Animation

Animation at Sheridan College is a comprehensive and dynamic program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of animation. Combining rigorous technical training with creative development, the program offers students opportunities to explore various aspects of animation production, including character design, storyboarding, 3D modeling, visual effects, and digital animation techniques. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard software, enabling them to develop their skills in a professional environment. Throughout the program, emphasis is placed on storytelling, visual communication, and the development of a unique artistic voice, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the global animation industry. Coursework is complemented by hands-on projects, collaborative team work, and industry internships, providing practical experience and networking opportunities. The program encourages innovation and experimentation, fostering an environment where students can push creative boundaries while mastering the technical skills necessary for animation production. Sheridan College's Animation program is renowned for its strong industry connections, faculty expertise, and dedicated support for student success. Graduates leave prepared to pursue careers in animation for film, television, gaming, advertising, and other media platforms, with a portfolio that showcases their diverse talents and technical proficiency. Whether students aspire to be character animators, visual effects artists, story artists, or digital illustrators, they will find a solid foundation and mentorship to help realize their creative potential. With a focus on both artistic excellence and technical mastery, Sheridan's Animation program offers an inspiring environment to turn imagination into compelling visual stories, making it a leading choice for aspiring animation professionals.

The Animation program at Sheridan College offers a comprehensive and immersive education designed to prepare students for a successful career in the dynamic field of animation. Over the course of this program, students will develop a strong foundation in both traditional and digital animation techniques, including 2D and 3D animation, character design, storyboarding, motion graphics, and visual storytelling. The curriculum emphasizes creativity, technical proficiency, and a deep understanding of the animation production pipeline, enabling graduates to produce compelling content for film, television, gaming, advertising, and other media platforms.

Students will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, and Toon Boom Harmony, ensuring they are well-versed in the tools used by professionals today. The program also incorporates courses in life drawing, anatomy, and narrative development to strengthen artistic skills and storytelling capabilities. Collaboration is a key component of the program, with students working on group projects that simulate real-world production environments, fostering teamwork, communication, and project management skills that are essential in the animation industry.

Throughout their studies, students will have opportunities to participate in industry events, internships, and portfolio development workshops, providing valuable networking opportunities and real-world experience. Sheridan’s state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated animation labs and sound studios, support a creative learning environment. The program emphasizes a balance between artistic expression and technical expertise, encouraging students to push creative boundaries while mastering the practical skills needed to succeed.

Graduates of the Animation program are prepared to work as character animators, storyboard artists, visual effects artists, motion designers, and more. They enter the industry with a strong portfolio of work and a professional mindset, ready to tackle the diverse challenges of the animation sector. Sheridan College’s Animation program is committed to fostering innovation, artistic growth, and industry readiness, empowering students to turn their artistic passions into successful careers in animation.

Program Requirements for the Bachelor of Animation at Sheridan College include a combination of academic prerequisites, portfolio submissions, and essential skills. Applicants must hold a Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with a minimum grade requirement in specified subjects such as English. A strong foundation in visual arts, including drawing, painting, or digital art, is highly recommended. Prior experience with digital tools and software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, or similar graphic applications, can enhance an applicant’s candidacy. A compelling portfolio showcasing originality, technical skill, and an understanding of animation principles is mandatory; the portfolio should demonstrate diverse work, including character designs, storyboards, concept art, and digital animations. Some programs may also ask for a personal statement or letter of intent that articulates the applicant’s interest in animation, creative goals, and understanding of the industry.

Mathematical proficiency is advantageous, especially in areas related to programming or computational aspects of animation. Applicants should possess strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and storytelling abilities, all of which are essential for success in the program. English language proficiency requirements must be met through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS for international applicants, with minimum scores specified by the college.

The program emphasizes practical skills and industry readiness; therefore, experience with 3D modeling, rigging, and computer animation software can be valuable but may not be strictly required initially. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate curiosity and enthusiasm for animation, background knowledge of animation history and techniques, and an understanding of current industry trends. The application process includes submitting official transcripts, a portfolio, and other supporting materials via Sheridan College’s online system.

The program fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, so skills in communication, teamwork, and adaptability are important. Participation in relevant workshops, internships, or industry events can strengthen an application. The college provides detailed guidelines on portfolio content and submission procedures on their official website. Once admitted, students are expected to develop technical competencies, creative problem-solving abilities, and a professional portfolio that meets industry standards. Continuous learning, adaptability to new software and methods, and active engagement with the animation community are encouraged throughout the program duration.

The Animation program at Sheridan College offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Full-time students can access several sources of financial aid, including government grants and loans, scholarships and bursaries, and work-study opportunities. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a primary resource for eligible Canadian students, providing loans and grants based on financial need, which can cover tuition, living expenses, and other educational costs. Sheridan College also administers its own scholarships and bursaries, which are awarded based on academic achievement, creative talent, and financial need. Many of these awards are renewable and provide ongoing support through the duration of the program.

Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships offered directly by Sheridan College or through external organizations. Additionally, the college sometimes offers specific bursaries aimed at students pursuing Animation, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. International students enrolled in the program are eligible for different funding options, including private scholarships, external grants, and part-time work opportunities both on and off-campus, subject to visa regulations.

Part-time work can be an effective way for students to finance their education while gaining relevant industry experience. Sheridan College’s Career Centre provides resources and job fairs to help students find suitable employment opportunities. Cooperative education (co-op) placements are integrated into some versions of the programme, allowing students to earn income during their work terms. Furthermore, students are advised to explore external private scholarships, competitions, and industry-specific grants that support emerging animators.

In addition to financial aid, students should consider the cost of living in the region and budget accordingly. Sheridan College offers advice and resources to help students manage their finances effectively. Financial planning workshops, counselling services, and online resources are available to assist students in understanding and navigating their financial responsibilities. Overall, options for financing studies at Sheridan College's Animation program are diverse, designed to support students both academically and financially, facilitating a focus on their creative and technical development in the field of animation.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation at Sheridan College is a comprehensive and highly regarded program designed to prepare students for professional careers in the diverse field of animation. The program emphasizes developing strong technical skills, artistic ability, storytelling, and understanding of the animation industry. Students are introduced to a wide range of animation techniques, including 2D traditional, 2D digital, 3D modeling, and character animation, providing a solid foundation for versatile expertise.

Throughout the program, students engage in rigorous coursework that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. They learn about the principles of motion, timing, anatomy, and storytelling, which are essential for creating compelling animated content. Technical training includes proficiency in industry-standard software such as Harmony, Maya, and Adobe Creative Suite, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for employment in animation studios, gaming industries, advertising, and multimedia companies.

The program features a mix of lectures, workshops, and studio projects, encouraging collaborative work and critical feedback. Students develop their personal artistic voice through individual and group projects, participating in film festivals and animation showcases to gain exposure and industry connections. Sheridan’s location in Oakville, near Toronto, provides students with access to a vibrant arts community and numerous opportunities for internships and industry partnerships.

Sheridan College's animation program also emphasizes the importance of professional development, including portfolio preparation, pitching, and understanding industry standards. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated animation studios, motion capture equipment, and simulation labs. The faculty comprises experienced industry professionals committed to mentoring and guiding students toward successful careers.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation at Sheridan College are equipped with a diverse skill set, a strong portfolio, and practical experience, enabling them to excel in various roles such as character animator, story artist, visual effects artist, or animation director. The program’s reputation for excellence has resulted in numerous alumni working for leading animation companies worldwide. Overall, Sheridan’s animation program offers a dynamic and immersive educational experience tailored to meet the evolving demands of the animation industry, making it a top choice for aspiring animators seeking a high-quality education and a launching pad for their creative careers.