I am seeking perspectives and information regarding education in 3D Animation and special effects in the Phoenix Arizona area.
I have looked into the Art Institute of Phoenix and have talked to multiple people (current and past students) about the types of degrees and education they provide.
I was curious if anyone knows any other colleges (Besides UAT) that have a degree program the centers around The areas that I am looking for.
Currently Ai offers 2 degrees a degree in Animation (2d/3d/ect) as well as visual effects & motion graphics (effects for movies/broadcasts) Which seems to have a better job outlook after graduation, but not exactly what I want in terms of education in both fields.
Any constructive information you have would be appreciated.
Alrighty. What would an alternative be for my area though?
I’m having trouble locating anything in the area that would offer a degree or training in those areas.
Have you perused Taxguy’s and Digimedia’s missives on the CA industry? Keep a clear head when heading into the art field especially regarding finance and job outlook.
Full Sail and AI are both for-profit colleges that are extremely expensive for what they offer. That is not to say that they do not have some talented students in their ranks that have been successful. Full Sail has many more successful students between the two. (I don’t know any AI students in the industry to be frank). But I don’t know any FS students who just did on-line learning.
I 'm not familiar with Arizona schools so can’t help you there unfortunately. Have you crossed out UAT for some particular reason?..
Your state schools will always be cheaper and more affordable. But don’t limit your search locally
Some programs are computer based (with heavy math) and others more art based.
. I would discourage on-line learning programs.
If you want an ART school (Ringling, CalArts, SCAD) (expensive) but more dedicated to the career then it doesn’t matter where you live because they are mostly private (but non-profit) so there is one price (discounting scholarships) no matter what state you live in. Depending on your talent, you’ll want to look far beyond AZ to attend school. Scholarships will hinge on your portfolio. Look at the top schools for CA lists and start there. Go to a National Portfolio Day.
I have not looked into Taxguy or Digimedia but will do so after I write this.
It appears that anything route I go that keeps me in Arizona will put me and the financial mercy of a for profit college. Sadly I can’t leave the state quite yet for personal reasons. Going to school would basically fit the time just right to where things would be taken care of here.
I have decided against UAT due to the closest degree they have is for video game art and design, which isn’t specifically what I would want to study first.
The state schools here don’t offer much in the way of Animation, visual effects, or 3d modeling. ASU is the biggest school here and they really only offer traditionally drawn art classes from what I can see.
It seems like if I pursue what I want I could be stuck with a large amount of debt with either way I go. I appreciate the info though.
Don’t attend either for-profit college. If you go into large debt, you won’t be able to afford to work in the arts.
ASU is a huge school, with lots of courses, and is accredited, which will help you regarding future employment. Go there. Meet people who have similar interests.
There are many ways to learn 3D animation, video game art, etc., without specifically studying it during college. You may need to be creative in your approach, and of course determined.
Thank you WoodWinds, I was able to look into the program a little bit. I am planning on taking a tour soon as well as contacting students or groups that are there to see what information I can find.