Animation has transformed the way we experience and interact with movies, television, video games, the internet, and our mobile devices. In turn, digital technology has transformed the medium of animation. The tools of production are becoming increasingly accessible and sophisticated, and the channels of distribution are multiplying to meet a swelling demand for animated content.
Philadelphia University has created the Bachelor of Science in Digital Animation to address the needs of this growing industry. The program offers students a thorough understanding of the fundamentals while introducing them to cutting-edge tools and techniques. Successful graduates of the program will be equipped to take leading creative roles in the industry.

First-year students are quickly immersed in the Philadelphia University design community, taking foundation classes with graphic designers, digital designers, fashion designers, and architects. In their second year, students begin their studies in animation with introductory courses in animation production and storytelling. They also continue to improve their design and communication skills with advanced foundation classes covering typography, hierarchy, and image-making.

One focus for third-year students is basic 3D filmmaking. Using industry standard software, students learn to design, model, and animate compelling 3D characters and environments. They also use 3D imagery as an element in their study of motion graphics, combining them with type, video, and 2D imagery to create uniquely designed visual narratives. Both areas of study are infused with a thorough understanding of the principles of animation design and regular screenings of historic and contemporary examples.

Several electives allow students to focus on an area of particular interest, including animation history, compositing, and animation for gaming and interactivity. Additionally, students are encouraged to supplement their education by taking advantage of available internships, design job fairs, study abroad opportunities, and memberships in professional organizations.
Students in their final year continue in their advanced 3D and 2D studies as they plan and implement a short film. This film, which encompasses every phase of production, serves as the capstone to their animation education. At the end of the year, students publicly exhibit their film alongside the work of their fellow design colleagues.
The Bachelor of Science in Digital Animation combines a relevant education for this evolving medium with additional studies that integrate this learning into other aspects of contemporary culture and the needs of the modern marketplace.
Digital Design

Sherman Finch »
Interim Director, Masters Science in Digital Design
Associate Professor, Undergraduate + Graduate Digital Design
215-951-2913
finchs@PhilaU.edu

Universities and Colleges offering Digital Animation