Animation, A.S.

Contact Information

Program Requirements

Typical Program

Degree/Certificate:   Associate in Science
HEGIS Code:           5012
SUNY Code:            11683
Major Code:            ANI

The Career

The Animation curriculum of our SUNY Niagara Associates Program is designed to provide students with the essential skills necessary to contribute to the digital 2D and 3D animation profession through the use of the latest industry standard digital tools and software of the film, broadcast, commercial and gaming industries. 

Additionally, these foundations serve as a base for future growth and specialization in the animation field.

Our graduates have transferred to four-year institutions including:

• Daemen University
• SUNY College at Fredonia
• Alfred State University
• Rochester Institute of Technology
• Syracuse University
• Savannah College of Art and Design
• Villa Maria College

The Animation program at SUNY Niagara has a liberal arts framework with targeted attention given to:

• Traditional foundational art skills
• Fluency in critiquing and discussing the traditional visual arts as well as animation
• An understanding of animation software and digital equipment related to the field
• Creative and innovative storytelling strategies and techniques
• Classroom and workplace etiquette
• Emphasis on the importance of life-long learning
• Confident problem-solving and researching abilities

The SUNY Niagara Approach

Focus is placed on the traditional principles of animation, as first devised by Disney Animation Studios.  Students will bridge the traditional with the digital, in their Two-Dimensional (2D) Animation courses as well as their Three-Dimensional (3D) courses.  Students will learn how to transfer their traditional animation skills to the computer, using the latest cutting-edge 2D and 3D computer animation software, equipment and hardware.  As the student becomes more sophisticated, so will the challenges laid out in progressive projects and courses.

Admission

Students admitted fall and spring.

Program Mission Statement

The mission of the SUNY Niagara Animation program is to prepare students from diverse backgrounds for transfer to an accredited baccalaureate animation program while also introducing them to animation studio culture. Offering an A.S. in Animation is in keeping with this mission and furthers the SUNY Niagara commitment to providing a teaching and learning environment dedicated to excellence.

Program Goals and Objectives 

• To prepare graduates for transfer into baccalaureate programs in animation
• To assure that graduates meet seven of the ten SUNY General Education goals with 30 credits

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Animation program, the student will:  (NASAD approved guidelines for animation October 2012)

• Demonstrate knowledge and skills in the use of basic principles, concepts, tools, techniques, procedures, and technologies sufficient to produce animation art from concept to a finished product that communicates ideas and/or stories to a viewer or an audience.  This includes, but is not limited to the ability to use the competencies listed in items listed below in professional contexts as appropriate to the needs of specific projects.
• Employ the principles of animation, including its visual, spatial, sound, motion, and temporal elements and features, and how these elements are combined in the development of animation art.
• Differentiate between narrative, non-narrative, and other information/language structures (linear, non-linear, thematic, cinematic, interactive, etc.) to organize content in time-based media.
• Assemble concepts and processes for the development, coordination, and completion of animation art (examples include, but are not limited to concept, visual, and character development; the use of scenarios and personas; and storyboarding, color studies, and style sheets).
• Develop the characteristics and capabilities of various animation methods and technologies in creative and project development contexts (examples include, but are not limited to traditional animation, 2D Digital, 3D Digital, etc.).
• Define the history of animation, its artistic and technological evolution, and an understanding of basis aesthetic principles
• Acquire collaboration and communication skills within team projects