Studies
Curriculum Structure
The Animationsinstitut offers training in the study specilizations Animation, Visual Effects, Technical Directing, Animation/Effects Producing and Interactive Media, all of which are part of the Film + Media program.
Depending on the chosen specialisation, it is possible to start studying in the basic studies as well as in the project studies:
A direct entry into the basic studies is possible in the area of Animation (Animation Artist or Effects Artist) and Interactive Media. For the application to the basic studies, a university entrance qualification and a total of 12 months of practical experience in the field of film and media must be presented.
Depending on previous experience it is also possible to enter directly into the project studies of Animation and Visual Effects. In order to qualify, applicants should hold a degree in a relevant subject area.
Animation/Effects Producing, Technical Directing and Interactive Media are offered as postgraduate studies. Candidates must hold a first degree received by a university or equivalent institution (Bachelor, Master or Diploma) and provide proof of practical experience of approx. 6-12 months.
Training at the Animationsinstitut is hands-on and project-related. The students receive support through seminars, weeklies and mentoring as well as individual supervision. After successfully completing their studies, students receive the Filmakademie’s diploma.
- Open Days
- The Open Days 2024 are over. We would like to thank all participants. The next Open Days are expected to take place in November 2025.
- Information brochure
Would you like to get a better overview of studying at the Animationsinstitut? In our brochure you will find the most important information in compact format.
Range of Studies
Course of studies
Under the roof of the Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg
Are you wondering what all happens under the roof of the Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg? And what you can expect when you study at the Animationsinstitut of the Filmakademie?
Then take a look to the right at our overview of the course of studies: During the two-year basic studies (1st and 2nd year), all students at the Filmakademie receive collective and interdisciplinary training in the basic concepts and methods of filmmaking. In the subsequent two and a half years of the project studies (3rd, 4th year and diploma year), students work on their own projects and their chosen specialisation. Find out more about the process and content of the individual years of study below!
Doesn't that answer all of your questions? Then find more information about the process of our five specialisations Animation, Visual Effects, Technical Directing, Animation/Effects Producing and Interactive Media in the individual pages of our five specialisations.
Overview Course of Studies
Get a general overview of the course of studies at the Animationsinstitut:
1st Year
The first year is structured into four quarters of hands-on training, respectively focusing on experimental film-making, directing, camera and screenwriting. The foundation courses let you get familiar with the academic conditions and range of programs at the Filmakademie.
2nd Year
You learn the basics of animation in diverse workshops. In the elective module Experimental Film-Making 2, you will be confronted with alternative filmmaking approaches as well as various animation techniques. You will produce a short animated film relying on your specific artistic skills.
3rd Year
Your postgraduate studies begin in a semester-long project with teammates from throughout the institute. Together, you will concept, brand and produce a trailer (AniTrailer) and an interactive media installation, live interaction, or VR/AR application (AniPlay). By the end of the summer semester you will have developed four ideas for a diploma project, and produced a project outline. Moreover, you present and discuss your project’s progress with instructors and students from all areas of study every two weeks. Seminars, workshops and both individual and team mentoring sessions take place on a regular basis, supervised by renowned industry experts.
4th Year
In the fourth year, you will plan your diploma project in detail and make it happen. You will work on resolving all artistic and production issues up to the end of the winter semester of your 4th year. Every two weeks, you present and discuss your project’s progress with instructors and students from all areas of study. Seminars, workshops and both individual and team mentoring sessions take place on a regular basis, supervised by renowned industry experts.
Diploma
Individual and team mentoring sessions take place on a regular basis to support you and your project, supervised by renowned industry experts. Once a fortnight you will have the opportunity to discuss the status of your project with students from all areas of study. You will complete your diploma project before final exams in March, including: a master of the finished project, detailed documentation in the form of making-ofs, trailers, montages, publicity material, and a financial and administrative project report. Your studies conclude with a presentation of your diploma project.
Graduates & Initiatives
Regular meetings with Animationsinstitut's graduates, the Filmakademie newsletter for graduates, and personal profiles in the graduates portal as well as the annual FMX - Film and Media Exchange conference organized by the Filmakademie provide the framework for an active graduate network. Talent initiatives and networking: The Animationsinstitut supports students and graduates beyond their studies on their way into the industry.
Studying at the Animationsinstitut offers a lot of flexibility. You can choose which areas you would like to focus on, we encourage you to give feedback and suggest guest lecturers from the industry. If you want to initiate a project or contribute to somebody else’s project, is up to you.
Constanze Bühner, Study CoordinationTechnical Equipment
FAQ about Studying at the Animationsinstitut
Do you charge tuition fees?
There are no tuition fees for first degree students. For international students from non-EU countries the state of Baden-Württemberg does charge tuition fees of €1,500 per semester. For students who have already completed their first degree in Germany, the state of Baden-Württemberg in general charges secondary tuition fees of €650 per semester but the Filmakademies's postgraduate studies (e.g. Animation/Effects Producing, Interactive Media and Technical Directing at Animationsinstitut) are an exception to this rule: there are no tuition fees involved. You can find further information regarding tuiton fees on the Filmakademie's website.
Is it a full-time study program?
Yes, you are a full-time student at the Animationsinstitut.
Do you offer portfolio consultations?
Unfortunately we do not offer portfolio consultations. If you have general questions about your studies, please contact us by phone or email.
When does the study program begin?
Studies at the Animationinstitut always begin in the winter semester.
Is it possible to study in parallel at another university?
No, the studies are full-time and parallel studies are not possible.
What kind of final degree does Animationsinstitut offer?
After successfully completing a study course, students are awarded with the Filmakademie’s diploma.
Does Filmakademie have its own student accommodation?
No, please contact the Studierendenwerk Stuttgart. However, you are welcome to send us your accommodation request. We will put it on our “blackboard”.
What is the main language of instruction at Animationsinstitut?
Most of the basic study courses are taught in German. Project and postgraduate studies are mainly held in English. English is the only language used in the Technical Directing course.
Is it possible to change a course of study or a specialization during the course of study?
In special cases this is possible, your lecturers and the Examination Office will be happy to advise you in your specific case.
Contact
Questions about the study programme? Send us a message!