Overview

The Visual Development programme at Academy of Art University provides students with the advanced technical and conceptual skills required to excel in the competitive world of entertainment design. This master-level course focuses on the creation of immersive worlds, compelling characters, and atmospheric environments for film, television, and gaming. Students work alongside industry professionals to refine their artistic voice and professional output.

Why Visual Development at Academy of Art University?

Academy of Art University offers a unique environment where creativity is supported by professional-grade facilities and expert instruction. Students benefit from a "no barriers" approach to education, allowing them to focus entirely on their craft. The institution provides access to specialised studios, including painting and sculpture centres, ensuring that every student can experiment with diverse media. Collaborations with industry clients and a focus on real-world technology ensure that graduates are prepared for the demands of modern production pipelines.

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 is designed to build a comprehensive professional portfolio. Modules may include:

Visual Development
Anatomy
Character Design
Environment Design
Storyboarding
Digital Painting
Composition
Lighting & Colour Theory
Portfolio Preparation

Careers with Visual Development

Graduates from this programme are highly sought after by leading studios in the entertainment sector. Alumni have successfully secured roles at major organisations such as Disney Theatrical Group and Warner Bros. Discovery. The training prepares students for various creative positions, including:

Visual Development Artist
Character Designer
Environment Artist
Technical Designer
Art Director
Concept Illustrator

The focus on practical skills and industry-standard portfolios ensures that students can transition smoothly into professional roles within animation, live-action film, and game development.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Figurative Concepts

Color Theory

History of Visual Development

Head Drawing

Clothed Figure Drawing

Perspective for Characters & Environment

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

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Art History View 203 other Masters in Art History in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

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.
Resume
Portfolio

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.

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Visual Development.

Available Scholarships

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

Visual Development

About

On this page