Overview

The Animation and Visual Effects programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a comprehensive platform to master the technical and artistic demands of the modern entertainment industry. This advanced curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional production environments.

Why Animation and Visual Effects at Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University distinguishes itself through a faculty composed of working professionals who bring real-world expertise directly into the studio. The institution provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, including specialised equipment labs and dedicated production spaces that mirror industry standards.

Students benefit from a "no barriers" educational philosophy, which prioritises talent and dedication over traditional standardised testing. The university’s strong links to major studios and its location in a global creative hub offer unique opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33426 per year
National fee: USD 26586 per year
Local fee: USD 26586 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on technical mastery and creative storytelling across various digital mediums. Modules may include:

Animation
Visual Effects
Game Design
Visual Arts
Generative AI
Visual Development
Sound Design for Visual Media
Motion Pictures

Careers with Animation and Visual Effects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global entertainment and media sectors. The training provided enables students to pursue careers in major film studios, gaming companies, and advertising agencies. Alumni have successfully secured positions at world-renowned organisations, including Disney Theatrical Group, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Lincoln Motor Company.

The focus on building a professional portfolio ensures that graduates can demonstrate their skills to employers immediately. Common career paths include roles as technical designers, animation managers, and visual effects supervisors within the creative industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Gesture & Quick Sketch for Animators

Figurative Concepts

3D Modeling & Animation (Maya)

Storyboarding Principles

Character Animation

Feature Animation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Game Design Animation View 432 other Masters in Visual Arts in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Application form or online application.

$50 application fee.

Official transcripts from your undergraduate college or university showing completion of an undergraduate degree.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33426 USD / year

≈ 33426 USD / year
Out-of-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year

Additional Details

Graduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,407/unit – 3 units per class

Graduate Tuition (International Students): $1,615/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Animation and Visual Effects.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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