Overview

The Animation and Visual Effects programme at Academy of Art University offers students a comprehensive environment to refine their technical skills and creative vision. This master level course is designed to transform passionate artists into industry-ready professionals capable of producing high-quality digital content. By engaging with sophisticated technology and professional workflows, students develop the expertise required for the modern entertainment landscape.

Why Animation and Visual Effects at Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University provides a unique educational setting where classes are taught by working professionals. This ensures that the curriculum remains aligned with current industry demands and real-world technology. The institution is known for its "no barriers" approach, fostering a supportive community that includes veterans and active service members through dedicated military-friendly initiatives.

Students benefit from extensive facilities and a culture that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration. The university's focus on practical experience allows learners to build a professional portfolio that often speaks louder than a traditional résumé. With a campus located in the creative hub of San Francisco, students are positioned at the heart of innovation and artistic excellence.

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 advanced technical mastery and artistic storytelling. Modules may include:

Animation
Visual Effects
Game Art
Visual Development
Artificial Intelligence Design
Stop Motion
3D Modelling
Digital Compositing
Storyboarding

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, contributing to award-winning projects and shaping contemporary culture.

Potential career paths include roles such as:

Technical Designer
Visual Development Artist
Design Manager
3D Animator
Compositing Supervisor

The university's strong links with industry clients and its focus on career-ready work ensure that graduates possess the fundamental skills and unique perspectives sought by top employers like Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Gesture & Quick Sketch for Animators

3D Modeling & Animation (Maya)

Traditional Animation

History & Techniques of Character Animation

Storyboarding for Thesis

3D Character Animation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 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

63 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Game Design Animation View 24 other Masters in Animation 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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