About this Major

The major begins with an introduction to design fundamentals, which provides students with the foundational knowledge necessary to create engaging and visually appealing animations. Students will learn color theory, composition, typography, and design elements.

The program then moves on to Animation Techniques, where students will use Toon Boom Harmony, software industry professionals use worldwide. Students will learn how to use Toon Boom Harmony to create 2D animations, including character animations. They will also learn about the various tools and features available in the software, including vector drawing tools, rigging, and timeline animation.

After mastering the fundamentals of 2D animation, students will progress to learning the basics of 3D modeling and animation, as well as motion graphics. Additionally, they will enhance their brainstorming, ideation, and concept development abilities to generate inventive and unique ideas for their animations.

In the production of 2D animations, students will be guided in pre-production planning, storyboarding, character design, and advanced animation techniques. Students will also create a portfolio of their work to showcase their skills and creativity to potential employers or assist them with entrance into universities or art schools that offer programs in animation or related fields.

Licensures/Certifications

  • Adobe Certified Professional in Graphic Design & Illustrator using Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design using Photoshop
  • Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Effects & Motion Graphics using Adobe After Effects
  • Autodesk Certified User: Maya
  • Toon Boom Harmony Premium Associate Certification

At A Glance

Open To

High school juniors and seniors, adult students

Campus

Danforth

Total Hours Required

960

Length

  • Full-time: 10 months of instruction
  • Part-time: 20 months of instruction
  • Program length may vary based on progress rate and/or summer school attendance

Times

Daytime classes, Monday — Friday

  • 8:10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.
  • 12:30 p.m. to 3:35 p.m.
  • High school students and part-time adults enroll in either AM or PM session. Full-time adult students enroll in both sessions.

Courses

  • Graphic Design 120 hours
  • Animation Techniques 120 hours
  • 3D Modeling & Animation 120 hours
  • Motion Media Design 120 hours
  • Creative Design and Concept Development 120 hours
  • Advanced 2D Animation 120 hours
  • 2D Animation Production 120 hours
  • Interactive Media Capstone 120 hours

Tuition & Costs

Costs for High School Students

Licensure / Certifications

  • Adobe Certified Professional in Graphic Design & Illustrator using Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design using Photoshop
  • Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Effects & Motion Graphics using Adobe After Effects
  • Autodesk Certified User: Maya
  • Toon Boom Harmony Premium Associate Certification

Tuition & Fees

  • N/A

Textbooks, Supplies, and Certifications (Estimated)

  • N/A

Total Estimated Costs for High School Students

No Cost

Costs for In-State Adult Students

Costs for Out-of-State Adult Students

Employment & Outcomes

Salary Range

$10 - $20

per hour

Pass Rate

New Major

Pass Rate

Employment Opportunities

Graduates of this program are qualified to work for:

Animation studios, game development studios, advertising agencies, e-learning companies, motion graphics studios, social media marketing agencies, self-employment

2D animation major photo