ANFX BS Program

From Imagination to Screen

Transform stories into visual reality through masterful animation, cutting-edge visual effects, and boundary-breaking technical innovation.

Master the Art of Visual Storytelling

Drexel's Animation & Visual Effects program trains the next generation of creative storytellers in the art of 3D computer graphics. Our studio-based curriculum combines technical expertise with artistic vision, preparing students for the dynamic world of digital entertainment and beyond.

Through our unique hybrid approach, you'll develop advanced skills in digital design while engaging in real-world projects that matter. Whether you're creating immersive 3D environments, developing interactive experiences, or pushing the boundaries of animation, our program provides the technical expertise and creative foundation needed for success in the digital media landscape.

What You'll Learn

Master your craft. On every level.

From the fundamentals of storytelling to cutting-edge motion capture, master the complete pipeline that brings unforgettable characters and stories to the screen.

Character Design

Character design will show you how to create memorable characters that transcend the screen, combining artistic vision with technical excellence.

Student animation storyboard example showing a character who finds a dead waitress in a room with a fireplace

Storyboarding

Transform raw ideas into compelling visual sequences through storyboarding, mapping the journey from concept to final frame.

Pitch deck showing a visual story

Scripting & Storytelling

Craft narratives through scripting and storytelling that captivate audiences while mastering the structural foundations of powerful visual storytelling.

3D model of a desk with books and glass jars glowing in sunlight

3D Modeling

Build intricate digital worlds and characters through 3D modeling, crafting everything from organic forms to complex environments.

Rig model of an ant

Rigging

Through expert rigging, engineer the underlying architecture that brings digital characters to life, from subtle expressions to dynamic movement.

A student's face and a 3D model linked in a motion capture project

Motion Capture

Harness motion capture technology to translate human performance into digital artistry with unprecedented precision.

A student working to position an arm on a character in a motion capture project

Compositing

Master the art of compositing to blend reality and imagination seamlessly, crafting visual layers that transform raw footage into cinematic masterpieces.

The Animation and Visual Effects program focuses on 3D animation and a wide range of topics that fall under the larger umbrella of visual effects. We prepare students not only for careers in entertainment but also in fields such as science, engineering, communications, and education, where animated content plays a crucial role in communicating ideas effectively.

Starting freshman year, students train to be CG generalists, meaning you'll learn all the core skills involved in a 3D animated production like 3D modeling, texturing and surfacing, rigging, animation, lighting, rendering, tool writing, and compositing. After the foundational courses, students can choose to specialize in one of four areas: animation, modeling, virtual production, or continue with the generalist route. These concentrations help define a path forward while still giving you the flexibility to customize your studies to suit their goals.

Milady Bridges
Program Director
Animation & Visual Effects

All eyes on you

Explore student work in the DIGM Innovation Gallery