In this degree, you’ll discover the importance of color and composition and also be introduced to 2D and 3D animating styles and storytelling techniques. Special effects artists and animators create two- and three-dimensional models, images that appear to move, and visual effects for television, movies, video games, and other forms of media. Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports.

Degree Benefits:

  • Learn a variety of skills and techniques that you can apply to your own unique art style and career goals
  • Gain access to internships in advertising, television, film, and more
  • 2D animators make around $50,000 a year and 3D animators make upwards of $55,000

Career Options Include:

  • 3D Modeler or Artist
  • Designer/Illustrator
  • Production Artist/Graphic Designer

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average median salary for Special Effects Artists and Animators in 2020 was $77,700 per year. Graphic Designers average median salary for 2020 was $53,380 per year according to BLS.

Find an online bachelor's or master's degree:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

In most cases, a Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts & Animation degree requires 120 credits. As a full-time student, you can complete 30 credits per year, meaning you would earn your degree over the course of four years. If you are a motivated student, there are a few options available to help you earn your degree sooner.


Some schools have accelerated Media Arts & Animation programs that put students on the fast track to earning their degree. This can reduce the four-year time frame by up to 30%. If an accelerated program is too much to handle, you may be able to benefit from year-round learning. Year-round learning is continuous schooling all year long, with no summer break. This type of education allows you to finish your degree earlier and get started in your career faster. If you took AP courses in high school, you may be able to count them toward your college credits, which can in turn, reduce your time and the costs of schooling.

We consider the choice of major to be an important decision for students when selecting Media Arts & Animation schools or programs. Media Arts & Animation is a broad field, and it has a wide potential for developing specializations and expertise. The student should pause and study the situation carefully. It is important to connect the choice of school with the career goals and employment objectives. Students should be sure that the school is well-equipped to provide high-quality Media Arts & Animation education in the subject areas of greatest interest.


Students must look at the curriculum to determine if the subject will be covered thoroughly and in the areas of study that will be most beneficial.

The two most prominent types of bachelor levels in Media Arts & Animation are: Bachelor of Arts degree (BA degree) and a Bachelor of Science degree (BS degree). A BA degree normally requires pupils to take fewer concentration courses as well as to focus more on discovering about Media Arts & Animation. These students have a little bit more flexibility when it pertains to customizing their education to meet their occupation objectives as well as goals.


The Bachelor of Science degree in Media Arts & Animation, on the other hand, is much less concentrated on exploration and even more targeted to a specific focus. Bachelor of Science students, usually, focus specifically on the area of their major and have a tendency to be more career focused. Bachelor's degrees in the clinical field, for example, are most likely to be a Bachelor of Science degree. You can find some sample classes for a Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts & Animation below:

  • Introduction to Virtual Reality
  • Learning How To Learn for Youth
  • Advanced App Development in Android Capstone
  • Generative Design for Additive Manufacturing
  • Making Your First Virtual Reality Game
  • Conflict and stress management

Currently, students enrolled in four-year universities have less than a 50% chance of graduating within four years. Statistics vary from university to university, but many students are graduating closer to the 6-year range.


If you want to be one of the lucky 40% who do graduate in your fourth year, you'll need to make a few sacrifices. First, you'll have to take more than the minimum 12 credit hours per semester. Take 15 credits per semester, because you'll finish earning the required credits in around four years.


Go to school each summer session. Take at least one class per summer semester. Not only will you be sure to graduate on time, but you may also benefit with lower per-credit tuition charges, as well.


Declare a major as soon as you can. You won't be moving from major to major this way. If you have to work for gas or rent, work for the fewest number of hours per week that you can. Your studies are vital.

A four-year degree in Media Arts & Animation is an investment into your future. The cost of tuition can vary widely depending on the academic excellence of the university and the specific field of study chosen. You can expect tuition for a bachelor's degree in Media Arts & Animation to cost anywhere from $8,000-$72,000 per year. The cost of tuition for online degrees is typically the same cost as on-campus. When talking about costs, it is important to factor in textbooks, technology, as well as room and board, as those costs are separate from tuition. These are average college tuition costs and does not include financial aid. It is important for each and every student to seek out financial aid options to help pay for their college tuition.


The cost of your education is worth every penny, because it is an investment in your future. You may feel that you are investing too much money in a degree but remember that it will all come back to you. Once you get the career that you've been aiming for, you will be to pay off your student loans and live a better life.

Schools can provide valuable assistance for Media Arts & Animation graduates that seek employment after graduation. The programs can be formal, such as job banks and employment centers that present graduating students and graduate credentials to prospective employers and host interviews.


Depending on the college, they may have resources that can enhance employment and career opportunities for their Media Arts & Animation graduates. Most schools have an extended community of alumni, donors, and corporate and business support. Alumni groups offer opportunities for networking as well as for sharing information and experiences. The corporate and business community support may include opportunities for internships or other hands-on learning experiences.