The duration of the programme of study is 6 semesters, whereas the first 3 consist of compulsory teaching and practical exercises. The remaining 3 semesters are mainly devoted to the specialization and an extensive examination project.  The programme provides a practical and theoretical introduction to all the usual animation techniques (cartoons, puppet films, cut-out and computer animation). The 1st semester is based on classical cartoon exercises and the understanding of animation film and its entertainment value. Students are to produce an animatic (a filmed storyboard with sound) for a short film. The 2nd semester focuses on cut-out animation (both analogue and digital) and experimental animation techniques.  Animated film is placed in a general context within both film and art history. The 3rd semester emphasizes puppet film, 3D data and text/movie analysis. Seminars in the practical use of different computer programmes are central in the first 3 semesters; cartoon software in the 1st  semester, digital cut-out in the 2nd semester and 3D in the 3rd semester. In the 1st and 2nd semester we look at topics in media studies, and in the 3rd semester the students will perform a larger movie analysis. In the 4th semester you may choose 2 practical production courses, do supervised professional training or go on student exchange. In the 5th and 6th semester the students shall produce an extensive examination production, including a written production report/analysis. Supervised professional training in an animation studio is also a possibility.The school has good connections within the business, both domestically and internationally. The animation studio in Volda has, from the beginning, practiced an international approach. Several teachers come from the international line of business, and a lot of lectures are held in English. Students travel abroad as a part of the programme, and international students come to Volda. Students arrange the film festival AnimationVolda each year. The theoretical teaching is mainly arranged in form of group lectures. The student productions represent the majority of the practical assignments, and this is mostly where the practical teaching takes place.  In the practical assignments, individual tutoring and support on all stages of production are important.  All practical education is compulsory, unless the student can document equivalent knowledge. Students have the right to ask for an individual education plan review. The different courses use letter grades or pass/fail as form of evaluation. The listed curriculum for each course is meant as a guide. The final curriculum is provided before the semester begins.See course tables for further information regarding the programme of study.The programme of study is evaluated according to Volda University College’s quality assurance system.