Home > Admissions > FAQ
  • What is the DPA program?
    • The DPA program is a professional degree program aimed at producing technical savvy, artistically talented graduates who are sought after by the growing electronic arts industry. The courses are targeted at production techniques specific to the animation effects industry.
  • What are the admission requirements and deadline for application?
    • Deadline: Feb 1st

      Requirements: GRE, Application form, portfolio, portfolio critique, sample code, 3 letters of reference, TOEFL (for foreign students).
  • What are the scores required for GRE and TOEFL?
    • GRE: "target" base scores are 600 verbal, 600 math, and 4.0 writing.
    • TOEFL: "target" base score of at least 220.
  • Can I know in detail about the portfolio requirements?
    • The review committee is interested in knowing what you are capable of doing. Please include your best work in the portfolio with a description of what went into making it. The quality of work is the most important factor.
      To submit:
      • Art and/or design work including several pieces in any medium.
      • Portfolio critique: 2-3 page self-assessment.
      • Sample code: for placement purposes within the program (any language, including scripting languages).
  • Where do I send the application material?
    • The application, references and cover letter go to the graduate school.
  • Does the portfolio/portfolio critique/code go to the same address as application?
    • No, the portfolio, portfolio critique, and code sample all go to the program Director.
  • Who should I contact to set up a tour of the program?
    • To visit the DPA lab, contact the program Director. Tim Davis: tadavis@clemson.edu
  • What movies have your graduates worked on?
    • The Matrix: Revolutions and Reloaded, Star Wars: Episode III; The Hulk; Minority Report; Van Helsing; The Incredibles; Garfield; Scooby Doo 2; The Cat in the Hat; Final Fantasy; Ice Age; Hellboy; Constantine; Robots; Chronicles of Narnia; Open Season.
  • What companies have your graduates worked for?
    • ILM, EAGames, Pixar, Rhythm & Hues, Tippet Studios, Blue Sky Studios, Square USA, and institutions of higher learning.
  • What is an MFA degree?
    • An MFA is a "terminal" degree (in other words, the highest degree you can earn) in production. MFAs are mostly associated with fine and performing arts, and represent the highest level of proficiency in the craft. While a typical master's degree is 30 hours of study, the MFA degree is 60 (and a Ph.D. is 90). As opposed to a master's degree, an MFA is considered qualification for teaching in a college or university setting.
  • How many students are there in the program and how many new students are accepted?
    • 30 is the cap and approximately 15 students are accepted each year.
  • How long is the course of study ?
    • Approximately two years.
  • What does campus look like?
  • Does the program offer any assistantships/ financial aid?
    • Yes. (There are a small number of assistantships which cover tuition and living expenses, about $1000 per month) .
  • How are assistantships determined?
    • Assistantships are based on quality of application, and are given out upon acceptance into the program. Thus they are highly competitive, and it behooves one to apply on time.
  • Are there any other forms of financial aid on campus?
    • Yes. While DPA does not directly help in getting other assistantships, there are many other sources of assistantships on campus. Additionally, educational loans may be taken out for the course of study.
  • What are the resources and equipment are available for DPA students?
    • The main lab features machines running both Linux and Mac OSX with processors ranging up to 3.2 GHz single or 2.5 GHz dual with 2GB RAM. For a full rundown of the equipment check out the facilities page.
  • Are students encouraged to apply for internships in studios?
    • Yes, the program assists all qualified students to apply for internships.