Animation Areas of Emphasis

Animation offers a range of creative pathways, each with its own focus and techniques. 2D animation emphasizes hand-drawn or digitally illustrated visuals, bringing characters and scenes to life through frame-by-frame artistry and stylized motion. 3D animation, on the other hand, uses computer-generated models and environments to create depth, realism, and dynamic camera movement often seen in films and games.

Storytelling centers on narrative development, character arcs, and emotional engagement, ensuring that animation communicates compelling ideas beyond visuals alone. Meanwhile, motion design focuses on graphic elements in motion, such as typography, shapes, and branding, which is commonly used in advertising, user interfaces, and multimedia content to convey information in visually engaging ways. 

2D Animation Emphasis

Artwork by Lili Chazen

The 2D Animation emphasis offers a structured, hands-on sequence that develops skills in character performance, visual development, expressive movement, and stylized world-building across hand-drawn and digital techniques. Students progress from foundational observation and design to advanced visual development.

View the 2D Animation Curriculum

3D Animation Emphasis

Artwork by Troi Boyer

The 3D Animation emphasis trains students through an advanced, hands-on sequence focused on character performance, digital sculpting, lighting and rendering, and integrating CG animation with live-action. Students progress from performance-based animation to high-level production workflows, preparing for careers in feature animation, VFX, television, and games.

View the 3D Animation Curriculum

Motion Design Emphasis

Artwork by Lili Chazen

The Motion Design emphasis equips students with a structured, hands-on pathway into time-based visual communication, combining typography, 2D and 3D animation, motion graphics, and visual effects. Students progress from foundational typographic animation to advanced motion systems, preparing for careers in broadcast design, advertising, digital media, and entertainment.

View the Motion Design Curriculum

Story Emphasis

Artwork by Chiara Lawrence

The Story emphasis guides students through a structured, hands-on sequence that builds skills in narrative creation, visual storytelling, cinematic design, and creative production. Students progress from screenwriting to animatics and advanced cinematic storytelling, preparing to specialize in story development as a distinct practice within animation.

View the Story Curriculum

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