Unleash your artistic potential at the University of Cincinnati, one frame at a time!
Join our immersive program, where animation techniques and the artistic essence of animation collide seamlessly with game design. Dive into the vibrant world of game development and animation production, where each frame is a canvas for your artistic expression. Our program serves as a playground for creativity, offering a hands-on approach that mirrors the professional studio environment. From sketching initial ideas to bringing them to life on screen, students work alongside industry leaders, mastering the art of animation while delving into the intricate world of game design. Your dreams are crafted into pixels as you explore the limitless possibilities of your creative vision.
Led by award-winning multi-media artists and animators in the field, our unique curriculum is designed as a creative studio experience. Students embark on a journey from apprenticeship, honing their skills, to ultimately becoming creators in the dynamic realm of digital animation and game design. At the University of Cincinnati, we don't just teach; we mentor, ensuring you emerge not only as a skilled animator and game designer but also as a visionary artist ready to make your mark in the industry.
LILY RUNK |Games & Animation '27
What makes this program unique?
It equips you with a strong foundation in both fields, ensuring you're well-prepared to tackle any task involved in the production of large-scale animation and games. Another unique aspect of the program is the supportive community within the major, where you can collaborate on projects and gain valuable experience to help you succeed.
What are the strengths of the program?
There is a great mix of direction and creative freedom ensuring I make progress in my personal artistic journey while working on a variety of amazing projects for my portfolio.
What are your career aspirations?
I aspire to work in a studio environment as an animation or artistic lead.
What is your favorite game and/or animation?
My favorite animated show is Arcane, I love the stylization combined with a mix of 2D and 3D animation! My favorite games are Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail. I love the narratives, worldbuilding and characters that go into each of them!
I joined Games and Animation because of the history of excellence at DAAP and the fun and new opportunities of an emerging major. The abundance of knowledge at the school has led it to be a fascinating and inspiring track and I have loved being a part of a new chapter in the UC DAAP community.
J. Thomas '28
What is the GPA required for admission into the program?
What is the faculty to student ratio?
Is there a portfolio requirement?
At the University of Cincinnati, we believe that learning is doing and doing is learning.
All Games & Animation majors participate in the UC Co-op Program. Students have the opportunity to work full-time in the industry for 2 semesters during their studies to build their professional experience and resume.
Potential UC co-op partner opportunities include:
The University of Cincinnati’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Games & Animation program features an immersive experience and a proven curriculum. Interested in learning more? Check out our admissions requirements or request more information to connect with program staff or faculty.
High school applicants who submit a complete application by the November1 Early Action deadline will be pooled and reviewed for selection. Early Action applicants can expect to learn their admission decision on Cincinnati Decision Day. This date varies by year and is shared on the university’s Office of Admissions website. Students who apply by November 1 also receive maximum scholarship consideration. Applications received after November 1 may be considered on a space-available basis.
Students seeking to transfer from other colleges and programs at UC or another regionally accredited university or college should submit a complete application for admission by the priority deadline of March 1 for the following academic year.
513-556-2749
513-556-2797
513-556-2749
Students are encouraged to explore the information on our website and contact the DAAP Student Affairs team with any admissions questions.
Event: November 12, 2025 4:00 PM
The University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) will host renowned footwear designer Stuart Weitzman on Wednesday, Nov. 12.
June 25, 2025
DAAPcamps founder and UC faculty member Laurie Wilson speaks to Fox 19 on the history and success of DAAPcamps. Wilson is an associate director of student affairs and adjunct assistant professor in UC’s College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (DAAP), where the camps have been held since 2011.
Event: November 23, 2024 6:00 PM
Daniel Ruff's animation film "The Wreckoning" debuts at UC on Nov. 23. Ruff is among the first cohort of students to major in games and animation at UC.