Drexel University

Drexel University’s Animation & Visual Effects program is based in the Westphal College of Media, Arts & Design, a collaborative art and design center located within a broadly diverse, advanced research university in historic Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Thriving at the intersection of art and technology, the program aims to develop students’ understanding of centuries old principles of storytelling, motion, design and aesthetics while honing their ability to realize the full potential of these tenets by learning, leveraging, (and sometimes inventing) the latest technologies available in the industry today.

At the heart of the program is the Animation, Capture and Effects Lab (ACE-Lab), a large, advanced studio space, surrounded by classrooms, screening rooms, computer labs and student meeting spaces. Featuring a state of the art motion capture system, visual effects production tools, camera systems ranging from DSLRs, to 4k and stereoscopic 360° VR video systems and a full complement of shooting and lighting equipment, the facility and its resources are available for students to use for both classroom and personal projects. 

In addition to courses led by industry experienced faculty, Drexel features a six-month co-op program, during which students work in industry positions before entering their senior year, allowing them to graduate with real-world, working experience as well as a fully accredited degree. The program’s unique approach extends beyond traditional entertainment, to include the use of animation and visual effects in conjunction with a variety of disciplines including science, engineering, fashion, medicine, and education. As a result, alumni can often be found working in diverse industries as well as many of the world’s best animation and visual effects studios and productions.