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Center For Animation

Prospective Students

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BYU's Center for Animation is multi-disciplinary, consisting of students and faculty from multiple colleges on BYU campus. The Animation BFA (located in BYU's Design Department) and the Computer Science (CS): Animation & Games Emphasis (located in BYU's Computer Science Department) are nationally recognized. These programs focus on in-depth, production-based training for entry into the animation, gaming, and visual effects industries.

Both programs are closed-enrollment, where applications are carefully and thoughtfully reviewed by board members. Smaller class sizes allow for greater interaction between faculty and students. Student collaboration is an integral part of the curriculum.

To be admitted into either program, prospective students are to complete the following steps:

Step 1. Once accepted to Brigham Young University, declare pre-major intent in either the Animation (BFA) or Computer Science (CS): Animation and Games Emphasis (BS).
Step 2. Take DESAN 101. For the BFA - after taking DESAN 101, pass a review of completed work in order to move into the pre-major status.
Step 3. Finish BFA or CS Emphasis prerequisite classes and submit a portfolio for review by the board.
Step 4. Pass the Portfolio Review to be accepted into the major.

Use 'How to Apply' links below for more detailed information.

Animation (BFA)

Course Map
How to Apply

Animation Major

Course Map
FAQ
Student Examples

Computer Science: Animation and Games Emphasis (BS)

Course Map
How to Apply

CS Major with emphasis on Animation

Course Plan
FAQ
Student Examples
  • PLEASE NOTE: Acceptance to the animation program must first be preceded by acceptance to Brigham Young University (Provo, UT). A link to the BYU Admissions Services page may be found here.

    You do not need to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to be accepted into BYU or into the BYU Animation Program. However, if you are not a member, you will still be required to live the BYU Honor Code and complete the University General Education requirements. Such requirements include various math, English, history, and religion courses.

    If you have any questions about how to go about this process, you may either contact Becca Weidner (Pre-Animation BFA Advisor) at becca_weidner@byu.edu or Lynnette Nelson (CS Undergrad Advisor) at lnelson@cs.byu.edu.
  • Upon acceptance to the program, students can prepare by gaining an understanding of 3D software such as Maya or Blender (Maya is the main 3D software used in the Animation Program). Students may also find it helpful to be familiar with a digital art package like Photoshop.

    In order to become better artists and designers overall, we strongly recommend you practice drawing as much as you can. Gesture drawing, as well as the ability to draw in multiple styles, will be a useful skill no matter what field of animation you choose to pursue.

    Note: All Autodesk programs may be downloaded for free as a student license on the Autodesk website. Photoshop, along with all other Adobe Products, may be purchased at a monthly discounted student rate via Adobe Creative Cloud.

  • BYU Animation is a dynamic program that blends storytelling, artistry, and collaboration to prepare students for thriving careers in animation, special effects, and game industries. Through hands-on projects that emphasize teamwork, and guided by dedicated faculty, students enhance their creative narratives and hone their artistic skills. Successful students are self-motivated and work together to create a positive and supportive environment.



  • We fully support you serving a mission! If you choose to serve a mission after being accepted in the BYU Animation Program, you will not lose your place. More information on deferring school for missionary service can be found here.