Photo by Sebastian Svenson on Unsplash
Animation is an ever-evolving realm of creativity and innovation. As the demand for skilled animators continues, online animation schools have become instrumental in providing accessible and comprehensive education.
The best online animation courses are affordable and allow students to work around their schedules. This allows them to study in their spare time while still working full-time.
Moreover, online learning of a visual nature benefits students with short attention spans. Studies show that learners absorb information better through animated videos.
Flexible Schedule
Whether you’re a full-time professional or an aspiring student looking to improve your skills, online animation courses offer the necessary flexibility. You can take your classes from the comfort of your home or any other location with a reliable internet connection, and you’ll have access to the same resources as on-campus students.
Online degrees in animation focus on the skills required for computer-generated (CG) and traditional hand-drawn animation. The curriculum for these programs explores methods of animating three-dimensional characters and the principles and techniques for geometric modeling and character rigging.
Other schools offer an online Computer Animation degree that helps students learn how to develop visual content for games, movies, and the web. The program includes classes in subjects like drawing, composition, and human anatomy, as well as advanced software training for animation.
Online animation schools with a comprehensive curriculum cover a spectrum of animation techniques, from traditional 2D animation to cutting-edge 3D animation. A well-rounded program should include character design, storyboarding, rigging, and animation software proficiency courses.
Access to Tutors
Online animation programs follow a curriculum similar to that of their brick-and-mortar counterparts, but they offer more flexibility for students who are also working professionals. Many accelerated programs can be completed in two to four years of full-time study.
An online tutor can keep you engaged and motivated while studying animation. They may introduce various learning methods, such as videos, songs, and diagrams, to make their lessons more engaging. This is important because animators must have a strong work ethic and focus to succeed at their jobs. Your tutor can help you develop these skills to be a productive and successful artist.
Online animation schools often include a portfolio component, where students create a compilation of their best work that they can use to apply for jobs at animation studios. Tutors can help their students with this process by providing feedback and helping them to improve their portfolios.
Industry-Supported Resources
Animated tutorials and videos are an excellent fit for eLearning as they can be delivered in various formats for different learning objectives and age groups. Young people, in particular, thrive when multiple teaching mediums and styles are employed. Visuals convey information more effectively than written text and provoke emotions that help learners retain critical concepts.
Many online animation schools feature a virtual student community where students can interact with each other and their teachers. They can also participate in live weekly training sessions and get support from industry professional mentors. This type of support helps students build a solid portfolio that they can use to find employment.
A strong portfolio is essential for animators entering the workforce. Online animation schools that provide guidance on portfolio development, critique sessions, and advice on presenting work effectively empower students to showcase their skills and creativity to potential employers.
Online courses are often much more affordable than enrolling in a traditional art college. This means more students can take classes and discover whether this career path is right for them without making significant financial commitments upfront.
Despite the flexibility of online learning, there are still some barriers to becoming an animator. For example, working on a major motion picture requires experience and technical know-how that may take time to learn in the classroom. However, some colleges know these limitations and offer internship programs where students can work on real-world projects in their field of interest.
Industry-Recognized Credentials
While a degree may seem like just a piece of paper to some, it provides evidence of the time and money you put into your education. It also shows employers that you’re serious about your career in animation and have the credentials to prove it.
Some online universities are accredited by nationally recognized accrediting bodies, which adds weight to the degree. This makes it more likely that you will find a job after graduating with an online degree in animation.
Online classes are accessible wherever you have an internet connection, which gives students more control over their learning experience. You can schedule lessons around your work and life responsibilities if you have a part-time job or other commitments. You can even do 3D animation courses on a mobile phone!
In addition to classroom instruction, some online animation programs offer practical professional development courses for current animators and aspiring artists. These can help you develop new proficiencies and network with other professionals in the field. You can also connect with a mentor and learn from experienced animators.
