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Animation & Visual Effects

The Animation and Visual Effects Minor at Eastern Illinois University provides students with hands-on training in photography, video production, 3D modeling, animation, visual effects, and digital compositing using industry-standard tools and equipment. The program prepares students for careers in animation, visual effects, game development, and digital media production through a blend of creative and technical coursework.

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Animation & Visual Effects

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Degree Level
Minor
Delivery
In Person
Credit Hours
18 Total
Careers
Reporters,, Journalists, Photographers, Film, Editors
Animation & Visual Effects students at EIU

Why Study Animation & Visual Effects at EIU?

  • Hands-on experience with industry-standard software and professional equipment, including drones, studio lighting, and 3D animation tools.
  • Build a portfolio of creative work in animation, visual effects, 3D modeling, digital photography, and motion capture while completing coursework.
  • Small class sizes and personalized faculty support provide opportunities for individual mentorship and career preparation.
  • The Animation and VFX Minor pairs seamlessly with Digital Media Technology, allowing students to broaden both creative and technical skill sets.
  • Prepare for careers in animation, visual effects, game development, digital media production and other growing technology fields.
"I didn't expect to get real experience this early, but by my sophomore year I was already working on projects that felt like actual marketing work. It made me feel confident that I'm ready for what comes next."
Alex Wilcoxon
Marketing | Junior
Alex Wilcoxon, Marketing at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Create original animations, visual effects, and digital media projects using industry-standard software and professional production workflows.
  • Hands-on experience with advanced technology used throughout the digital media industry.
  • Build 3D models, animate characters and environments, and develop visual effects projects that strengthen your portfolio.
  • Apply lighting, texturing, rendering, and compositing techniques in project-based courses designed to mirror real-world creative production.
  • Collaborate with faculty on creative projects while developing the technical and problem-solving skills valued by employers.
Explore Courses
Hands-On Experience, Animation & Visual Effects students at EIU

What You'll Learn

The Animation and Visual Effects (VFX) Minor at Eastern Illinois University focuses on developing creative and technical skills in digital media production, including photography, 2D and 3D animation, modeling, lighting, texturing, rendering, and visual effects. Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard software and equipment such as DSLR cameras, studio lighting, drones, and 3D animation tools.

View in Catalog
$73,345
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • News Analysts, Reporters, &…
  • Photographers
  • Film & Video Editors
  • Audio & Video Technicians
  • Lighting Technicians
  • Special Effects Artists & Animators
  • Art, Drama, & Music Teachers,…

Career Insights

Job Outlook Average Outlook
Preparation Needed Considerable (4/5)
Personality Fit Artistic

Connect With Us

Jay Grabiec
Instructor | Photographer | Program Coordinator of BSc in Digital Media Technology
jjgrabiec@eiu.edu
1021 Klehm Hall
217-581-7259
Jay Grabiec Message Jay

Message Jay

or email jjgrabiec@eiu.edu directly
Gabe Grant
Professor and Chairperson
gjgrant@eiu.edu
1030 Klehm Hall
217-581-5762
Gabe Grant Message Gabe

Message Gabe

or email gjgrant@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

Message Billy

or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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