the technical skills and techniques they’ve learned to create original animation and compelling narratives. You’ll not only graduate with an incredible portfolio, you’ll leave RMCAD with the ability to communicate through animation production. Your coursework and robust portfolio reviews at the Sophomore, Junior, and Senior levels, will prepare you to graduate with:
- Your own unique style in 2D or 3D animation techniques
- A professional portfolio
- A comprehensive skill set in the field of animation design
- The confidence to launch your career and meet clients’ needs
- Hands-on experience with real animation design projects
- Awareness of animation trends used in the field today
ONLINE ANIMATION DEGREE PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Motion Studies
Character Design + Turnarounds
Timing + Rhythm
Visual Storytelling
12 Principles of Animation
Storyboarding + Animatics
Observational Drawing + Anatomy
Line of Action
Layout + Production
Drawing + Acting for Animation
STEPS TO ADMISSION
1
Complete your artist meeting with an admissions representative.
2
Submit an admissions application.
3
Create and submit your portfolio to be considered for a scholarship.
4
Submit official high school and college transcripts (for transfer students).
5
Submit the current year’s FAFSA and other financial aid documentation.
ACCREDITATION
TUITION + FINANCIAL AID
At RMCAD, we understand that investing in a college education is a major decision and a major investment. That’s why we offer competitive, affordable tuition when compared to other art and design colleges. Students’ tuition rates are locked in at the time of their initial start date and will not increase as long as they remain enrolled in their program.
Online AnIMATION DEGREE COURSE DETAILS
Our animation degree online program with an emphasis in 2D Animation or 3D Animation is focused on helping students develop their unique, artistic voice. You’ll learn essential 2D or 3D animation techniques and tools while you collaborate with talented artists from all walks of life while learning from faculty with direct and deep experience in the animation industry.
Animation Courses (21 Credits for 2D, 18 Credits for 3D)*
Digital Painting for Film + Games
(3 Credits)
AG 1110
Introduction to Animated Storytelling
(3 Credits)
AN 2310
Creative Visualization
(3 Credits)
AN 3760
Tools + Techniques of Contemporary Animation
(3 Credits)
*This section does not include the full list of courses for this program.
2D Animation Track (24 Credits)*
AN2D 1390
Drawing + Acting for Animation
(3 Credits)
AN2D 3230
Character Animation + Motion Studies
(3 Credits)
AN2D 3360
Animation Layout + Production
(3 Credits)
AN2D 3520
2D Computer Animation I
(3 Credits)
*This section does not include the full list of courses for this program.
3D Animation Track (27 Credits)*
AN3D 1210
3D Computer Fundamentals
(3 Credits)
AN3D 2320
3D Computer Lighting + Materials
(3 Credits)
AN3D 3230
3D Computer Animation Motion Studies
(3 Credits)
AN3D 3330
3D Character + Production Design
(3 Credits)
*This section does not include the full list of courses for this program.
Liberal Arts Courses (45 Credits)*
AH 1110
Art Historical Methods + Theories
(3 Credits)
EN 1110
Composition I
(3 Credits)
HU 1110
Humanities I: World Thought I
(3 Credits)
MA 1221
The Art of Math
(3 Credits)
The Liberal Arts curriculum is an exciting part of every student’s academic and creative journey at RMCAD. These courses provide the opportunity for students to engage with complex questions and ideas to develop critical thinking skills, a global consciousness, and awareness of art historical foundations that are essential for their intellectual, creative, and personal growth.
*This section does not include the full list of courses for this program.
Foundations Courses (15 Credits)*
FD 1020
2D Design: Elements + Principles
(3 Credits)
FD 1120
Topics in Color
(3 Credits)
FD 1600
Studio Seminar: Methods of Inquiry
(3 Credits)
FD 2220
Time-based Media
(3 Credits)
Foundation Studies educates students in the development of creative studio practice by fostering individualized and collaborative learning that emphasizes cultural engagement, process, critical thinking, and visual literacy.
*This section does not include the full list of courses for this program.
Studio Electives (9 Credits)
AG 3590
Special Topics
(3 Credits)
AG 3840
Experimental Animation
(3 Credits)
AN 2320
The Art of Villainy
(3 Credits)
AN 2335
Worldbuilding
(3 Credits)
*This section does not include the full list of courses available as elective for this program.
TECH + TOOLS
In the world of animation production, the most important tools you will need are your imagination, creativity, and a solid foundation of the fundamentals of motion. Where RMCAD’s 2D and 3D programs both begin with exploring the 12 principles of animation through a series of motion study classes, each program will progress to more specialized methods.
Our 2D animation program focuses on traditional and digital drawing techniques in software such as Toon Boom Harmony and Storyboard Pro, while our 3D animation program incorporates 3D techniques to animate through software such as Autodesk Maya.
Whether you choose the 2D or 3D track, you will develop a knowledge of how to incorporate the 12 principles of animation into your own original creative scenes and shorts.
- Adobe Creative Cloud including Photoshop
- Autodesk Maya
- Toon Boom Harmony
- Storyboard Pro
All animation online degree students also receive software licensing, a LinkedIn Learning subscription, LMS access, electronic library resources, cybersecurity, mental health counseling, and tutoring services through their semester fees.
GET TO KNOW OUR GRADS
Animation Stories
Creating Iconic Props in Animation: The Devil’s in the Details
Creating a robust and memorable visual experience through animation requires strong character development and visual storytelling that is well-supported by deep, engaging world-building. The world presented in an animated project may seem fantastical or ordinary, but it
Disney Director and Oscar Nominee to speak at RMCAD’s Student Animation and Game Art Festival
(LAKEWOOD, COLORADO) – John Musker, acclaimed director of “Moana,” “Hercules,” “Aladdin,” “The Princess and the Frog,” and “The Little Mermaid,” is joining this year’s Frames + Games Festival on Thursday, April 24, and Friday, April
Stop Motion Revival: Why This Classic Technique Is Thriving in Modern Animation
Stop animation, the art of creating videos from the small movements of still objects, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. While many might consider the advancements in digital animation technology to
Animation CAREERS
Are you ready to become an animator? RMCAD’s Animation Degree helps equip you for success in the following roles.
Animator
An animator creates visual sequences that bring characters, objects, or scenes to life creating keyframes and in between frames using various techniques. Their work is typically seen in films, television shows, video games, advertisements, and digital platforms.
Lead Animator
A senior animator who will lead a team of animators. Their role is mentorship, as well as ensuring there is a standard of consistency and quality throughout the animation sequences.
In-Betweener
These roles are usually entry level positions, where you will flesh out the in-betweens of a lead animator’s scenes using their keyframes for reference.
Clean-Up Artist
This artist will refine the rough animation of the animators by adding in additional details. They will smooth out lines and correct inconsistencies in the animation.
Layout Artist
These artists will define camera angles, shots, staging and the composition of the scenes based on the provided storyboards
Storyboard Artist
A story artist plays a crucial role in shaping the visual narrative of animated films, TV shows, and other visual media by creating storyboards—visual representations of the script that map out each scene. These boards are then turned into animatics.
3D Artist
A 3D artist creates three-dimensional visual content for various media, including video games, films, animations, architecture, product design, and virtual reality.
Character Designer
These artists will design and develop the appearance of the characters in the animation, ensuring the character is built specifically for animation and the actions they need to preform, which will be found in the script.
Motion Graphics Artist
A motion graphics artist creates animated visual content that combines graphic design, animation, and cinematography to communicate messages or tell stories.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the focus of the Online Animation Degree Program at RMCAD?
The program emphasizes 2D and 3D animation skills, covering everything from motion studies, character design, storyboarding, animatics and final animation production, with a focus on industry trends and innovative tools.
What career opportunities are available for Online Animation graduates?
Graduates will acquire the knowledge and skills to start careers as animators, character designers and storyboard artists, in various entertainment and media industries.
How are online courses delivered in the Animation program?
Online courses are delivered through an interactive platform that includes video lectures, assignments, peer reviews, and direct communication with instructors.
What skills will students learn in the Online Animation Program?
Students will learn character design, storyboarding, observational drawing, and animation fundamentals.
What are the technical requirements for the Online Animation program?
Students need a computer that meets RMCAD’s specifications, reliable internet access, and software such as Adobe Creative Suite and Autodesk Maya. For more information on program materials, visit here.
What support services are available for Online Animation students?
All students receive software licensing, a LinkedIn Learning subscription, LMS access, electronic library resources, cybersecurity, mental health counseling, and tutoring services through their semester fees.
What are the admission requirements for the Online Animation Degree Program?
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of the college’s application process. To be considered for a scholarship, students will also need to create and submit a portfolio of artwork.
What kind of portfolio should students submit for the Online Animation Program application?
A portfolio showcasing your best work, including examples of motion studies, short scenes or films, character turnarounds, layout design and more.
How does RMCAD ensure the quality of online education?
RMCAD ensures quality through experienced faculty, regular curriculum updates, and interactive, hands-on coursework designed for online delivery.
Are there any opportunities for online students to collaborate on projects?
Yes, online students can collaborate on projects through virtual classrooms, group assignments, and online forums.
What are the advantages of studying Animation online at RMCAD?
Advantages include flexible scheduling, access to industry-standard tools, feedback from instructors, and the ability to study from anywhere.
What software and tools are used in the Online Animation program?
Students use software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, Toon Boom Harmony and other industry-standard animation tools. For more information on program materials, visit here.
What are the Liberal Arts requirements in the Online Animation Program?
The curriculum includes courses that develop critical thinking, global consciousness, and information literacy.
What are the Foundations requirements in Online Animation Program?
Foundation courses enable students to refine essential skills, get comfortable with the tools they’ll use throughout their program, and study relevant basics— including drawing, composition and color theory. These courses facilitate ideation and collaboration.
Can online students participate in RMCAD's campus events?
Yes, online students are welcome to participate in campus events, exhibitions, and graduation ceremonies. Virtual events are also available to those who do not live locally. For more information on events, please visit RMCAD’s events calendar.
How do online students showcase their work?
Online students can showcase their work through virtual galleries, online exhibitions, and by creating professional portfolios.
What makes RMCAD's Online Animation Program unique?
The combination of traditional and cutting-edge animation techniques, individualized support, and a focus on visual storytelling and character development sets RMCAD’s program apart.
