Film and Animation Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree

The film and animation degree prepares you to produce, creatively and practically, your own independent work and/or fulfill professional production responsibilities in any medium suitable to your interests and abilities.

Through lectures and laboratories, you will develop individual skills in moving-image communications and learn the aesthetic principles governing art. Technology and technique are taught as a means to achieve a creative goal.

Film and Animation BFA Options:

As a film major, you have two options to choose from to pursue your craft:

• Animation option – This animation BFA on 2D, 3D, and stop motion animation spanning from conception to application to final production of short films.
• Production option – This focuses on production through visual and sound artistry utilizing hands-on experience with camera, editing, and sound equipment.

Production work occurs throughout every semester, with students producing several short films in either live-action or animation by working through all phases of production, from scripting, production planning, and budgeting to shooting, designing, animating, editing, and sound design. Students further their learning of visual and sound artistry through hands-on experience with camera and sound equipment. Film, video, and animation projects are designed by individual students. A wide variety of styles and intentions is expressed in the department’s work.

The School of Film and Animation also offers a limited selection of courses ranging from beginning courses to those requiring a substantial background during the summer term.

Network and build lasting connections with several professional organizations, including:

• Animation World Network
• College Art Association
• Rochester Audio Visual Association
• Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers
• University Film and Video Association
• Siggraph
• BEA

Hands-On Experience to Gain Real World Skills

RIT in LA gives film bachelor’s degree students the opportunity to spend a semester in Los Angeles learning from industry professionals. The bulk of your time will be spent doing internships, but you'll also complete two courses that will complement your study-away experience.

Interested in a Career in Game Arts?

We’ve got you covered. The film and animation major allows you to explore your creative interests related to video games. You'll have endless opportunities to collaborate with developers and fellow artists on game and digital media projects. Film and animation alumni have gone on to establish successful careers as game artists. Learn how you can use the film and animation major to launch a career in game arts.

Furthering Your Education in Film and Animation

Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degree

Today’s careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT’s Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.

+1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor’s degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.