Animation houses and companies that employ animators in a variety of industries frequently offer various types of animation internships. Internships at major animation studios — usually working in either two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) animation — are plentiful and can help a student become acquainted with the industry. Television networks and companies that produce animated programs for television also offer animation internships, which allow students to learn about various aspects of television production and animation. Internships with video game companies and other companies that employ animators are available, though they are less common.
Internships in animation are typically programs in which students pursuing a degree in art or animation can gain experience and a better understanding of the industry by working at a studio. Some of these internships are available at studios that create animation for films, usually animated features. Internships in animation usually allow students to see how what they’ve learned in class is applied in the workplace and to start making contacts in the industry. Internships in major production studios may be available for students interested in various aspects of the industry, such as 2D and 3D animation and concept artistry.
Students interested in working in television animation production can also apply for animation internships. Networks that produce original programming, as well as studios that produce shows for television networks, frequently offer internships. Internships in animation at these studios can cover a variety of topics, including the writing process, actual animation, and even editing. Because animated television programs are frequently exported from one country to another, internships may be available for those interested in translating these shows between languages and learning about the production process.
Companies that use computer animation to create works other than animated television or film programs may offer other animation internships. Video game studios, for example, frequently hire a large number of animators to create the art assets for the games they create. While many smaller businesses may not have internship opportunities, many larger video game companies do. Internships are frequently used to assist students and scout for talented artists interested in employment. There may also be animation internships available at special effects companies that create realistic animations for use in live-action film and television productions; these internships can be a great way for an animator to network within the effects industry.