Why Study Animation & Illustration at Vermont State?
State-of-the-Art Technology
Our three computer labs, animation illustration studio, two art studios, and photo lab have everything you need to explore your creativity, including a wacom tablet at each computer station in the Animation Illustration studio, digital cameras and Dragon Frame software for stop motion animation, digital video recorders, tripods, light kits, and a 3D printer. With 24-hour access to the studio and all software licenses included in your tuition and course fees, you can create without limits.
Industry-Standard Software
Graduate ready for top illustration and animation jobs with deep experience using the software and tech employed in the industry today. You’ll build your skills with tools including ToonBoom Harmony (the industry standard 2D animation program), the full Adobe Creative Suite, AfterEffects, and Autodesk Maya.
Extensive Real-World Experience
Move beyond classroom theory to real-world application.
During your junior and senior years in the program, you’ll participate in the Animation Illustration Workshop, a series of practicum-based courses that allow you to work on real animation and Illustration projects for local and regional businesses. For example, students have been selected to work and get paid to create illustrations for the pod cast But Why? Interested in working with our students? Send us your proposal.
Each year advanced students have the opportunity to visit the Ottawa International Animation Festival, where they can network with top animation companies and learn more about getting into the field of animation.
You’ll graduate with confidence and connections as you step into your career.
The Vermont Animation Festival
The Vermont Animation Festival has been hosted on the Vermont State University-Lyndon campus since 2015. The festival attracts artists from around the world and gives our students a chance to showcase their work, design posters, and merchandise, take leadership roles as teaching assistants, and even lead screenings and film analysis for the public.
Graduate Success
Our graduates are the best evidence of the strength of our program. B.F.A. in Animation & Illustration alumni have found positions at top companies including 3D modeling and animation jobs storyboarding for Paw Patrol and working at Vermont Public, Alex and Ani, Basketville, ALKU, and Lego.
Access to Expert Faculty
Grow your abilities and your passion under expert faculty guidance. Our small class sizes ensure individualized attention and support while you train with faculty who are active professionals with extensive industry experience outside the classroom.
Toon Boom Center of Excellence
VTSU’s Animation & Illustration program has achieved a ToonBoom Center of Excellence designation. Learn more.
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Sample Courses
- Visual Narrative
- 3D Modeling for Games and Animation
- Children’s Book Illustration
- Animation Illustration Workshop I
Student Stories
“The teachers and classes all prepare you for what you’re going to be doing after college. The biggest thing is getting your name out there. All my professors have been telling me this. I’ve always had great teachers who are really responsive and definitely there if you need help.”
Electra Poulson
“I love the artistic side of game design, and I want to incorporate that into what I do. Game design is a growing field, and it’s cool because there’s a lot of experimentation going on.”
Sophia Ruiz
Meet Our Faculty
Professor, Animation Illustration Program Coordinator, Graphic Design Program Coordinator
Lyndon Campus
