Computer Science: Animation and Games

About the Major

The Animation and Games Emphasis combines a computer science degree with specialized preparation needed to design and develop animated games and films. Students begin by taking fundamentals in computer science and animation, then must apply to the program.

After admission, students take additional courses in computer science fundamentals, graphics, and animation. Students can choose electives from both the computer science catalog and specialty courses in animation and games. Each year, students collaborate with Animation BFA students to create both an animated film and game.

Applying for the Major

The Computer Science Animation and Games Emphasis is a limited-enrollment major. For information about how to apply, click here. Also, please see our list of Frequently Asked Questions.
How to Apply

BYU Center for Animation

Students and faculty from the Computer Science Animation and Games Emphasis and the Animation BFA are part of BYU’s Center for Animation. The BYU Computer Science Department has a long history of contribution to the field of computer-generated animation. CS Animation & Games Emphasis students have been instrumental in the production of each of BYU's celebrated animated shorts and games.

Check out some of the animated films and games created by students:
BYU Animation's Short Films BYU Animation's Games

The short films have been widely heralded by the animation industry, garnering 22 "College Television Awards" or "Student Emmys" from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences and 7 "Student Academy Awards" from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Careers in Animation and Games

A valuable feature of the Animation and Games Emphasis is that students earn a degree in computer science. This qualifies them for software development in a wide variety of areas.

Alumni are employed with some of the top studios in the industry, including: Pixar, DreamWorks, Disney Animation, Sony Pictures Animation, Warner Bros. Animation, EntertainmentArts, Industrial Light + Magic, Avalanche Studios, LucasFilmsAnimation, and Epic Games.

Salary

Estimating salary for a job with a Computer Science Animation and Games Emphasis degree is difficult because the degree provides a foundation for a vast range of career paths, each with its own unique economic landscape.

A graduate's potential earnings are heavily skewed by industry choice, geographic location, and specific technical expertise. Ultimately, the salary is best viewed as a broad spectrum rather than a single predictable data point because computer science now serves as the essential backbone for nearly every modern industry.

See salary statistics

Requirements

Requirements can change from year to year. When you declare a major, you follow the requirements for that year. You can speak with an academic advisor to switch to the current requirements if desired.
Current Requirements
Flow Chart

Declaring or Changing Your Major

To learn how to declare or change your major to the Animation and Games emphasis, click here:Declaring A CS Major/Minor