Prepare for that Dream Animation Job

by Sarah Clark
Online Degrees Columnist

Animators have enviable jobs - they tell stories, create characters, and use images to sell products and services. They are also talented professionals, having the ability to illustrate and conceive of interesting characters and story ideas.

Animators work for production companies, illustrating all types of characters from talking fish and cars to princesses and magical figures. They are able to draw by hand, in the traditional manner of Disney animator Joe Grant and Japanese legend Hayao Miyazaki. They are also experienced with computer generated image technology, which is used today more than hand-drawn animation by big production studios like Pixar.

Animation Programs

Most animators gain their expertise in animation during a formal postsecondary animation program. They may attend a university or an art school. Programs may last two to fours years depending on the depth of instruction and degree requirements. Bachelor of arts degrees in animation will typically take four years of full-time study.

During your animation program, you'll likely take an introductory course in illustration. You'll also study character development and its relationship to gestures, movement, and color.

You'll also learn how to use computer-generated image technology. Movies like Toy Story have made computer technology indispensable in the animation industry. It's also used in commercial animation to produce television ads and other promotional materials.

As you pursue a degree in animation, you might also complete an internship. Internships prepare students to apply for jobs - they arm them with practical and relevant experience and enhance their portfolio of work.

Pursuing Your Dream Animation Job

Jobs in the field of animation are growing - in fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that within the film entertainment industry, jobs in animation are some of the fastest growing.

But you still need the right credentials to compete for jobs in animation. They are competitive, particularly those with production companies like Pixar, where just a small number of positions are available. There are also smaller production companies that do very interesting work. They may be hired as contractors for a big Hollywood production or they might work on a high-profile advertising campaign.

Pursue your opportunities in the field of animation - start by learning what credentials you need to move forward with an animation career.

About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer specializing in career development and postsecondary education.

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