What Degree Do You Need to Be an Animator?

Do you have a love for cartoons and movies? Are you constantly doodling characters and scenes in your free time? The animation might be the perfect career for you! You don’t necessarily need an academic degree to start your freelance animation business. You’ll have to practice a lot to become an expert, but if you’re considering getting a degree, what degree do you need to be an animator? And how can you make your animation dreams a reality? Keep reading to find out.

What are the different types of academic degrees that can lead to a freelance animator career?

For those looking to pursue a career in freelance animation, there are different types of academic degrees that can help pave the way. Perhaps the most obvious choice is to attend college or university and major in animation. However, depending on the school, the animation program might be part of a more extensive fine arts department. Another option is to attend an art school or institute with a specific animation program. Finally, many online courses and programs offer animation training. While not as traditional as college, these can still be valuable resources for those hoping to break into the field of freelance animation.

What is the best program for someone who wants to become a freelance animator?

There’s no one-fits-all answer to this question – the best program for someone who wants to become a freelance animator depends on their individual goals and needs. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a program:

• First, it’s essential to ensure that the program offers a solid foundation in the principles of animation. This will give you the technical skills you need to create high-quality animations. 
• Second, choosing a program that provides ample opportunities to build a portfolio is crucial. This will be important when you’re trying to land clients as a freelancer. 
• Finally, choosing a program that offers flexibility and customization is a good idea. This way, you can tailor your education to your specific goals and needs.

How long does it take to complete an animation degree program?

The answer is actually quite complicated because there are many different types of animation degree programs, and they are not all the same. For example, a two-year Associate’s degree program will take less time to complete than a four-year Bachelor’s degree program. And animation learning candidates can complete a certificate program in as little as six months. So, the answer to the question really depends on what type of animation degree program you are interested in. But one thing is for sure; if you want to become a professional animator, you will need to put in the time and effort to get a quality education.

What jobs will be available after you graduate with an animation degree?

Freelance jobs:

Freelance animating can be a great way to get your feet wet in the industry and build up your portfolio. It can be a great way to make some extra money on the side or even become your primary source of income. Finding freelance animation jobs and getting different kinds of projects done is easy. This way, you will find the balance between work and life and enjoy it.

9-5 jobs: 

Plenty of options are available if you’re looking for a more stable 9-5 job. You could work for a company that produces animated content or as an animator for a video game development studio. You could even find work as an educator, teaching animation to students of all ages.

Independent animation making: 

Of course, you’re not limited to working for someone else. With an animation degree, you could strike out on your own and create your independent animated projects. This can be a great way to express your creativity and tell the stories that you’re passionate about. However, it’s important to remember that this path requires much hard work and dedication.

See also: freelance graphic design jobs

Will you need additional training or certification once I graduate from an animation degree program?

Once you graduate from an animation degree program, you might think you’re all set to begin your career in animation. However, the learning path for an animator never really ends. Throughout your career, you will need to keep up with the latest software and techniques, which means continual training and education. Here are four reasons why additional training or certification may be necessary after you graduate from an animation degree program.

1. The software and techniques used in animation are constantly changing. In order to stay ahead of the curve, you need to be willing to invest in ongoing training. Otherwise, you run the risk of becoming outdated and obsolete.
2. As an animator, you are always learning new things. Even if you think you know everything there is to know about animation, there is always something new to learn. Whether a new software program or a new technique, staying open to learning new things will help you progress in your career.
3. Animation is a complex field, and it takes a lot of hard work to become successful. To reach your area’s top, you must be willing to do extra work and continually strive to improve your skills. For example, many employers would like to hire freelance 3D animators.
4. Competition in the field of animation is fierce. To stand out from the crowd, you need to be able to offer potential employers something that they can’t find elsewhere. Whether it’s a unique skill set or experience with a particular software program, being able to provide something special will give you a leg up on the competition.

Additional training or certification may not be required immediately after graduation, but it will help you further your career. So if you’re serious about becoming a successful animator, don’t forget that the learning path doesn’t end when you receive your diploma.

Last but not least

So, what degree do you need to be an animator? The answer may surprise you. Many paths can lead to a career in animation. No matter which route you choose, ensure your program is accredited and has a good reputation. Do your research and ask around to find the best school for you. Animation is a fun and rewarding field, so don’t hesitate to jump in with both feet and start learning! Have you ever considered becoming an animator? What questions do you still have about this career field? Let us know in the comments below.