Animation is the illusion of motion created when a sequence of images, each slightly changed from the previous, is viewed in rapid succession.

At DCAD, the animation major focuses on the skills necessary for the production of independent and commercial applications. The primary objective of the curriculum is to prepare talented students with a foundation of knowledge and skills that can be applied to any of the varied contemporary uses of this medium, such as traditional character animation, clay animation, stop-motion or computer-generated animation. DCAD’s program provides the fundamental drawing and design skills necessary to be successful in this field combined with an understanding of the principles of motion, storytelling and conceptual development, as well as the application of these disciplines to current technology.

The objectives of the animation major are:
• To expose students to the many forms animation has taken over its 100-year history;
• To develop students’ ability to analyze and solve both technical and creative problems;
• To train students to use drawing as a tool to communicate story line and action;
• To develop students’ understanding and application of the principles of animation, including gravity, motion and timing;
• To enable students to produce their own animations through the creative use of sound, image and movement; and,
• To develop a working knowledge of current computer hardware and applications for animation.

See an outline of courses and course descriptions for Animation. (PDF)