The film crew from Jilin Animation Institute. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

As China's micro-drama industry expands, Jilin Animation Institute in Changchun is using its long-running industry-oriented education model to prepare students for film and digital content production.

The institute's faculty and students co-created seven short dramas released between late 2025 and July 2026. According to QuestMobile's 2026 Short Drama Marketing Industry Report, China had 851 million short-drama users as of May.

Founded in 2000, Jilin Animation Institute was among China's earliest universities to establish an independent undergraduate animation program. Its academic offerings have since expanded to include acting, directing, cinematography and film production, sound recording, and other disciplines. The institute has also established an artificial intelligence college and a future intelligent imaging college, with AI film creation among their key directions.

A filming location. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

At the center of its approach is an education model that has operated for more than two decades, integrating learning, research, and industry. From their junior year, students enter industry-linked practical teaching platforms and work in more than 200 studios on projects organized around professional roles. University-affiliated companies and industry partners provide additional production and project platforms.

The institute has established 15 provincial-level research platforms covering virtual imaging, motion capture, physical effects, digital humans, AIGC, and immersive interaction. It has also trained tens of thousands of film and animation professionals, contributing to the talent base of Changchun's growing screen industry.