Updated December 2023
Think you might want to pursue a career in 2D animation? Now is an excellent time to get started.
Even before the pandemic, there was so much animation work flowing through Canadian cities that studios couldn't find enough qualified people to meet production needs.
And when live-action productions were forced to shut down, the demand for animated content really took off.
That's where Herzing College's accelerated 2D animation course comes in. Our mission is to expand the local animation scene by producing skilled graduates who can fill those available studio jobs.
This program teaches the software and real animation skills you need to get hired—in just 12 months of training.
What makes Herzing's 2D animation course so unique? Here's what you can expect in class.
Laser FOCUS ON toon boom 2D ANIMATION SOFTWARE
Herzing's 2D animation training is specifically designed to meet the needs of Canadian animation studios.
What's the greatest need studios have right now? They want people who know their way around Toon Boom Harmony—the software of choice for 2D animators.
Herzing's program was created for the sole purpose of teaching this software. The laser focus on Toon Boom is what really sets this program apart.
In fact, Toon Boom was the main reason Megan Winters chose Herzing for animation training.
"With other 2D animation courses, you have to wait longer to get your hands on the software.
I didn't want to wait. I wanted to learn Toon Boom Harmony right away, so I could get to work faster. Knowing this software is key to getting hired in the animation industry."
Example of work Megan did in class using Toon Boom Harmony
Hands-on training in core 2d Animation skills
Herzing's 2D animation course is all about doing. We don't spend as much time on the theory and history of animation, like in longer diploma or degree programs.
Instead, students jump right into animating, using industry software and building the core skills every studio wants, such as:
- Simple and complex character rigging
- Character and prop interaction
- Staging
- Lip synch animation
- Posing
- Character animation
- Storyboarding
All skills are developed through projects that simulate real studio assignments. You'll work with actual scenes and character rigs/props, and within typical industry deadlines.
You'll also complete a major project that ties together all the skills covered in class. Megan says this aspect of training was the most rewarding.
"We get seven weeks to make a highly polished character and storyboard…we go through every step of the process. Seeing something you made move on the page is amazing!"
By the time you graduate, you'll have a professional demo reel you can show to potential employers. And you'll be ready to hit the ground running in a real studio environment.
AN exclusive INTERNSHIP at a major animation studio
Herzing's 2D animation course includes a six-week internship.
This work placement is one of the most unique and valuable aspects of the program. It's your chance to work at a leading studio, get mentored by experts, and gain experience for your demo reel and resume.
Imagine getting access to a real studio and learning from pros who work on iconic shows!
Many students get hired directly from their internships, so this kind of opportunity is a massive advantage when you're trying to break into the animation industry.
A POSITIVE learning ENVIRONMENT
Want to develop your 2D animation skills in an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration? At Herzing, students are encouraged to cooperate rather than compete.
Megan says the supportive environment was the best part of her training experience.
"At Herzing, the classroom is designed like a real studio setting. There's a family feeling. Everyone helps each other, we hang out and have fun. No stress," she told us.
"You get tons of practice, everyone shares their work, and we all help each other improve. Even people who started with zero experience really caught up and advanced throughout the course."
Example of Megan's animation work
CAREER ASSISTANCE
Every student in our 2D animation course gets help to find their first job. This includes:
- Help crafting a professional resume and cover letter
- Help putting together a professional demo reel
- Connections to local studios who hire our animation graduates
- Assistance locating and applying to animation jobs
- Mock interviews to build your confidence and communication skills
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 2D ANIMATION COURSE AT HERZING COLLEGE
Herzing's accelerated 2D animation course takes just 12 months from beginning to end and includes a six-week internship.
For complete program details, or to just explore your options, we recommend speaking with an admissions advisor.
An advisor can walk you through admission requirements, financial aid options, how to apply, and anything else you want to know.
Click below to get started. Browse the program, request free information, or chat online with an advisor right now. We're here to help!
