Are you a graduating student passionate about animation and exploring career pathways? While you might be researching programs like NBC Campus 2 Career Programs, the world of animation offers incredible opportunities perfectly tailored for those fresh out of school. DreamWorks Animation, a powerhouse in the industry, provides a range of early career programs designed to nurture emerging talent. Let’s dive into the exciting options DreamWorks offers to help you launch your dream career in animation.
DreamWorks Internship Program: Your First Step into Animation
For students and recent graduates eager to immerse themselves in the animation world, the DreamWorks Internship Program is an invaluable experience. Interns work directly with seasoned artists and storytellers across TV and Feature Animation, gaining hands-on experience in real productions. This program provides a deep understanding of the 2D & CG pipelines and a true taste of a creative studio environment.
Offered three times a year – Spring, Summer, and Fall – these paid internships are 10 weeks long and structured on a remote or hybrid basis, depending on the specific department. Crucially, graduating students within six months post-graduation are eligible to apply, making it a perfect launchpad right after completing your studies.
Ideal interns are characterized by:
- Curiosity and a thirst for learning
- A deep passion for animation
- Humility and a good sense of humor
- Proactive and resourceful problem-solving skills
- Openness to feedback and growth
- Confidence in independent decision-making
- Strong self-motivation and drive
- Willingness to ask questions and seek assistance
- A positive and enthusiastic attitude
Due to the program’s popularity, it’s essential to adhere to application deadlines to allow sufficient time for review and matching candidates with the right teams.
Summer 2025 Applications Open March 3rd, 2025
Applications Close March 9th, 2025
Summer 2025 Internship Program Dates: June 9th – August 15th
Internship opportunities vary each season, but typically include departments such as:
- Business Affairs/Legal
- CFX/FX
- Current/Preschool Series
- Development
- Employee Engagement & Events
- Feature/TV Animation Production
- Human Resources
- Image Finaling
- Marketing
- Music
- Publicity
- Software Engineering
- Story
- Talent Relations & Casting
- Technical Direction
- Visual Development
Trainee and Apprentice Programs: Elevating Your Animation Skills
Beyond internships, DreamWorks offers Trainee and Apprentice programs designed for graduates seeking more intensive, skill-focused development.
The Trainee Program is a 12-week, full-time, paid opportunity covered by the Animation Guild. It’s open to graduates with less than 5 years of experience in animation or those transitioning from other fields. Trainees gain hands-on experience on TV or Feature productions, learning from industry professionals through a tailored curriculum and mentorship from Directors and Artists.
The Animator Apprentice Program is specifically for aspiring animators. This 12-week, full-time, paid program, also covered by the Animation Guild, provides hands-on experience on feature productions. Apprentices are mentored by the Program Lead and assigned mentors, receiving comprehensive training to build their animation skills and prepare them for roles on the Cycles Animation Team. This program is ideal for graduates with less than 2 years of animation industry experience.
Both Trainee and Apprentice programs are excellent options for graduating students looking to deepen their skills and make significant strides toward a career in animation.
LAUNCH Fellowship Program: Virtual Access to Animation Careers
DreamWorks is committed to diversity and inclusion, actively seeking to support talent from underrepresented communities. The LAUNCH Fellowship Program embodies this commitment, offering an 8-week virtual program accessible to students and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds, without relocation requirements.
As a LAUNCH Fellow, you’ll participate in workshops, courses, and speaker series designed to pave the way for animation careers. You’ll build a professional network and receive mentorship from DreamWorks professionals. All Fellows receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.
Applications Closed January 20th, 2025
The LAUNCH Fellowship is particularly beneficial for graduating students seeking to explore animation careers virtually and build connections within the industry.
Diversity Outreach and Immersion Day
DreamWorks’ commitment extends beyond formal programs through proactive Diversity Outreach initiatives. The Early Career Programs & Diversity Outreach Team focuses on attracting, recruiting, and developing a diverse talent pipeline. This includes school outreach to college, junior high, and high school students to educate and inspire the next generation of animators.
DreamWorks Immersion Day, an annual event, exemplifies this commitment by empowering students from underserved communities in Los Angeles. Participants gain behind-the-scenes insights into film and TV show production, interact with artists and creative executives, and network within the industry.
Success Stories: From Intern to Animation Professional
The success of DreamWorks’ early career programs is evident in the numerous success stories from former interns, trainees, and fellows who have transitioned into full-time roles at the studio.
Myles, a former TV Development Production Intern, highlights how the program prepared him for success and encouraged him to pursue his dreams, leading to his current role as Assistant to the Producer/Director.
Kendall, a former TV Production Intern, emphasizes the supportive environment and valuable skill development that directly translated to her role as a TV Production Assistant.
Ellie, a former Feature Production Intern, felt like an integral part of the team during her internship, making her transition to a full-time Feature Production Assistant seamless.
Mike, transitioning from a decade in banking, used the TV Production Internship to break into animation, achieving his long-held dream and securing a permanent position as a TV Production Assistant.
Jiyoung, a former TV Art Trainee, benefited from mentorship and invaluable feedback, leading to her current role as a TV Visual Development Artist.
Chad, a former TV Story Trainee, refined his skills in a live production environment, now working as a TV Storyboard Revisionist.
Eugene, a former Custom Animation Intern, cherished his experience and network, progressing from Production Assistant to Production Coordinator and now a Vis Dev Artist for Gabby’s Dollhouse.
These stories demonstrate the tangible career advancement opportunities provided by DreamWorks’ early career programs for graduating students and recent graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions for Graduating Students
Who is eligible for the Internship Program?
Candidates must be pursuing or have recently completed (within six months) an Associate, Bachelor, or Graduate degree.
Who is eligible for the Trainee and Apprentice Programs?
These programs are for recent graduates or entry-level individuals (up to five years out of school), those re-entering the workforce, or pivoting from other industries.
Are international students eligible?
Yes, international students who can legally work in the U.S. during the internship are welcome to apply.
What is the duration of each program?
The Internship Program is 10 weeks, offered three times a year. The Trainee Program is 12 weeks, offered annually with potential extensions. The LAUNCH Fellowship Program is 8 weeks and virtual.
Where are the programs located?
DreamWorks is in Glendale, CA. Internship and Trainee Programs may be remote, hybrid, or on-site, specified in job descriptions. The LAUNCH Fellowship is fully virtual.
Are the programs paid?
Yes, all early career programs are paid. Interns and Trainees receive competitive hourly rates, and LAUNCH Fellows receive a stipend.
What benefits do interns receive?
Interns gain exposure to studio leaders and participate in artistic and networking events.
Is there potential for full-time employment after the programs?
While not guaranteed, many interns and trainees successfully transition to full-time roles. LAUNCH Fellows are encouraged to apply for future opportunities.
What majors are welcome?
All majors and academic levels are encouraged to apply.
Are there application deadlines?
Yes, please refer to the Application Deadlines section for each program and season.
What is the interview process like?
The process varies by role and may include phone screens, work sample requests, and video or in-person interviews. Recruiters guide candidates through each step.
How long does it take to hear back after applying?
Due to the high volume of applications, allow 3-4 weeks after the application window closes for notification.
Does DreamWorks provide housing or relocation assistance?
Unfortunately, no. Interns and Trainees are responsible for their housing, relocation, and transportation. However, DreamWorks can offer suggestions and connect interns seeking housing.
What should I focus on in my resume?
In addition to your portfolio, emphasize work experience, community involvement, and leadership experience. Keep it concise and relevant.
Is a cover letter required?
It depends on the role. For writing and communication-heavy roles, a cover letter may be scrutinized. Check the job description for requirements. Keep it brief and focused, not a resume reiteration.
What makes a strong visual development portfolio?
Showcase strong design fundamentals: perspective, composition, painting, lighting, and color theory. Include personal, academic, or professional projects.
What makes a strong story portfolio?
Include storyboard samples demonstrating your storytelling process through sketches, character poses, expressions, and designs.
Is relocation required for the LAUNCH Fellowship Program?
No, the LAUNCH Fellowship Program is entirely virtual, eliminating the need for relocation.
DreamWorks’ early career programs offer diverse pathways for graduating students to enter the animation industry. While exploring options like NBC Campus 2 Career Programs is a great starting point, consider the specialized and enriching opportunities within animation offered by DreamWorks to truly launch your creative career.
