| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
| 2025-01-15 | - |
Program Overview
Led by renowned faculty from the industry, the program prepares students for careers in animation, game development, and visual effects. Graduates have gained employment at leading studios such as DreamWorks Animation and Walt Disney Animation Studios, and international students benefit from a STEM designation that extends their post-graduation stay in the United States.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Arts in Animation program offers a blend of artistic and technical training preparing students for careers in 3D character animation, traditional animation, storyboarding, computer game art, motion graphics, and visual effects animation. The program provides a wide range of courses in traditional animation (hand-drawn, stop motion, and hybrid), 3D animation and modeling, character design, storyboarding, game art, motion graphics, VFX animation, as well as courses in screenwriting, editing, sound, directing, and game development. Students can choose from five concentrations: Motion Graphics, Storyboarding and Character Design, Technical Artist, Traditional Animation, and 3D Animation.
Teaching:
DePaul University boasts one of the largest full-time Animation faculties in the country. The faculty comes from diverse backgrounds in feature and TV animation, commercial production, game development, motion graphics, CGI, and art exhibition. They have worked at major animation and game studios including: Disney Feature Animation, Fox TV, Fox Kids, JibJab, Will Vinton, Sesame Street, NBC Studios, Nickelodeon, Calabash, Rough Draft, WMS, RoboModo, Wideload, and Day 1, and have exhibited internationally at galleries and film festivals.
Careers:
Alumni of the program have been hired in animation roles at a variety of companies, including DreamWorks Animation, LAIKA Studios, Warner Bros. Animation, Blizzard Entertainment, Bioware, Iron Galaxy Studios, The Mill, Nickelodeon Animation Studios, ShadowMachine, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Electronic Arts, and Cartoon Network.
Other:
The MA in Animation is a STEM-designated program for international students, allowing them to extend their post-graduation stay in the United States. Students have access to the latest in animation software, tools, and technologies including professional-level animation and effects software, Cintiq labs, 3D printing, stop motion stages and fabrication studios, 3D motion capture, motion control, and sophisticated sound studios. Students can also take advantage of DePaul's LA Quarter program, which allows them to study and intern in Los Angeles for three months. The program also offers a Visiting Artists Series that brings innovative practitioners and industry leaders to the campus for film screenings, on-stage conversations, and professional panels. The annual Premiere Film Festival showcases the best of student work in cinema and animation with awards covering all facets of filmmaking, from screenwriting to post production.
DePaul University
Overview:
DePaul University is a private Catholic university located in Chicago, Illinois. It is known for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to community engagement. DePaul offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 10 colleges and schools.
Services Offered:
DePaul University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Resources:
Academic calendar, catalog, success programs, email, OneDePaul portal, Campus Connect, DePaul Central, Desire2Learn (D2L), and library.Campus Resources:
Campus security, bookstore, campus maps, and events calendar.University Resources:
Directory, athletics, employment opportunities, Sites A-Z, and technology help desk.Student Life and Campus Experience:
DePaul University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students.
Student Organizations:
Students can participate in a wide variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities.Housing:
DePaul provides on-campus housing options for students, with a high percentage of freshmen living on campus.Campus Tours:
Virtual campus tours are available to explore the Lincoln Park and Loop campuses.Student Orientation:
Orientation programs are offered to help students transition to DePaul.Career Center:
The career center provides resources and support for students seeking internships and jobs.Athletics:
DePaul has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in NCAA Division I.Art Museum:
The university houses an art museum that showcases a diverse collection of art.Key Reasons to Study There:
Nationally Respected Programs:
DePaul is recognized for its high-quality academic programs, including its entrepreneurship program, which is ranked among the top 10 in the US.Diverse Student Body:
DePaul has a diverse student population, representing a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives.Chicago Location:
DePaul's location in Chicago provides students with access to a vibrant city with numerous cultural, educational, and professional opportunities.Community Engagement:
DePaul encourages students to engage in community service and make a positive impact on the city.Academic Programs:
DePaul University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
