I don't know where to go... SVA or UCF (or Ringling) for animation? Help!

JBStillFlying
Thu, 04 May 2017 16:59:18 +0000

@cheesenachos1 - sorry for coming in on this discussion late, but my daughter was looking at both UCF and SCAD last year so was kind of in the same boat as you. She had a sizable OOS scholarship to UCF and really liked what she saw of the program; however, you are correct that you don’t apply to animation till Winter of Sophomore year, after taking the pre-req. drawing and other courses. UCF didn’t require a portfolio when you were admitted so you’ll need to present them with one to be approved for your major. When we toured in Feb. of last year, only about 1/3 of those who applied were accepted to animation on their first try. Others get in on second try and still others do the experimental track (I think that’s what it’s called? Can’t remember) which uses some of the same facilities (downtown Orlando, away from the main campus. Hopefully they have a shuttle going that way now - when we toured they didn’t but then they announced a major downtown expansion shortly afterward so hopefully transportation between the two campuses is more resolved). Honestly, either track should prepare you well for work in the animation field. However, SVA or Ringling are more prestigious so all else equal would be the better option if you can swing the cost. BTW, don’t rule out the illustration major for an animator career. The importance of being an animator is that you can tell a story with your pictures. Such is the case with both animation and illustration. If Ringling turns out to be the better fit overall, you can most likely make a successful go of it doing illustration.

Good luck to you!