Animation

Program Description

Within six semesters, you’ll acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in both the traditional and computer animation production industry. Developed to meet the specific demands of animation studios in need of highly-trained animators, the curriculum focuses on the development of individual creative expression using experimental and innovative animation techniques. This is accomplished through the artistic application of the theories of motion, timing, storytelling, entertainment and the use of the most current technology required to work successfully in the competitive world of 2D and 3D animation.

Major components of your studies include pre-production, character and location design, writing, storyboarding, production, acting, timing, animation, post-production, lighting, compositing, editing and rendering.

Upon graduation, you’ll be proficient in the use of traditional animation theories, equipment and facilities, and will understand the many technical requirements of producing animation using the latest computer software. You’ll also be able to draw storyboards, design characters and sets, lay out scenes, light the environment and characters, and animate the character in a convincing and believable way. You’ll be able to produce believable characters in entertaining situations for broadcast on the web, television, film, or theatre.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)

Desirable:

• Grade 12 Mathematics
• Basic computer skills including Windows or Macintosh operating systems, word processing software (preferably Word) and spreadsheet software (preferably Excel). A basic understanding of graphic applications like Adobe Photoshop or Flash is an asset, but is not required.

Applicant Selection:

• In the event of oversubscription, applicant selection may be a two-step process. In Step 1, academic achievement (i.e. grades in pre-requisite subjects and/or scores in English and Reading Comprehension tests) may be used to select applicants who are eligible for Step 2. The second step will require the submission of an art portfolio showcasing the applicant's understanding of perspective and figure drawing fundamentals as well as personal works. This portfolio is handed in at a standardized orientation session, which may also contain a short on-hand drawing test. Applicants who are unsuccessful in Step 1 will be notified by mail, and will not be included in Step 2 of the selection process.

The Importance of Learning Skills:
Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.

Application Process

The applicant selection is a two-step process.

Step 1: Academic achievement (i.e. grades in prerequisite subjects and/or scores in English and Reading Comprehension tests) may be used to select applicants who are eligible for step 2.

Step 2: Attendance at an Orientation Session, completion of an on-site test, and submission of a portfolio (part A and B).

Applicants who are unsuccessful in Step 1 will be notified by mail, and will not be included in Step 2 of the selection process.

Part A:

A total of 10 traditional drawings, i.e. pencil, conté, ink, pastel or charcoal:

• two life drawings; must show entire body including head, hands and feet of subject in various poses
• two drawings of your own hand
• two object drawings; everyday items from around your house such as a kitchen appliance, coffee maker, can opener, TV remote, stapler, etc.
• two environment drawings; draw a two point perspective view of a room in your house from opposite corners, the horizon line should be at five (5) feet
• two drawings of your choice; choose your two best drawings

Part B:

Please include your résumé, focusing on any professional or volunteer positions that demonstrate your creative or artistic talents.

All artwork should be photocopied on 8 ½" x 11" paper. No original artwork please. After your portfolio has been assessed it will be destroyed, and cannot be returned to you. Do not staple or bind your drawings together in any way, and please ensure your name and student number is included on the back of every drawing you submit. Please do not include a cover letter with your artwork.

Portfolio Deadline and Orientation Session Your portfolio is due at the orientation sessions, which are typically held four to seven months prior to the beginning of classes. A brief two-part drawing test will be administered to each applicant. You will be advised through Admissions as to the exact dates of the orientation session. A tentative guide is provided below:

• February or March for the May Summer semester and September/Fall semester
• October or November for the January/Winter semester

Plan to be at the orientation session for two hours. Please bring sharpened pencils, an eraser, ruler and photo identification.

Your Career

From feature film to gaming studios, the rapidly expanding field of animation is constantly looking for skilled animators in both 2D and 3D applications. The animation industry, as little as 10 years ago, was limited to the occasional blockbuster release. Today, we find animation everywhere, from video games, feature films and advertisements to medical applications and architecture. As 2D and 3D technology continues to merge, the skills you’ll gain in both disciplines from our Animation advanced diploma program will place you in high demand.

General Education

One of the general education subjects must be a literature subject for which EAC150 is the pre-requisite.

Diploma to Degree... and Beyond

Through transfer agreements and institution partnerships, graduates of this Seneca College program may be eligible for credit at the following post-secondary institution(s):

Toronto

Ontario

U.S.

International

Curriculum

Currently under review:

***Streaming subject to enrolment and not guaranteed. (Students are required to make stream selection by week 2 of the 4th semester. Both streams may not be available in all semesters.)

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