Art Degree (B.A.), Animation Concentration

Dower Computer Studio with three students in front of computers.

Animation Concentration: Exploring Storytelling in Motion

The Animation Concentration is a comprehensive 18-credit program designed for Art majors who are passionate about pursuing careers in animation or advancing to graduate studies in the field. This specialized concentration provides students with a solid foundation in both traditional and contemporary animation practices, offering hands-on experience in a variety of techniques. Areas of focus include documentary animation, character animation, stop motion, digitally generated animation, and innovative emerging technologies, ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the industry. Throughout the program, students refine their technical skills, develop their creative voices, and build a deeper understanding of animation as an art form. The experience culminates in a capstone project, where students produce an original animated film and curate a professional portfolio that showcases their artistic vision, storytelling abilities, and technical expertise, setting the stage for future success in the field.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses - 18 credits
  • Hands-on training in diverse animation styles
  • Exposure to emerging technologies shaping the future of animation
  • Development of a polished portfolio showcasing creative and technical skills
  • Internship opportunities both on and off campus
  • Preparation for careers in animation or advanced graduate studies

Ready to Bring Your Stories to Life Through Animation?

Explore the possibilities with our Animation Concentration and take the first step toward a creative future!

Master the Art of Animation: From Classic Techniques to Cutting-Edge Digital Innovation

  • Students in a graphic design class with instructor giving a presentation.

    Skill Development

    Gain expertise in a wide range of animation techniques, including traditional hand-drawn methods, stop motion, and advanced digital animation, providing you with a strong foundation in both classic and modern practices.

  • Student working with a professor in the RIDE Center.

    Creative Exploration with Emerging Technologies

    Gain hands-on experience with the latest tools and technologies shaping the animation industry, preparing you to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving creative landscape.

  • A professor and student review the student’s sketches while seated in an art classroom.

    Capstone Experience and Portfolio Building

    Conclude the program by creating a fully realized animated film and a professional portfolio that highlights your unique artistic vision and technical proficiency, positioning you for success in both professional roles and graduate studies.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Developed capacity for critical, creative, investigative, and conceptual thinking
  • Ability to identify and solve visual and conceptual problems
  • Ability to present and communicate effectively, creatively, and critically across a range of form and media
  • Generate a personal focus and contribute an independent voice to the world
  • Be ready to work as professionals in art education; art history; design; fine arts; illustration and animation
  • Refer to the fullest range of historical and contemporary art and design sources from across cultures and time
  • Apply a wide range of research methods and technologies in gathering and analyzing information
  • Engage effectively in individual and/or collaborative approaches to work

What Can You Do with an Animation Concentration?

An Animation Concentration opens up a wide range of career opportunities and creative paths in the animation industry. With specialized training in various animation techniques, you can pursue roles in both traditional and digital animation fields. Some potential career options include:

  • Animator
  • Character Designer
  • Storyboarding Artist
  • 3D Modeler/Artist
  • Stop Motion Artist:
  • Visual Effects (VFX) Artist
Student working on a MAC computer in a graphic design class.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

For Art majors interested in a career in animation or preparation for graduate study in animation, the Animation Concentration (18 additional credits) offers broad-based training in this field of art. The Animation Concentration exposes students to a wide range of contemporary and conventional techniques. These include documentary animation, character animation, stop motion, digitally generated animation, and other emerging technologies. The concentration culminates in a project consisting of an animated film as well as a portfolio presenting the students' professional and creative work in the field.

Requirements for Art Majors

One of the following:

Note:

** Students completing Art Teacher Licensure Programs must take ART 0108 Introduction to Computer Graphics as their art elective.

Art majors are required to take ART 0106 and ART 0107, to satisfy the Appreciation of the Arts requirement of the common core.

Art majors must complete a minimum of 27 credits of course work within the Art Department at Westfield State. Students are advised to consult their advisors for information on course sequencing and general core requirements.

Art majors intending to pursue graduate work beyond their major are advised to take additionally recommended studio courses of their choice. It is also advisable to include more than the minimum requirements in Art History.

Animation Concentration for Art majors
Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 17:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    Of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Passionate Creators. Creative Educators.

We are proud of the diverse group of professors who make up our Art Department. Our professors hold graduate degrees and are professional practitioners in their fields of study. You’ll learn from their unique perspectives as you develop your own point of view. The one-to-one support you’ll get from our faculty will help you increase your understanding of art, polish your technical skills and help you grow as a person.

Art Department Professor Imo Imeh engages a student in conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

Is a portfolio required?

Yes, if you have requested admission to the art major on your application form, applicants must successfully pass a portfolio review by the Art Department's faculty.

Learn more

Are there scholarships available to art majors?

Several scholarships are available. Learn more on our available scholarships page.

How can I find the Art Department on social media?

You can follow us on several social media platforms below:

Portfolio Review:

If you've requested admission to the Art Major on your application form, applicants must successfully pass a portfolio review by the Art Department’s faculty.

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Art Degree (B.A.), Animation Concentration