Animation and digital design, like most special skills, have evolved over time. What used to be an expertise rooted solely in traditional artistic talents has progressed to require knowledge of advanced computer technology. Luckily, students have opportunities to learn and master the craft right here in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) in Okmulgee offers a 100% online Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS) in the subject.
“The 3D modeling and animation program at OSUIT is more than just an education – it’s a launch pad for creative careers,” says Heather Ortiz, Ed.D., the interim dean of the OSUIT School of Creative and Information Technologies. “By blending hands-on learning with industry-driven curriculum, our students graduate with the skills, experience and professional connections to make an immediate impact on fields like animation, game design and visual effects. At OSU Polytech, we don’t just teach; we prepare innovators and storytellers for the future.”
The 79-credit-hour, two-year program is designed to provide a deep immersion into the subject, and is built specifically around industry needs. Perks include small class sizes, cutting-edge software and hands-on training that allows for personalized instruction.
“Obtaining an AAS degree in 3D modeling and animation from OSUIT is … about mastering the art of visual storytelling, refining technical skills and building a portfolio that speaks to industry standards,” says instructor Tony Galindo.
Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) currently offers an in-class AAS degree in Digital Media Design, and the college is in the process of building a focused certificate just for animation.
“This skill set involves being able to plan; understanding arcs, timing and spacing; when to apply squash and stretch; and the anticipation or overlapping of action,” says Chloe Elimam, a professor of Digital Media Design and 3D Art. “We currently offer courses that focus on the pipeline of creating an animation. In Fundamentals of Digital Drawing and Design, students learn design principles to create characters, worlds and storyboards, and color scripts for an animation using digital drawing tools and software. Students have used the Applied Animation course to expand their knowledge on that subject, working with industry standard tools to practice 3D modeling and texturing.”
The door is wide open for potential designers – all you need is curiosity and determination.
“If you’re interested in animation, absorb as much as you can about it,” says Elimam. “Learn the names and careers of some of the most influential animators of our time, watch everything, and watch it again to pay attention to the motion and the acting, specifically. Listen to interviews, attend workshops, draw in your sketchbook, look for motion in the real world and start to develop your eye as an artist. Be inspired and recreate it.”
Career Options in Animation
“The career options for someone with training in animation include being a 2D/3D animator, motion graphics designer, character designer, environment designer, art director, storyboard artist, background colorist, color script artist, visual effects artist, visual development artist or a concept artist,” says Elimam.
OSUIT’s curriculum equips students with real-world skills applicable to careers in illustration, film, architecture, product modeling, special effects, pre-visualization and environmental design, says Galindo.
“Through hands-on projects, real-world internships and expert guidance, students graduate with the confidence and experience to step into animation, game design, digital media and more.”
