Classes in special effects may study how the entertainment industry uses special effects to enhance movies, television shows and theater performances. Effects can be completely digital, use a combination of digital and live actors or consist of tangible materials such as wires, explosives, costumes, props, prosthetics and make-up.

A bachelor's degree is given to students who fulfill the necessary requirements given by the college or university they are attending. The requirements include three to seven years of focus on a subject, typically referred to as a major or concentration.