Animation Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Getting an Animation Degree in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Animation is a dynamic and creative field that combines technical expertise with artistic vision. Pursuing an Animation Degree can open doors to careers in film, television, video games, and more. Oklahoma City offers several pathways for aspiring animators, from undergraduate programs to specialized training. This guide will explore the educational opportunities, job prospects, and resources available to help you achieve your animation career goals in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

What is an Animation Degree?

An Animation Degree provides the skills and knowledge needed to create visual stories using animation techniques. Programs can range from associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees, with options to specialize in areas like 2D animation, 3D animation, game design, or visual effects. Students learn to use industry-standard software, develop a professional portfolio, and gain hands-on experience to prepare for a competitive job market.

About Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City, the capital of Oklahoma, is a vibrant urban center with a rich cultural and artistic heritage. Known for its thriving arts scene, the city is home to institutions like the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Paseo Arts District. Oklahoma City also has a growing film and animation community, making it an excellent location for budding animators.

To learn more about the city, visit Oklahoma City’s official website.

Animation Degree Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

1. Oklahoma City University (OCU)

  • Location: Oklahoma City, OK
  • Programs Offered:
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Game Design and Animation
    • Animation Minor
  • Key Features: OCU offers a well-rounded curriculum that combines foundational art and design courses with cutting-edge animation techniques. Students can also benefit from scholarships, such as the $6,000 annual scholarship for animation majors.
  • Website: Oklahoma City University Animation Program

2. Oklahoma Christian University (OC)

  • Location: Edmond, OK (approx. 15 miles from Oklahoma City)
  • Programs Offered:
    • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Gaming and Animation
    • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Gaming and Animation
    • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Gaming and Animation
    • Animation Minor
  • Key Features: OC provides access to advanced labs and studios, offering students hands-on experience with the latest animation tools and technologies. The program emphasizes both technical skills and artistic development.
  • Website: Oklahoma Christian University Animation Program

3. University of Central Oklahoma (UCO)

  • Location: Edmond, OK (approx. 15 miles from Oklahoma City)
  • Programs Offered:
    • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with a focus on Graphic Design and Animation
  • Key Features: UCO’s program focuses on animation within the broader context of graphic design, providing a versatile skill set for students interested in multiple creative industries.
  • Website: University of Central Oklahoma Animation Program

If you’re willing to explore further, schools in nearby cities, such as Tulsa, also offer robust animation programs.

Animation Employment Opportunities in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City hosts a growing number of animation-related employment opportunities, especially in game design, digital media, and film production. Notable employers include:

1. Prairie Surf Media

  • Location: Downtown Oklahoma City
  • About: A leading film and television production company, Prairie Surf Media provides opportunities for animators and visual effects artists to work on large-scale productions.
  • Website: Prairie Surf Media Careers

2. Trifecta Communications

  • Location: Moore, OK (approx. 10 miles from Oklahoma City)
  • About: Specializing in augmented reality, virtual reality, and 3D animation, Trifecta Communications collaborates with brands to create innovative digital content.
  • Website: Trifecta Communications Careers

3. Boiling Point Media

  • Location: Northwest Oklahoma City
  • About: A marketing and advertising firm with a focus on animation, motion graphics, and video production.
  • Website: Boiling Point Media Careers

Prerequisites for Animation Programs

Before enrolling in an Animation Degree program, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

  1. Educational Requirements:

    • High school diploma or equivalent.
    • Submission of SAT or ACT scores (varies by institution).

  2. Portfolio Submission:

    • Many programs require a portfolio showcasing artistic skills, including sketches, digital artwork, or animation projects.

  3. Minimum GPA:

    • Some programs have specific GPA requirements for admission.

Animation Industry Certifications

While a degree provides foundational knowledge, industry certifications can enhance your employability by demonstrating proficiency in specific tools and techniques. Certifications include:

  • Autodesk Maya Certification: Recognized for expertise in 3D modeling and animation.
  • Adobe Certified Professional (ACP): Covers essential tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and After Effects.
  • Blender Certification: Validates skills in open-source 3D animation software.

Building a strong portfolio remains essential, as it showcases your creativity and technical skills to potential employers.

Get Started Today

Oklahoma City offers a range of opportunities for aspiring animators, from high-quality degree programs to employment prospects in film and digital media. Whether you’re interested in 2D animation, 3D modeling, or game design, pursuing an Animation Degree is a rewarding step toward a creative career. Take the first step today by reaching out to local schools and exploring their programs. Your journey in animation begins now!