University of Tampa

The University of Tampa is an independent private university in downtown Tampa, Florida. Founded in 1931 as Tampa Junior College, it expanded into a four-year institution in 1933. Its College of Arts and Letters includes the Department of Film, Animation and New Media, an academic and creative-production environment for students pursuing film, animation and digital-media practice.

The department offers BFA programs in Animation, Film and Media Arts, and New Media, as well as a BA in Film and Media Arts and related minors. Its curriculum combines storytelling, cinema studies and practical digital-production training for careers across film, animation, visual effects, games and interactive media.

Production-focused learning

Students work across disciplines that include:

• 2D and 3D computer animation, character rigging and CGI
• Narrative and documentary filmmaking, screenwriting and pre-visualization
• Visual effects, game development and creative coding
• VR, AR, XR, virtual production and digital media
• 3D modeling and digital fabrication

University facilities support production, post-production, animation and fabrication work. Available resources include virtual-production space, animation suites, digital-fabrication labs, DaVinci Resolve color facilities, ProTools audio suites, sound stages, cameras and production equipment.

Professional connection

Experiential learning is central to the department's approach. Students can connect with regional productions, studios and multimedia companies through internships and production placements, building portfolios and practical experience in professional environments.

The department also founded and hosts the Tampa Animation Festival, an international showcase for independent and student animation. Reported production and internship connections include student support roles associated with The Infiltrator, Dolphin Tale, No Postage Necessary and Not Alone.