Animation and Visual Effects Major
Study Animation at Azusa Pacific University
Study with experienced, working animation professionals who’ve created art for major studios including Disney TV, Nickelodeon, Wild Canary, Bento Box, and Netflix and have drawn characters including Winnie the Pooh, Phineas and Ferb, Ultraman, Stitch, Genie, Hercules, Larry Boy, xJ9, and more. You’ll benefit from having a clear focus, proximity to the industry, and develop a solid foundation in animation storytelling. We’ll help you graduate with a professional portfolio, and you’ll create a capstone 2D or 3D film presented in a showcase attended by industry executives. As you bring your ideas to life with access to APU’s state-of-the-art animation, gaming lab, green screen, and soundstage, you’ll also build industry connections as you study near the entertainment hub of Los Angeles.
Program at a Glance
Program Information
- Program Units: 72
Location
- Azusa (Main Campus)
Gain Hands-on Experience
- Create animated 2D or 3D films with original sound and content.
- Develop your skills in animation, drawing, storytelling, and cinematic arts.
- Network to help you land an animation position after graduation.
By the Numbers
Get Started
Kendall Hood ’25 wanted to pursue a career in animation at a Christian university with notably experienced professors—Azusa Pacific University fit that bill perfectly.
Program Details
Azusa Pacific University's Bachelor of Arts in Animation and Visual Effects will prepare you to make a difference in a creative and growing industry. Learn to bring characters, creatures, and objects to life in stories you create in this animation degree program with classes covering animation’s many facets, and cultivate your narrative techniques with a comprehensive cinematic arts curriculum.
Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.
How to Apply
- Complete your APU Undergraduate Application
- Select Cinematic Arts: Animation and Visual Effects, BA as your major
Priority Deadlines
Fall 2025 Applicants
February 15, 2025, is the priority deadline for the Fall 2025 B.A. in Animation and Visual Effects Application. Students must complete their APU Undergraduate Application by the deadline to ensure consideration.
This program will not admit students for the spring semester.
Program Admission Requirements
- APU Undergraduate Application
- A portfolio of 12-15 samples of original artwork. Work may include, but is not limited
to, the following traditional and digital artwork:
- 3-5 life drawings/figure poses (quick poses or longer studies)
- Sequential art sample
- Animal drawings
- Gesture poses or drawings of figures or animals
- Original character designs (could include expressions, poses, or attitudes of original characters)
- Composition studies that demonstrate knowledge of principles (film background designs, still life, environment, or architectural drawings)
- Animation examples (short reel of traditional or CG animation tests). Work created in digital programs, such as Maya, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.
- Samples of portrait painting or illustrations, color work, perspective drawings, prop designs, costume studies, caricatures of people, and landscape studies may be included
Plan a Visit
Applicants are encouraged to visit a class or meet with one of our professors. Just fill out a COTA Visitation Form to visit us virtually! We look forward to meeting you.
Questions
For questions about the application process, contact the Department of Cinematic Arts at [email protected].
General Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Select an option below:
School of the Arts Cinematic Arts Scholarship
The Cinematic Arts Scholarship is a talent-based scholarship available to select incoming undergraduate students enrolled in the:
Learn more about the Cinematic Arts Scholarship and how to apply.
At Azusa Pacific University, we’re committed to making your bachelor’s degree in psychology affordable. That’s why APU provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.
For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.
Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.
While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.
Student Employment
Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.
Military and Veterans Benefits
If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree in psychology.
Net Price Calculator
We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!
To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:
Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Career Outlooks and Outcomes
School of the Arts Hosts Industry Spotlight at Warner Bros. Studios
APU’s School of the Arts hosted the 2023 Industry Spotlight on May 4 at the legendary Warner Bros. Studios, giving students a chance to showcase their work in front of industry talent representatives and casting directors.