Talk to a Current Student
Want to learn more about the program or student experience? Reach out to a current Animation and Visual Effects student! They would be happy to answer your questions.
A vibrant and vital part of Dodge College, Animation and Visual Effects (AVE) offers one-on-one mentorship with animation legends, and unparalleled access to industry expertise and opportunity in three areas of major study: 2D animation, 3D animation and visual effects. Animation students collaborate with film students on virtual production workshops utilizing our LED wall and motion capture systems; supervise VFX on live-action projects; and work with screenwriters, voice actors and producers to direct their own animation projects.
Oscar-winning director Brenda Chapman (Brave), Emmy Award winner Lauren Faust (My Little Pony), two-time Oscar nominee John Musker (Moana) and three-time Oscar winner Rob Legato (Titanic) are the Animation Greats mentoring and inspiring students in Fall 2024.
In July 2024, Dodge College of Film and Media Arts proudly partnered with Gobelins, the prestigious visual arts institution in Paris, to enrich the educational experience of our talented students. Sixteen students from our Animation and Visual Effects department were honored to participate in Gobelins’ renowned Summer School program in Visual Storytelling, held on their historic campus.
Gobelins boasts 60 years of excellence in visual arts education and is recognized globally for its commitment to nurturing creativity across all forms of visual media. Our students had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a curriculum that emphasizes the entire creative process, from conception to production. The hands-on approach and personalized coaching provided by Gobelins’ industry professionals allowed our students to enhance their storytelling and visual development skills in an inspiring environment.
As the No. 4 film school in the United States, Dodge College is dedicated to empowering aspiring filmmakers and media artists. This partnership with Gobelins’ aligns perfectly with our mission to foster creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. The Summer School program offered our students invaluable insights into methodology, story structure, theme analysis, character development, and visual concepts.
Moreover, this collaboration promotes international exchanges, enriching the storytelling landscape by bringing together diverse perspectives from around the world. We are excited about the future of this partnership and the opportunities it creates for our students to learn from and engage with leading professionals in the field.
At Dodge College, we believe that experiences like this are essential for developing the next generation of storytellers, and we are grateful to Gobelins for welcoming our students into their vibrant community. Together, we are shaping a creative future that transcends borders and inspires innovative storytelling.
We’re located between Orange County’s dynamic gaming industry and Hollywood’s vibrant creative community. Between the two of them and with the help of our excellent Career Center, incredible internship opportunities can be found at Disney, DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, Pixar and beyond.
Animation and effects are everywhere. That’s why we offer opportunities to take your studies around the world with our travel programs. Check out Dodge Study Abroad Opportunities to find out how you can expand your passion for animation abroad and visit our Center for Global Education for even more options to take your education worldwide.
All applicants are required to submit the Common Application and a Creative Supplement. You can learn more about applying here. While you consider Chapman, we hope you’ll come visit Dodge College in person. These 45-minute tours are given by current students. They cover all academic programs, give an inside look at our facilities and provide opportunities to ask questions.
Ruth Daly Program Director and Coordinator (The Iron Giant, The Golden Compass, Life of Pi)
Mariam Hamed Assistant Professor (Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Kung Fu Panda 4)
David Kuhn Assistant Professor (Hercules, Pocahontas, Fantasia 2000)
John Perez Assistant Professor (South Park)
Graham Cunningham Lecturer (Resident Evil: The Final Chapter)
For a full list of Dodge College faculty, visit our faculty directory.
Want to learn more about the program or student experience? Reach out to a current Animation and Visual Effects student! They would be happy to answer your questions.
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