Animation

About this Area

Bring your stories to life through hands-on learning in animation, where you'll develop skills in storytelling, character design, visual effects and 2D, 3D and stop-motion techniques using industry-standard tools. Learn from professional artists as you create animated films, collaborate with peers and build a portfolio through studio projects, showcases and industry connections. As your interests evolve, flexible pathways make it possible to transfer between the BFA, BA or minor. You'll graduate with the skills to pursue a career in animation, film, games or another creative industry.

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Program Offerings

Discover Animation Degree Programs

Master the art and technology of animation through hands-on learning in storytelling, character design, visual effects and animated filmmaking. Along the way, you’ll collaborate with peers, connect with industry professionals and build a portfolio that prepares you for a creative career.

Fall 2027 Majors & MinorsTransfer Applicants & Current Students

Beginning in Fall 2027, you can explore flexible degree pathways within the Cornish animation programs. Students who would like to transfer into the Animation BA when it opens in Fall 2027, should consult with their advisor to plan for a smooth transition.

Animation, BFA, BA & Minor

The Animation BFA offers an immersive, studio-based experience with advanced production work, collaborative filmmaking and a multi-semester thesis film. The Animation BA provides greater flexibility to combine animation with other academic interests through electives, double majors and minors, while the Animation minor introduces the animation pipeline and foundational production skills that complement other fields.

Apply for Fall 2027

Whether you’re hoping to transfer to Cornish or are already enrolled at Cornish College of Arts at Seattle University, here is how you can study animation during the 2026/2027 academic year.

Animation, BFA

Develop your creativity and technical skills through the Animation BFA, where you’ll create original animated films while mastering 2D, 3D and stop-motion animation, storytelling, character design and visual effects. Learn from professional artists using industry-standard software in state-of-the-art studios, collaborate on film projects and showcase your work at student exhibitions and film festivals.

Apply for the 2026/2027 Year

Application Process

See What’s Required to Apply

Choosing a college is about finding the program that best supports your goals. At Cornish, we look for students who are passionate about their area of study and eager to grow.

Learn More About the Application Process

All applicants must submit a Seattle University application, application fee or approved waiver, recommendations, and a writing sample. Review the specific requirements for your Cornish program before you apply.

How to Apply

See Portfolio Requirements

If you’re applying to a BFA program, you’ll submit a portfolio as part of your application. Portfolios give Cornish the opportunity to see your artistic interests, potential, and commitment to your creative practice. You do not need to create new work specifically for your portfolio; your strongest recent work is often the best representation of your abilities and interests. BA degree program applicants do not have to submit a portfolio.

Animation Portfolio Requirements

Animation

Faculty + Staff

Dedicated to mentoring the next generation of creatives, Cornish faculty combine extensive professional expertise with a passion for teaching students how to develop the skills, confidence and vision to succeed in the arts.