Animation & Games
Undergraduates in the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology begin their coursework learning the foundations of computer animation, game studies, UX/UI design, motion graphics, digital fabrication, and media histories. In their third year of study, students have the option to select a concentration in Animation and Games, Critical Media Studies, or Emerging Media Arts.
Students who wish to specialize in Animation and Games (A&G) within the Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication major may apply to be admitted into the concentration after consultation with their academic advisor. A&G provides a thorough grounding in the development and creation of digital animation and games, including 3D computer animation, motion graphics, motion capture, educational games, real-time entertainment, and social gaming. Students are eligible to apply to A&G during their third semester at the Bass School.
A&G students have the opportunity to work in a studio environment, explore visual narrative, game mechanics and experimental animation, and learn project development and management practices. The concentration examines the potential of animation and games in diverse areas such as entertainment, education, and visualization. Close consultation with academic advisors is recommended.
The UT Dallas undergraduate catalog lists courses and additional requirements for the BA in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication with Animation and Games.
The Studio Process
The Bass School’s Animation Lab provides an opportunity for students to take part in a simulated animation studio experience, where a crew of 40 students work for two semesters in assigned roles to write, design and produce a two-minute CG animated short film. Although faculty provides the schedule and pipeline structure, students drive the content and daily production. By working in this innovative environment, students gain a wealth of experience in creative problem-solving, people management and collaboration.
The Animated Short – ‘Octo Ninja’
“Octo Ninja” is a ridiculous comedy that follows our eight-legged hero as he battles his way to the final confrontation with his “squidy” arch-nemesis.
Read about “Octo Ninja,” the story, concept development and characters.
The Making of ‘Octo Ninja’
Hear from directors, producers and team leads what it took to take “Octo Ninja” from concept to production.
See more about the concept to the production process.
Meet the Crew
A team of students mentored by faculty collaborate to create an animated short in two semesters.
Meet the crew of “Octo Ninja” and the roles they played to bring this animated short to life.
Fast Facts About UTD Animation and Games
- Undergraduate Game Design ranks No. 1 in Texas and No. 19 in the U.S. (Princeton Review 2023)
- Graduate Game Design ranks No. 2 in Texas and No. 13 in the U.S. (Princeton Review 2023)
- Animation is No. 2 in Texas and No. 7 among U.S. public schools (Animation Career Review 2023)
Houdini Certification
The Bass School is a Certified Partner of SideFX, the developers of the procedural 3D art software Houdini. Certification means that our students have demonstrated exceptional skill using the industry-leading tool favored by professional technical artists working in the film, television, and games industries.
•• Multiple Houdini Courses | • Single Houdini Course | ☼ Houdini available for Project/Studio Use
Featured Projects
Students and faculty explore the evolution of media and technology to create innovations that shape how we live, work, and play. We are makers who learn through doing. We believe that making is a method, a process, and a way of thinking. The Bass School maker-culture blends art, technology, the humanities, science, robotics, and programming to design technological experiences that shape the future.
Learn more about these Animation and Games projects and meet the student crews.
Research Labs & Creative Practice Studios
We believe if you can imagine it, we can make it. At the Bass School, students use critical analysis, creative thinking, and ethical reasoning to explore the how and why of media. Students and faculty conduct art-based research in one of 19 research labs and creative practice studios. Bass School students are encouraged to explore new interests, sharpen skills, and build their portfolios.
Learn about Bass School Research Labs and creative practice studios.
Alumni Spotlight
Pixar animator and alum Sean Muriithi shares his story about his experience at the Bass School, starting out as a Pixar intern, and the advice he would give to students beginning their studies in Animation and Games.
Learn more about Muriithi’s most recent work in Pixar’s feature film “Soul” and what it was like working in their internal “Circle of Trust.”