Master of Design, Specialization in Animation
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MS in Speech-Language PathologyWith a focus on animation content development and digital technologies, the Master of Design (MDes) with a Specialization in Animation is the perfect incubator for your creative ideas and animation career. Two years and 60 units to complete this degree.
The MDes program with a specialization in Animation is a rigorous graduate program aimed at students and professionals who have achieved a solid command of their areas of interest, and want to further develop their portfolios, intellectual property (IP) potential, artistic voices, as well as their technical skills.
Our program benefits from a close relationship with various games, VR, AR, and animation studios in California and beyond. As a student, you have access to tremendous opportunities for learning the latest techniques, portfolio review, and networking with professionals in the industry. You will experience expanding your creativity, exploring ideas through project-based learning leading to the production of original IP content, and employment in feature film animation, TV, games, and virtual and augmented reality studios.
Program Snapshot
60
units
Fall
admission
Master of Design (Animation) Program Overview
Through San Jose State University's Master of Design with a Specialization in Animation degree, you can gain the skills that give you a competitive edge to stand out in an industry that thrives on creativity and collaboration. In this video, the faculty discuss the curriculum and industry experience the students gain from this program.
Why get a Master of Design (Animation) from SJSU?
SJSU's Master of Design with a Specialization in Animation program pushes students to get out of their comfort zone and empowers them to produce films and games. Hear from SJSU students on what they've gained while getting an Animation degree from SJSU.
SJSU MDes in Animation Students talking
Career Opportunities
- The BLS reports that about 6,700 openings for special effects artists and animators are projected each year over the next decade.
- San Francisco and Los Angeles are listed as the top two cities for animation careers in North America according to animationcareerreview.com.
- Businessofanimation.com mentions that some of the top-grossing movies in 2021 were animated films according to Box Office Mojo.
The professors are very passionate about getting the students to succeed, and the program is also industry-focused and teaches you skills you can apply to the industry.
Alisa Ren
Master of Design Student
Apply To The Program
Learn more about how to apply below.
- Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA 2.5
- Portfolio of work
- Official transcripts
- A personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- A resumé
- A “pre-proposal” with an indication of the type of project you want to develop while in the MDes program
- International students must demonstrate English language proficiency
* Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the program.
- How to Apply
- Step 1: Apply to Cal State Apply and submit the required documents
- Step 2: Submit an online portfolio of work and additional documents to the Department of Design via a Slideroom portal.
For details on the application process visit the Master of Design page.
- Application Deadlines
Fall 2025
- Application deadline: March 1, 2025
*These dates are not final and are subject to change.
- FAQ
For a full list of FAQs please visit the Master of Design page.
Events
Webinars are held each semester. Check back for updated event information.
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