Expert: Russell Calabrese - 1/8/2012

Question
QUESTION: Hi Russell

Would it be possible to start off with a BA in a social science like psychology, and then get an MFA in animation? I love animation and the arts, but somehow the intellectual side of me is tugging the other way, and well, Psychology+animation=potent?

Thanks!

ANSWER: Hi Jill,

The MFA in animation will only help you if you want to teach animation at the college/university level. You do not need that degree to do animation professionally. If you plan on teaching something else, go with that path.

Hope this helps.

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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Russell,

I'd like to do animation professionally, and I personally don't have any plans to start teaching. Would the MFA still me alright in this situation?

Thanks!

Jill

Answer
Hello Jill,

Learn how to do animation and put together a sample reel of your work and a portfolio of your artistic skills. That's what people are going to look at when they want to hire you, not a degree.

As I said before, don't waste the time on a MFA on a subject that won't help you unless you wanted to teach.
If you want to get a Masters degree be practical and get an MBA so you can understand the business world. Animation production is a business and the MBA would help more than the MFA. That would be time better spent at University. You can still work in animation while you go to school if you like. Choose which path you prefer to take later. You may not like working in animation (it's quite a grind!) and with an MBA you can get into almost any field you might want to pursue later.


Hope this helps.

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