Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Motion Design and Animation)
Hours: 120 On-Campus
About
The BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation) at Fort Hays State University offers students a strong foundation in artistic vision and technical execution. Students learn visual communication, design fundamentals, and storytelling, equipping them with essential skills for animation students pursuing careers in various industries.
The program supports creative exploration while ensuring students possess technical skills. Students gain expertise in the animation pipeline, from conceptual design and storyboarding to lighting, sound, and editing. By the time they graduate, students are prepared to take on roles in video production, film, games, and digital media.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Motion Design and Animation) at Fort Hays State University?
The BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation) program at FHSU offers a distinctive and highly supportive learning environment where each student is recognized for their unique contributions and potential. Faculty members provide personalized mentorship and cultivate close professional relationships with students, ensuring direct access to expert feedback and meaningful guidance.
The curriculum strongly emphasizes both concept and execution, integrating technical instruction with artistic thinking and creative exploration. Students gain experience in a wide range of animation techniques, including stop-motion, digital 2D/3D animation, and real-time workflows.
Who is this program for?
The BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation) program is ideal for creative individuals passionate about storytelling, visual communication, and digital media. It is available for students who wish to gain technical, artistic, and professional skills in an environment that fosters personal growth and creative experimentation:
- Creative thinkers interested in digital storytelling
- Students seeking careers in design, film, or animation
- Artists wanting to develop technical motion graphics skills
- Individuals interested in 2D, 3D, or stop-motion animation
- Visual communicators focused on commercial or educational media
- Future professionals interested in media production or VFX
Learning Outcomes
A forward-thinking approach defines the learning outcomes for students enrolled in the BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation). These outcomes ensure that students acquire technical and artistic proficiency and develop intellectual, professional, and conceptual competencies that will serve them throughout their careers.
Creative and Technical Mastery
Students construct professional-level animation and motion design projects, demonstrating mastery of visual techniques, media tools, and creative storytelling. Projects should reflect cohesive design principles, attention to spatial/temporal dynamics, and innovative problem-solving.
Critical Analysis and Contextual Thinking
Students cultivate a deep understanding of historical and contemporary art movements. Students must compare and evaluate their work in context, drawing parallels and contrasts with other artists and movements to inform their creative direction and conceptual reasoning.
Professional Development and Presentation
Learners develop a refined portfolio showcasing their best work, composing and presenting it with clarity and strategy. Supporting marketing documents, such as resumes, artist statements, and promotional materials, facilitate employment and client opportunities.
Project Management and Strategic Planning
We emphasize the ability to plan, execute, and critique long-term projects. Students must develop coherent project plans that integrate artistic goals, target audience analysis, production pipelines, and delivery strategies and meet professional standards.
Real-World Applications
Studio coursework, professional software training, and practical internship experience prepare students thoroughly in the BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation) program for real-world demands. We emphasize using industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema 4D, and Unreal Engine, equipping students to execute animation and motion design projects with high technical precision.
Throughout the program, our focus is on experiential learning, with students participating in internships at studios and creative agencies. Students gain firsthand insight into working environments and build valuable industry contacts. Additionally, participation in reviews like the Justin McClure Creative portfolio event offers opportunities for internships and scholarships.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Integrated into the curriculum are emerging tools and animation trends, ensuring graduates learn the latest industry practices. Our program leverages the latest advancements in both digital and physical media, such as real-time 3D software and experimental animation processes, so students become fluent in new technologies and artistic workflows.
Instructors stay actively involved in the professional field, bringing real-world insights into the classroom to ensure a dynamic and relevant learning experience. Guest lectures, industry events, and cutting-edge creative technologies expose students to various perspectives and specialties.
Hands-on Activities
Hands-on learning is the foundation of the BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation) program, with students immersed in studio classes that prioritize project-based education. Students apply techniques from traditional stop-motion to real-time animation in collaborative and individual projects.
Students also participate in live critiques, portfolio reviews, and exhibitions, gaining exposure to professional expectations and peer feedback. Engagement with creative organizations, such as AIGA, bridges academic learning and real-world networking, positioning students well for internships and employment opportunities after graduation.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamentals of animation and visual effects
- Use of Adobe Suite, Cinema 4D, Unreal
- Creative storytelling and concept development
- Motion graphics techniques and 3D animation
- Portfolio creation for careers in the arts
- Art history’s impact on media and design
How You’ll Learn:
- Project-based studio coursework
- Internship experience and job-ready training
- Peer critique and professional reviews
- Faculty-led workshops and guidance
- Real-world client-based assignments
- Collaborative group animation projects
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Many students may find that their interests overlap with related disciplines at Fort Hays State University. The following programs offer complementary skills and career paths:
- B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting)
- BFA in Art (Graphic Design)
- Certificate in Basic Graphic Design
- Certificate in Motion Design Or Certificate in Basic Motion Design
Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts
At FHSU’s School of Visual and Performing Arts, creativity thrives in a supportive and passionate community. Our programs in Art, Design, Music, and Theatre offer students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether you aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, our expert faculty provides hands-on learning experiences that inspire and challenge you.
With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your chosen field. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, our programs equip you with the tools to make your mark in the world of visual and performing arts.