​MIAD is excited to announce the launch of its Animation track within the Illustration major. MIAD’s Illustration major has seen exponential growth over the past five years and ranks among the best regionally and nationally. In 2021, Animation Career Review ranked MIAD’s program #1 in Wisconsin and among the top 10 in the Midwest. The strength of the curriculum, faculty and facilities provides a solid foundation for the Animation track.

“We designed MIAD’s new Animation track to give our students a structured, hands-on experience with a variety of different animation approaches, as well as the freedom to choose electives that deeply align with their personal passions,” said Adam Osgood, associate professor in Illustration with an emphasis on animation and motion-based illustration. 

“Dali” animated GIF by MIAD sophomore Sammi Micklewright

Preparation for in-demand careers

MIAD created the Animation track in response to growing student interest in bringing illustrated images to life with a focus on visual storytelling in digital forms. Combining illustration and animation with the professional focus at the core of MIAD’s program prepares students for versatile careers in industries such as TV/film production, computer systems design, video game design, software publishing, advertising, marketing, data visualization, and medical, architectural or crime scene animation.

MIAD’s Illustration program is one of the most attractive in the nation because of the expansive nature of the curriculum, and professional work in editorial and pattern design as well as corporate sector and advertising design. The Animation track allows students to explore additional media including 2D, 3D and interactive animation, virtual reality and video games. Electives and animation-focused professional practice coursework cultivates students’ individual interests and career preparation. 

“I can’t wait to see all of the GIFs, music videos, app ideas, game demos and 3D printed collectibles our students produce with these skills,” Osgood said. “I’m especially eager to see how they surprise us with these tools, and think of new ways to tell engaging stories and solve illustration problems.”

Learn more

For more information, future students can contact the MIAD Admissions Office at admissions@miad.edu. Current students: Please contact Andy Bernier, chair of Illustration, at andrewbernier@miad.edu or Jean Weimer, registrar, at jeanweimer@miad.edu.

“Kindred” animation by MIAD graduate Camyrn Schake ’21 (Illustration)