Animation Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Getting an Animation Degree in Honolulu, Hawaii

If you’re considering a career in animation, earning an Animation Degree in Honolulu, Hawaii, can be an excellent first step. This guide will walk you through the process of pursuing an Animation Degree, discussing local educational options, employment opportunities, and industry resources.

An Animation Degree provides the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in industries like film, video games, and digital media. Programs typically cover areas such as 3D animation, digital arts, and storytelling. Depending on your goals, you can pursue an Associate of Science (A.S.), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), or Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Animation or related fields.

About Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu, is the capital and largest city of Hawaii. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and iconic landmarks like Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, Honolulu offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. The city’s thriving creative community makes it an inspiring place to study animation. To learn more about Honolulu, visit the official city website.

Animation Degree Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Several educational institutions in Honolulu offer Animation programs, with options ranging from associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees. Here are the top schools in the area:

1. University of Hawaii at Manoa

  • Program: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Digital Cinema, Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Electronic Arts
  • Specializations: Animation, Digital Arts, Visual Effects
  • Website: University of Hawaii at Manoa – Academy for Creative Media
  • Description: The Academy for Creative Media at the University of Hawaii at Manoa offers comprehensive programs in animation and related fields, emphasizing storytelling and technical skills.

2. Hawaii Pacific University

  • Program: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Cinematic Production, Integrated Multimedia
  • Specializations: Digital Cinema, Computer Animation, Critical Studies
  • Website: Hawaii Pacific University
  • Description: Hawaii Pacific University provides a diverse range of courses in animation and multimedia, preparing students for creative careers in the entertainment and digital industries.

3. Kapiolani Community College

  • Program: Associate of Science (A.S.) in Animation, Interface Design
  • Specializations: 3D Animation, Graphic Design, User Interface Design
  • Website: Kapiolani Community College – New Media Arts
  • Description: The New Media Arts program at Kapiolani Community College equips students with foundational skills in animation and interface design, focusing on industry-relevant training.

Additional Schools Nearby

If you’re open to studying outside Honolulu, consider the University of Hawaii Maui College, which is approximately 100 miles away and offers an A.S. in Animation. Visit their website for more details.

Animation Employment Opportunities in Honolulu

Honolulu is home to a growing animation and digital media industry, with several notable employers:

1. ARL Digital

  • Location: Downtown Honolulu
  • Website: ARL Digital
  • Description: Specializes in animation and visual effects for local and international clients.

2. PBS Hawaii

  • Location: Kalihi
  • Website: PBS Hawaii
  • Description: Hawaii’s public television station, offering opportunities for animators in educational content creation.

3. Hawaii Animation Studios

  • Location: Kaka’ako
  • Website: Hawaii Animation Studios
  • Description: Focuses on producing animated content for commercials, games, and films.

Prerequisites for Animation Programs

Before enrolling in an Animation program, you’ll need to meet certain requirements. These typically include:

  • General Requirements:
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • SAT or ACT scores (varies by program)
    • Minimum GPA: 2.5
  • Specific Requirements:
    • Portfolio submission for B.F.A. and B.A. programs
    • Prerequisite courses in art or design for A.S. degrees

Check with each school for detailed admission requirements.

Animation Industry Certifications

While an Animation Degree is essential, earning industry-specific certifications can enhance your skills and employability. Common certifications include:

  • Adobe Certified Professional: Demonstrates proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud software, such as Photoshop and Illustrator.
  • Autodesk Maya Certification: Validates expertise in 3D modeling and animation using Autodesk Maya.
  • Blender Certification: Highlights skills in open-source 3D creation software.

Additionally, building a strong portfolio showcasing your work is crucial for standing out in the competitive animation industry.

Get Started Today

Pursuing an Animation Degree in Honolulu, Hawaii, opens doors to creative and rewarding career opportunities. Whether you aim to work in film, video games, or digital media, Honolulu offers excellent educational programs and industry connections. Take the first step toward your dream career by exploring local schools and contacting their admissions offices today.