Thinking about an Animation with Illustration degree? Discover what to look for, from 2D and 3D animation and illustration skills to portfolio development.
Choosing a creative degree is a big decision. You are not just choosing what you will study for the next three years; you are also starting to shape the skills, portfolio and creative direction that could influence your future career.
If you are interested in both animation and illustration, an animation with illustration degree could offer the best of both worlds. But with different courses available, what should you look for when deciding which one is right for you?
Look at the balance between animation and illustration
First, check exactly what the course covers. Animation and illustration are closely connected, but they involve different skills.
A strong animation with illustration degree should give you opportunities to develop both. For example, you might study 2D animation alongside illustration, then progress into 3D animation, modelling, motion graphics and more specialised projects.
This breadth can be particularly useful if you are not yet certain whether you want to become an animator, illustrator, concept artist or another type of creative professional.
Find out how much practical work you will do
Animation and illustration are creative disciplines, so practical experience is extremely important.
When comparing an animation degree, look for a course where you will actually be making things rather than spending most of your time studying theory. Projects can help you turn what you learn into work that you can eventually include in your portfolio.
Check the illustration side of the course
If illustration is one of the reasons you are considering this type of degree, make sure it is genuinely integrated into the course rather than simply appearing in the title.
Look for opportunities to develop fundamental drawing and visual communication skills, as well as your own creative style. That combination can help you develop skills that are useful across animation, publishing, games, visual development and other creative industries.
Consider 2D and 3D skills
You don’t necessarily have to choose between traditional and digital approaches. Modern animation can involve everything from hand-drawn and digital 2D animation to 3D modelling and animation.
If you are choosing a degree now, it is worth finding out whether you will have the opportunity to explore both.
Learning 3D modelling, for example, can help you understand how characters and environments are constructed, while 2D animation can strengthen your understanding of movement, timing and visual storytelling.
Look at the portfolio opportunities
Your portfolio is likely to become one of the most important things you take away from your degree. Employers and clients need to see what you can actually create, so look for a course that gives you plenty of opportunities to produce finished work.
Portfolio development should ideally happen throughout your degree rather than being something you think about in your final few weeks. It is also worth checking whether the course helps you develop an online portfolio, showreel or other professional materials.
Find out about industry connections
Creative industries are constantly evolving, so industry awareness can be just as valuable as technical skills. Look at whether tutors have professional industry experience and whether the course has connections with creative organisations or industry professionals.
The Futureworks animation with illustration course is developed in consultation with an industry advisory group, while tutors bring professional experience into the classroom. Students can also have opportunities to develop industry contacts during their studies.
Think about your future career
Finally, consider where the course could take you. An animation with illustration degree does not limit you to one particular job.
Potential career paths can include 2D or 3D animator, character animator, storyboard artist, concept artist, character designer, visual development artist, illustrator, comic artist, digital artist and motion graphics designer.
The key is to develop a portfolio that reflects your interests and demonstrates the skills employers or clients are looking for.
Choosing the right animation degree
The best course for you is one that matches your creative interests while giving you room to experiment and develop.
When comparing an animation with illustration degree, look beyond the course title. Check the balance of animation and illustration, practical projects, 2D and 3D opportunities, facilities, portfolio development, teaching and industry connections.
Most importantly, think about whether you can see yourself enjoying the work. If you are excited by drawing, storytelling, characters, movement, digital creativity and bringing ideas to life, an Animation with Illustration degree could be a great starting point for a creative career.