The animation program is taught by over 30 professionals from the field. Those of traditionally animated works include Mario Menjivar ("The Lion King"), Doug Crane ("Scooby Doo", "Flintstones"), and Don Duga ("Frosty the Snowman"). Many graduates have gone on to work in such studios as, Disney, Pixar, Dreamworks SKG, Blue Sky Studio and Nickelodeon. Notable animation alumni include, Yvette Kaplan ("Ice Age", "Beavis and Butthead"), and Alex Kuperschmidt ("Lion King", "Bolt").
Students can expect to be immersed in all aspects of animation--design, directing, editing, cinematography, lighting--and can earn a Bachelors of Fine Art in Animation after completing 120 credits. This breaks down to: 72 credits in studio, 30 credits in humanities & sciences, 12 credits in art history, and 6 credits in open electives.
SVA students learn animation techniques on the same equipment used by industry professionals. The computer lab is set up so each student can work at his own station complete with scanner and using such programs as Video Lunch Box and Pro Tools, with compatible special effects software. Those who choose to work in film, are afforded the opportunity to work with Bolex and Oxberry cameras. And for students interested in claymation, there is a brand new stop-motion studio.
To apply, prospective students should contact the SVA Office of Admissions for a complete admissions packet. Aside from the usual requirements of a high school transcript and SAT/ACT test scores, students also need to submit a statement of intent and a portfolio of recent work. International applicants have additional requirements.
Depending on your needs, there are other schools worth looking into.
New York University, located in New York, NY, offers a couple of options. The NYU School of Continuing Education and Professional Studies has semesters devoted to animation that include traditional methods and will give you a certification in animation. For those seeking a degree, NYU's Tisch School of Arts has a strong Film and TV program, which offers a minor in animation. In addition, Pratt Institute, which is located in Brooklyn, NY, also offers a BFA in 2D Animation.