Undergraduate | Media Arts

3D Computer Animation

Clockwise from left: Yeji Kang, Sarah Cartlidge, Daisy Huang & Scarlett Zhou.

For creative thinkers who want to bring their visions to life in 3D.

Emily Carr is the only school in British Columbia to offer a bachelor’s degree in 3D and CG animation. Ranked one of the best animation programs in the world and the top program of its kind in Western Canada, our 3D Computer Animation program provides an unparalleled education in a fast and exciting industry.

What You Will Learn

Our 3D Computer Animation Major will give you all the skills you need to succeed in this competitive industry. You'll spend time in the classroom and the studio, covering everything from the history of design to the latest visual effects techniques.

Students master computer animation techniques, such as 3D modelling, texturing, grading, lighting and rendering. Character animation, filmmaking, storytelling, and production methodology. All of these skills will come together in the creation of your own graduation film.

You'll hone these creative skills while learning from the best animators in the industry. If you want a program built around new and innovative media—one that allows you to partner with international institutes and work across film production, video game development, research, and more—then this is the program for you.

This intensive program will prepare you to step into the industry as an animator, commercial artist, or independent filmmaker. Upon graduation, you’ll have created a short animated film that showcases your skills and celebrates your unique vision.

“It’s not only about having a technical vision. It’s about breaking it down into small practical steps. You could have dreams, but if you can’t apply them then they’re just hallucinations. If you can apply them, then you’re now a part of a creative society, because you've actually built something.”

Amir Tamadon

Program Structure

Credits: 120
Year 1: First-Year Foundation Studies
Year 2-4: 3D Animation courses and electives
Designation: Bachelor of Media Arts, Majoring in 3D Computer Animation (BMA, 3D Computer Animation)
Faculty: The Ian Gillespie Faculty of Design + Dynamic Media

For application information, including admission requirements, see Admissions.

Example Courses

3DAN 203: Intro to 3D Character Animation
3DAN 207: 3D Character Creation 1
3DAN 225: Digital Compositing 1
3DAN 235: 3D Layout and Cinematography
3DAN 300: Preproduction for 3D Animation
3DAN 305: Look Development for 3D Computer Animation
3DAN 400: Senior 3D Animation Production
3DAN 415: Lighting + Rendering Projects

Students also have the opportunity to complete a Minor in Curatorial Studies, Art + Text, or Social Practice + Community Engagement.

Shops + Studios

Studio culture is at the heart of your educational experience at Emily Carr, as spaces where you can create, learn, collaborate, experiment, and play.

Animation students have access to our spacious and well-equipped shops and studios, including our Animation Studio, which offers access to industry-standard 2D, 3D and post-production software. You will also work in our stop-motion studios and editing suites, Film + Screen Arts Studio, and Sound Lab, among others.

Each space is maintained by expert technical staff who collaborate with faculty and staff to provide students with instruction and guidance. Technical staff ensure safe and accessible working environments and lead instructional workshops to enhance your learning.

Beyond the Classroom

A BMA is about so much more than what you'll learn in the classroom—it's also about the vibrant community you'll join during your studies.

As an Animation student, you'll be part of a dynamic arts community both locally and internationally. The 3D Computer Animation Major is designed to give students as many professional development opportunities as possible, including but not limited to:

Regular speakers and events, including the DDM Speaker Series
Admission to festivals, conferences and networking events with notable animation artists and industry leaders
Connections with local animation studios.
Internships, grants, and research opportunities, including through the Basically Good Media Lab.
Use of ECU's creative production facilities.
Industry experience and work-integrated learning opportunities facilitated by our Careers team.
Connections with local studios, shops, and labs outside ECU.

Meet Your Future Community

Alisha Steinberger + Goody Chao Wu

At the Ottawa International Animation Festival.

Amir Tamadon

Taking On the World of VR.

Ivan Li

Showing at VIFF.

Where ECU Can Take You

Graduates of the 3D Computer Animation Major bring many in-demand skills to the job market, from advanced technical abilities to critical knowledge. Our graduates regularly land jobs at impressive studios, including DreamWorks Animation, Pixar, Universal, National Film Board, more. Many have gone on to become professional filmmakers who screen their work at international festivals.

Upon graduation, students follow a variety of career paths and roles:

CG artist roles in a variety of sectors:
- Feature Film and Television
- Filmmaking
- Virtual and augmented reality and Visualization
- Game design
- Motion graphics and advertising

Studio supervisors
Work in the cultural sector, including auteur film-making and gallery exhibition
Graduate studies and further education

Our graduates regularly land jobs at impressive studios, including DreamWorks Animation, Pixar, Industrial Light and Magic, Universal, National Film Board, more. Many have gone on to become professional filmmakers who screen their work at international festivals.

Prepare to Apply Faculty of Design + Dynamic Media Visit Us