Five Fascinating Industries for a Computer Animation Grad

Imagine a job in animation and you might picture your favorite cartoon. While the entertainment industry still dominates the computer animation field, there is a world of fascinating careers out there that aspire to challenge and reward your skills. Check out 5 fascinating companies you might find yourself working for with a computer animation degree.

Career #1: Animation Studio

As the old career standard of animation training, animation studios have years of rich history. Imagine drawing now-famous cartoons next to Les Clark and Marc Davis. These days, the animation studio has moved from the drawing board to the computer lab, integrating techniques like 3D rendering, motion capture, CG animation, and more. Study character modeling and create the next Shrek, innovating in the footsteps of the old masters.

Career #2: Film Studio

Though you might not imagine a live-action film studio as a career destination for animators, it's a popular choice. Computer animators are valued in the live-action industry, whether they're creating massive special effects or color-correcting a character's wardrobe to the director's specifications. Visual effects artists employ their computer animation and effects training to subtle and stunning results, pulling the viewers into the film without even knowing they're watching animation.

Career #3: Advertising Agency

Advertising is all around us, and animation is one way to compel viewers to pay attention. When clients want a character or concept that will stick with their audience (think of Geico's gecko or Budweiser's frogs), they turn to animators. Whether you're watching an ad on television or online, you're a witness to the power of computer animation in the advertising world. Combine an animation degree with business or advertising-specific training and further increase your marketability in the advertising world.

Career #4: Video Game Company

From creating characters to designing vehicles, weapons, landscapes, and textures, computer animators are highly valued members of any video game design team. Work your way into the industry as a concept artist or texture painter, gaining skills and respect as you climb the career ladder and potentially even take charge of your own video game concepts. With a degree from a computer animation school, you gain the skills you'll need to break into this highly competitive industry.

Career #5: Scientific Laboratory

Bring the scientific world to life with an animation degree. Use coursework in 3D rendering and computer animation to help bridge the gap between scientists and artists, creating animations and renders that explain complex scientific concepts to a wider audience. You could even create realistic simulations that could be used in research labs to test concepts, organize data, and explore the scientific world.

From Animation Degree to Career Inspiration

Ready to launch your own fascinating career? With an animation degree, you can match an education to your interests. Get in touch with computer animation schools and learn how you can prepare yourself for one of the many rewarding careers in the animation industry.