Undergraduate | Media Arts
2D + Experimental Animation
Clockwise from left: Helena Escauriaga, Nastenka Alava Calle, Edward Madojemu, student works on stop-motion video.
Set yourself up for a creative and fulfilling career in the dynamic world of animation.
The field of animation is growing and filled with opportunities. Our 2D + Experimental Animation program equips you for a fulfilling career as an animator, narrative storyteller, artist, and filmmaker—with skills that will put you ahead of the pack in creative industries.
Through traditional and digital drawing methods, students will learn everything they need to succeed as animation artists and filmmakers, with opportunities to experiment along the way. Our program prides itself on creative approaches to animation using a wide range of media, including the latest digital technologies, stop-motion, and motion graphics.
The program is designed to give a thorough understanding of animation creativity and production. You'll study all aspects of animation—from fundamental design principles and character development to storytelling, filmmaking, and advanced production techniques. You'll learn critical thinking skills, media theory and aesthetics, and the history of animation. You'll also master the latest digital drawing techniques and animation software. Best of all, you'll be mentored by seasoned animation practitioners working in the cultural and entertainment sectors.
Our program is unique in its balance of critical learning and hands-on creating: during your 3rd and 4th years of study, you'll create two major animation projects, bringing your own vision to life. With these stand-alone projects under your belt upon graduation, you'll be prepared to jump straight into your career in the animation industry and creative sector.
"I have a hands-on approach to work and really enjoy the artistic stage of iteration within animation. At Emily Carr, I learnt to push myself and really experiment with new styles, mediums and techniques."
Tisha Deb Pillai
BMA Animation 2017
Credits: 120
Year 1: First-Year Foundation Studies
Year 2-4: 2D Animation courses and electives
Designation: Bachelor of Media Arts, Majoring in 2D + Experimental Animation (BMA, 2D + Experimental Animation)
Faculty: The Ian Gillespie Faculty of Design + Dynamic Media
For application information, including admission requirements, see Admissions.
Example Courses
ANIM 215: Storyboarding
ANIM 300: Story & Structure for Animation
ANIM 338: Motion Graphics
ANIM 339: Experimental Animation
2DAN 310: Creative Development for Animation Filmmaking
2DAN 400 & 410: Senior Animation Production I & II
Students also have the opportunity to complete a Minor in Curatorial Studies, Art + Text, or Social Practice + Community Engagement.
Studio culture is at the heart of your educational experience at Emily Carr, as spaces where you can create, learn, collaborate, experiment, and play.
Animation students have access to our spacious and well-equipped shops and studios, including our Animation Studio, which offers access to industry-standard 2D, 3D and post-production software. You will also work in our stop-motion studios and editing suites, Film + Screen Arts Studio, and Sound Lab, among others.
Each space is maintained by expert technical staff who collaborate with faculty and staff to provide students with instruction and guidance. Technical staff ensure safe and accessible working environments and lead instructional workshops to enhance your learning.
A BMA is about so much more than what you'll learn in the classroom—it's also about the vibrant community you'll join during your studies.
As an Animation student, you'll be part of a dynamic arts community both locally and internationally. The 2D + Experimental Animation Major is designed to give students as many professional development opportunities as possible, including but not limited to:
Regular speakers and events, including the DDM Speaker Series
Admission to festivals, conferences and networking events with notable animation artists and industry leaders
Connections with local animation studios.
Internships, grants, and research opportunities, including through the Basically Good Media Lab.
Use of ECU's creative production facilities.
Industry experience and work-integrated learning opportunities facilitated by our Careers team.
Connections with local studios, shops, and labs outside ECU.
Meet Your Future Community
Edward Madojemu
Breaking new ground in VR.
Lia Fabre-Dimsdale
Landing a prestigious internship with Atomic Cartoons.
Catelyne Ma
Winning festival accolades with her animated short.
Where ECU Can Take You
Graduates of the 2D + Experimental Animation Major bring many in-demand skills to the job market, from advanced technical abilities to critical knowledge.
Upon graduation, students follow a variety of career paths and roles:
Animation roles in a variety of sectors:
Advertising, TV, and feature film production
Animation design and story development
Motion graphics and advertising
Virtual and augmented reality
Work in the cultural sector, including auteur film-making and gallery exhibition
Graduate studies and further education
Prepare to Apply
Faculty of Design + Dynamic Media
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