Program Overview

Introduction to the Animation BFA and BA Programs

The Animation BFA and BA programs at DePaul require applicants to submit a creative statement and portfolio in addition to their online application.

Creative Statement

The creative statement is a personal essay that should be presentable and free of spelling and grammatical errors. It should be one to one and a half pages in length and address the following questions:

• What are your creative inspirations?
• Why do you want to study animation?
• Why are you applying to DePaul?

Creative Portfolio

The creative portfolio is a collection of examples that demonstrate your creativity and interests. Your work will be evaluated more for creative potential than on slick finish. No previous animation experience is required for acceptance.

Portfolio Requirements

Your portfolio should include one or more of the following:

• Scanned images
• Photos
• Video
• Stories

Images and Photos

Image or photo submissions should be kept to a total of 10-15 examples. These may include:

• Drawings
• Comics
• Sketches
• Doodles
• Digital art
• Designs
• Photography
• Storyboards
• Cartoons
• Paintings
• Illustrations
• Character designs
• 3D renders You can also include photos of your ceramics, costumes, sculptures, dioramas, sets, or puppets.

Video Submissions

A video submission should be no longer than 3 minutes. This can be a short film that shows your creativity, imagination, composition, and storytelling. It can be shot on a phone or camera. You can also include animation of any kind, such as stop motion, hand-drawn, 3D, or computer, but animation isn't required.

Story Submissions

Submissions of creative writing, poetry, or screenplays should be limited to 3 pages.

Evaluation Criteria

Your portfolio will be evaluated more for creative potential than on slick finish. While drawing ability helps in most areas of animation, it isn't necessary for all forms, such as 3D animation.