Certificate, associate and bachelor degrees all begin with a series of classes that scale in difficulty. Pathway courses for international students allow them to take these undergraduate classes with additional language help. Course credit is then applied to the student’s program of choice.

What is an undergraduate pathway in special effects? This degree program provides the basis for working in film, television, or any medium that requires illusion through manipulation of graphics or cameras. Because there are so many different areas considered as special effects, there is a variety of pathways and degree programs that can work. Some students follow arts, photography or graphic design programs, while others specialize in multimedia or computer animation.

An undergraduate pathway that leads to a career in special effects often paves the way for a portfolio of work students can build along the way. Hiring managers often want to see what applicants can accomplish. Learning project management skills is inherent in seeing a project to completion. In addition, students often learn to work as part of a team on projects, which is necessary when part of a production crew.

Cost of programs in special effects can vary from area to area. Some may find that only a two-year degree is necessary to get started in the professional world. Others may start at a two-year institution and move to a four-year school for more advanced degrees. The overall cost of these different pathways will therefore vary.

There is usually a variety of career paths for people who want to specialize in special effects. Architects are hired to develop and create elaborate settings for television or movies, from storyboard to blueprints. Those who work in production on special effects may be stunt coordinators, pyrotechnic experts or puppetry artists. Anyone who works in post-production would be an animator, graphic designer, or audio editor.

Classes are offered online or in classrooms in many colleges and universities. To get started, search for your program below and contact directly the admission office of the school of your choice by filling in the lead form.