Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Motion Design and Animation)
Hours: 120 On-Campus
About
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Motion Design and Animation) at Fort Hays State University provides students with a solid foundation in artistic vision and technical execution. The curriculum emphasizes visual communication, design principles, and storytelling, equipping students with essential skills for careers in animation and related industries.
The program encourages creative exploration while ensuring that students develop strong technical proficiency. Through comprehensive training in the animation pipeline, including conceptual design, storyboarding, lighting, sound, and editing, students gain hands-on experience in every production stage. Upon graduation, they are well-prepared for professional roles in video production, film, gaming, 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 offers a dynamic and supportive learning environment that recognizes and nurtures each student’s talents and potential. Faculty members provide personalized mentorship and cultivate strong professional relationships, ensuring students receive expert feedback and meaningful guidance throughout their academic journey.
The program strongly emphasizes conceptual development and technical execution, blending artistic thinking with hands-on instruction. Students explore a wide range of animation techniques, including stop-motion, digital 2D and 3D animation, and real-time workflows, gaining versatile skills applicable to diverse creative industries.
Who is this program for?
This program is well-suited for creative individuals passionate about storytelling, visual communication, and digital media. It allows students to develop technical, artistic, and professional skills within a supportive environment that encourages 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
Real-World Applications
The program combines studio coursework, professional software training, and hands-on internships to fully prepare students for the demands of the motion design and animation industry. A strong emphasis is placed on mastering industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema 4D, and Unreal Engine, enabling students to create projects with high technical precision and creative impact.
Experiential learning is a core component of the curriculum. Students gain real-world experience through internships at studios and creative agencies, offering insight into professional workflows and helping them build valuable industry connections. Career readiness is further supported by opportunities like the Justin McClure Creative portfolio review, which provides access to internships and scholarship awards.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University continually integrates emerging tools and animation trends into its curriculum, ensuring graduates are equipped with the latest industry practices. The program embraces digital and physical media advancements, such as real-time 3D software and experimental animation techniques, enabling students to stay fluent in evolving technologies and contemporary creative workflows.
Faculty members remain actively involved in the professional field, bringing real-world experience into the classroom to create a dynamic and relevant learning environment. Students benefit from diverse perspectives and specialized expertise through guest lectures, industry events, and exposure to cutting-edge animation and motion design technologies.
Hands-on Activities
Hands-on learning forms the foundation of the BFA in Art (Motion Design and Animation) program, immersing students in studio courses emphasizing project-based education. Through individual and collaborative projects, students explore various techniques, from traditional stop-motion to real-time animation.
The program also features live critiques, portfolio reviews, and exhibitions, giving students practical experience meeting professional standards and receiving constructive feedback. Participation in creative organizations such as AIGA further bridges the gap between academic learning and industry engagement, strengthening students’ readiness for internships and career 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 core curriculum provides students with a solid foundation in art and design by introducing traditional artistic techniques, fundamental design principles, and cultural context. These foundational courses equip students with the skills to create and analyze visual narratives, supporting more advanced study.
As students advance, specialized coursework in motion design, animation theory, video production, and digital storytelling builds upon this foundation. Technical proficiency is developed through hands-on experience with industry-standard software, while training in storyboarding and production planning prepares students to manage creative projects from initial concept to final execution.
ART 349: Introduction to Animation
This course introduces students to motion design and animation fundamentals, beginning with accessible, traditional animation techniques and progressing into digital environments. Students will develop an understanding of the pre-production process and gain insight into standard animation workflows.
ART 651: Motion Design I
This course expands animation knowledge in Adobe After Effects, focusing on motion design principles, visual storytelling, and applying traditional design skills to time-based media.
ART 652: 3D Motion Design
This course introduces students to Cinema 4D and the complete 3D design workflow, from modeling and texturing to animation and rendering. With a strong emphasis on creative storytelling and design, students will explore how 3D techniques can be applied across print, packaging, and motion graphics.
Discover the full Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Motion Design and Animation) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are well-equipped for a broad range of dynamic, creative careers across diverse industries. They complete the program with strong practical skills, technical expertise, and a polished professional portfolio, positioning them as competitive candidates for immediate employment or advanced graduate study.
Motion Graphics Designer
Motion graphics designers create animated visuals for commercials, social media, titles, and branding using After Effects and Cinema 4D tools. They produce impactful graphics that support communication goals for agencies, studios, or marketing teams.
3D Animator
3D animators model, rig, and animate characters or objects for film, games, simulations, and advertising. They demonstrate expertise in movement, timing, storytelling, and software such as Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine.
Visual Effects (VFX) Artist
Visual effects (VFX) artists create digital effects that enhance live-action footage for film and TV, collaborating with directors and post-production teams to seamlessly blend animated elements with real-world scenes.
Storyboard Artist
Storyboard artists visualize scripts by sketching frame-by-frame sequences that guide directors, animators, and editors. The role demands strong drawing skills and a keen sense of cinematic timing and composition.
Video Editor
Video editors assemble footage, audio, and effects to create polished videos for commercials, films, music videos, or education. They combine technical skills and creative judgment to craft cohesive stories.
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 discover their interests align with related disciplines at Fort Hays State University. The following programs provide complementary skills and expand potential career opportunities:
- 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
Animation, motion graphics, VFX, and storyboarding positions in the entertainment, education, and advertising industries.
Motion design emphasizes graphic-based storytelling and time-based media, while animation can involve character or cinematic development.
Techniques taught include stop-motion, 2D/3D animation, and real-time motion. Tools include Adobe Suite, Cinema 4D, and Unreal Engine.
Many students pursue game design careers by specializing in animation, visual development, or environment design.
Admission requires passing a BFA portfolio review with a 2.8 GPA and a score of at least 100/160 on the portfolio assessment. Students have two chances.
Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts
The School of Visual and Performing Arts at FHSU inspires creativity within a supportive and passionate community. Each program in Art and Design, along with Music and Theatre, offers students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether students aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, expert faculty provide hands-on learning experiences that both inspire and challenge.
With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, students gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in their chosen fields. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, these programs equip students with the tools to make a lasting impact in the world of visual and performing arts.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA): Connect with industry professionals and fellow graphic design students, attend conferences, and expand your network.
- Arts for Social Change: Use art as a catalyst for positive social change through lectures, workshops, and public events.
- Ceramica Clay Club (CCC): Participate in ceramic workshops, art events, and interdisciplinary projects that spread art into the community.
- FHSU Theater: Dive into acting, writing, and directing through performances and peer education programs.
- Fe Sculpture Club: Explore metalworking and host art events both on campus and in the community.
- Interior Design Student Organization (IDSA): Prepare for a career in interior design through networking, field trips, and professional development.
- Creative Arts Society (CAS): Enhance diversity and culture through guest-artist lectures, workshops, and community art projects.
- Collaborative Art Project (CAP): The Collaborative Art Project is a partnership between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, FHSU students, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK). Schmierbach and the students lead workshops for DSNWK individuals, offering structured art experiences focused on weaving, drawing, and photography. The project aims to expand access to the arts within the Hays community, creating more opportunities for individuals to engage with and benefit from artistic expression.
- Art Eaters Art History Club: The Art Eaters Art History Club is a community dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of art across cultures and throughout history. Open to all students regardless of experience, the club offers opportunities to explore art movements, artists, and various forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for the arts, the club also connects members with influential figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills such as curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, the club cultivates a deeper understanding of art’s cultural significance.
- Tiger Marching Band: This group is open to all students who enjoy marching band and want to be a part of the Tiger Marching Band tradition.
- Pep Band: The FHSU pep band provides musical entertainment for FHSU Basketball games. Open to all students.
- Collegiate National Association for Music Education (CNAfME): This student organization is dedicated to developing music education professionals, including workshops, training, field experiences, and annual participation in the Kansas Music Educators Association state conference in Wichita.
- Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (S-NATS): Vocalists participate in workshops, training, and attendance at the regional NATS workshop and competition each fall.
- Music Theatre: Participate in a fully realized stage production produced each year, from a stage role to back-stage positions and technical support.
- Certificate
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
