Attention:

Northern Vermont University is now part of Vermont State University! Please visit VermontState.edu for accurate information.

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Northern Vermont University will join with Castleton University and Vermont Technical College to become Vermont State University on July 1, 2023.

Visit VermontState.edu to learn more about Animation & Illustration for fall 2023.

Learn More and Apply

Make your mark with a degree in animation and illustration at Northern Vermont University.

Our bachelor of fine arts degree program in animation and illustration gives motivated, talented visual artists the training in drawing and storytelling to develop a unique “visual voice.” Small classes (capped at 18 students), expert faculty, and a curriculum that is updated regularly will prepare you to stand out in the creative job marketplace.

Whether you’re hoping to work as an illustrator for print or create time-based media like video games and animation, the animation and illustration program will prepare you to hit the ground running after graduation.

Flexibility to Pursue Your Goals and Interests

Northern Vermont University-Lyndon Visual Arts programs share a common core, making it easy for most students to switch majors without extending their time in college. This gives you the flexibility to explore your interests and make adjustments to your path if your goals change as you learn and grow.

As a student in this program, you will build on your already-strong drawing skills through coursework and real-world projects that turn your passion for art and drawing, your hard work, focus, and creativity, into a professional portfolio and resume that will stand out to prospective employers after graduation.

CAREERS FOR VISUAL ARTS STUDENTS

Our alumni keep good company — you’ll find Lyndon visual arts graduates in nationally and globally recognized companies, working behind the scenes on television and web shows, and creating to the local and regional creative economy as they start their own shops or work as freelancers. Here are just some of the places and career paths Lyndon visual arts graduates have gone on to.

Employers of Recent Lyndon Alumni

Zutano logo    Dog Mountain Logo
Levis logo      Life is good logo

NBC logo          Lego logo

Career Paths for Visual Arts Majors

Illustrators
Animators
Scenic Designer
Game Designer
Storyboard Artist
3D Modeling
Concept Artist
Children’s Book Illustrator and/or Writer
Character Designer
3D Animator
Character Technical Rigger
Digital Molder
Traditional 2D Animator
Commercial Illustrator
Publication Illustrator

Quick Sketch Artist
Set Designer
Book Cover Illustrator
Advertising Illustrator
Greeting Card Illustrator
Graphic Novel Artist
Cartoonist
Mural Artist
Computer Game Illustrator
Interaction Designer
UI/Interface Designer
Narrative Designer
Mobile Game/App Designer
Molder/Texturer

FACILITIES

As a student in an NVU-Lyndon visual arts degree program, you’ll have access to our excellent facilities and equipment —during and outside of class— to help you realize your vision, build skills, and amass experience that will help you land the career you want after you graduate. Our three computer labs, two art studios, and one photo lab are equipped with the tools you’ll need to work. Digital cameras, digital video recorders, tripods, light kits, iPads and Wacom tablets are available for loan to our students. Software applications, updated annually on our computers, include Adobe Creative Suite Premium, Maya, and Final Cut Pro, Barcode Producer, and Painter.

Design Studio – North

  • 19 top-of-the-line iMacs
  • 1 large format color laser printer
  • 1 large format inkjet printer
  • 1 large format scanner
  • Bindery equipment paper trimmers

 

Design Studio – South

  • 19 top-of-the-line iMacs
  • 1 large format color laser printer
  • 1 large format inkjet printer
  • 1 large format scanner
  • 5 animation bays

 

Annex Lab

  • 8 top-of-the-line iMacs with 24/7 access
  • 1 large format inkjet printer
  • 1 laser printer
  • 1 flatbed scanner
  • 1 animation bay

 

Drawing and Painting Studio

  • Drawing tables
  • Still-life setup
  • Life drawing setup
  • Visual presenter

Art Studio

  • Book binding equipment
  • Light tables
  • Sewing machines
  • Rotary paper trimmers
  • Handtools and basic power tools
  • Visual presenter
  • Print drying rack
  • Flat files
  • Student lockers

 

FACULTY

Our faculty care about your success and challenge you to develop professional skills that make you ready for the workplace immediately after you graduate.

Two female students in an art classroom, holding paint brushes, working together at a table.

“The art professors have so much to offer. They’re here to support you and let you be creative without holding you back.”

- Lily Johnson ’17

APPLY TODAY. DO NORTH.

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