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What are the top animation schools in the south for 2026?
| Ranking | School | State | Ranking by State | National Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Savannah College of Art and Design | Georgia | #1 in Georgia | #2 |
| #2 | Ringling College of Art and Design | Florida | #1 in Florida | #4 |
| #3 | University of Central Florida | Florida | #2 in Florida | #19 |
| #4 | Full Sail University | Florida | #3 in Florida | #20 |
| #5 | Clemson University | South Carolina | #1 in South Carolina | #30 |
| #6 | University of Florida | Florida | #4 in Florida | #33 |
| #7 | Florida State University | Florida | #5 in Florida | #35 |
| #8 | University of North Carolina School of the Arts | North Carolina | #1 in North Carolina | #43 |
| #9 | North Carolina State University | North Carolina | #2 in North Carolina | Unranked |
| #10 | Middle Tennessee State University | Tennessee | #1 in Tennessee | Unranked |
| #11 | University of South Florida | Florida | #6 in Florida | Unranked |
| #12 | East Tennessee State University | Tennessee | #2 in Tennessee | Unranked |
| #13 | Kennesaw State University | Georgia | #2 in Georgia | Unranked |
| #14 | Lipscomb University | Tennessee | #3 in Tennessee | Unranked |
| #15 | DAVE School | Florida | #7 in Florida | Unranked |
| #16 | Tulane University | Louisiana | #1 in Louisiana | Unranked |
| #17 | Louisiana State University | Louisiana | #2 in Louisiana | Unranked |
| #18 | University of South Carolina | South Carolina | #2 in South Carolina | Unranked |
| #19 | East Carolina University | North Carolina | #3 in North Carolina | Unranked |
| #20 | University of North at Carolina, Charlotte | North Carolina | #4 in North Carolina | Unranked |
| #21 | University of North Carolina, Wilmington | North Carolina | #5 in North Carolina | Unranked |
| #22 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | North Carolina | #6 in North Carolina | Unranked |
| #23 | Florida International University | Florida | #8 in Florida | Unranked |
| #24 | Austin Peay State University | Tennessee | #4 in Tennessee | Unranked |
| #25 | Georgia Southern University | Georgia | #3 in Georgia | Unranked |
Our 2026 list -our fifteenth annual- of the Top 25 Animation School Programs in the South. For reference, we define the South as Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas.
The criteria we used for the animation rankings consists, in no particular order, of the following: Academic reputation, Employment data, Admission selectivity, Depth and breadth of the program, Value as it relates to tuition and indebtedness, Graduation rate, and Retention rate. For an explanation of ranking criteria, click here.
1. Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, Georgia
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) serves more than 18,500 students from the U.S. and and 100 different countries. Hosting one of the world’s largest student-run film festivals and home to Savannah Studios—one of the largest university film studios in the U.S.—SCAD provides multiple paths to study animation. Options include the Animation BFA, MA, and MFA programs, as well as the dual BFA/MA and BFA/MFA through Gradpath@SCAD. Programs culminate with a thesis, final project, or capstone. SCAD Animation alumni are routinely hired at places such as DreamWorks, Epic Games, Lucasfilm Animation, Nickelodeon, Electronic Arts (EA), Disney Animation, Pixar, 20th Century Studios, Cartoon Network, Warner Bros. Animation, Activision Blizzard, and Sony Pictures Animation.
Savannah College of Art and Design — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Savannah College of Art and Design' s position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Elite Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 1)
Faculty Size: Expansive Faculty (Tier 1)
Graduate Employment: Exceptional Employment Outcomes (Tier 1)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Substantial Average Net Cost (Tier 5)
Student Indebtedness: Elevated Student Debt (Tier 4)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Strong Student Retention (Tier 2)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
2. Ringling College of Art and Design, Sarasota, Florida
Ringling College of Art and Design (RCAD) has a Computer Animation BFA program that provides internship opportunities at places such as Pixar, Nickelodeon, and DreamWorks. Other program features include courses taught by industry professionals; guest speakers; and real-world projects with area studios. RCAD also houses a Motion Design BFA that explores 2D and 3D animation, visual effects (VFX), stop motion animation, graphic design, storytelling, and sound design. Programs culminate with a polished animated production. Graduates have gone on to work on several Oscar-nominated animation feature films and for studios such as Pixar, Weta FX, Disney Animation, Electronic Arts (EA), Cartoon Network, Lucasfilm, Nickelodeon, Sony Pictures Animation, LAIKA, and Blizzard Entertainment.
Ringling College of Art and Design — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Ringling College of Art and Design' s position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Elite Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 1)
Faculty Size: Large Faculty (Tier 2)
Graduate Employment: Exceptional Employment Outcomes (Tier 1)
Admissions Selectivity: Moderately Selective (Tier 3)
Average Net Cost: Substantial Average Net Cost (Tier 5)
Student Indebtedness: Substantial Student Debt (Tier 5)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Strong Student Retention (Tier 2)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
3. University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
University of Central Florida (UCF) provides several paths to study animation. At the undergraduate level, students can earn an Emerging Media BFA with an Animation and Visualization track (formerly Experimental Animation) or the Character Animation track. At the graduate level options include the Interactive Entertainment MS; Digital Media MA; or Emerging Media MFA with an Animation and Visual Effects track. As part of UCF’s Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA), students benefit from internships with major studios and 24/7 access to state-of the art production studios. UCF FIEA graduates are routinely hired at places such as Pixar, Electronic Arts (EA), Disney, Marvel, Epic Games, Google, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Apple, DreamWorks, Gameloft, and Blizzard Entertainment.
University of Central Florida — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to UCF's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Excellent Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 2)
Faculty Size: Mid-Sized Faculty (Tier 3)
Graduate Employment: Strong Employment Outcomes (Tier 2)
Admissions Selectivity: Selective (Tier 2)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
4. Full Sail University, Winter Park, Florida
Full Sail University (Full Sail) has a Computer Animation BS program that can be completed online or in-person. While the campus-based program takes just 20 months to complete and the online program takes 29 months, the curriculums are identical. Students will complete several professional development seminar courses along with seven project and portfolio courses covering computer animation and 3D art. Hundreds of Full Sail graduates have been credited on Academy-, Grammy-, and Primetime Emmy Award-nominated projects. Alumni can also be found at places such as Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), MTV, Disney, HBO, Insomniac Games, Electronic Arts (EA), Pixar, Apple, Blizzard Entertainment, Nickelodeon, Epic Games, Universal Studios, Google, Warner Bros., and Sony.
Full Sail University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Full Sail's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Excellent Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 2)
Faculty Size: Large Faculty (Tier 2)
Graduate Employment: Exceptional Employment Outcomes (Tier 1)
Admissions Selectivity: Highly Accessible (Tier 5)
Average Net Cost: Elevated Average Net Cost (Tier 4)
Student Indebtedness: Substantial Student Debt (Tier 5)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Fair First Year Student Retention (Tier 4)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
5. Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina
Clemson University (Clemson) provides several paths to study animation. At the undergraduate level, students can earn an Art BA with a Digital Art and Design Media emphasis or a Digital Production Arts (DPA) minor. This option is open to students in all majors. At the graduate level, the school has DPA MFA and MS programs. Across programs, students will explore area such as animation, games, visual effects, film production, human computer interaction (HCI), computer science, visualization, and virtual reality (VR). Graduates can be found at places such as Pixar, Sony Pictures Imageworks, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), DreamWorks, Electronic Arts (EA), Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Reel FX.
Clemson University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Clemson's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Excellent Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 2)
Faculty Size: Mid-Sized Faculty (Tier 3)
Graduate Employment: Fair Employment Outcomes (Tier 4)
Admissions Selectivity: Selective (Tier 2)
Average Net Cost: Moderate Average Net Cost (Tier 3)
Student Indebtedness: Moderate Student Debt (Tier 3)
Graduation Rate: Strong Graduation Rate (Tier 2)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
6. University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
The College of the Arts (COTA) at University of Florida (UF) houses an interdisciplinary Digital Arts and Sciences BA (BADAS) program that highlights courses such as 2D and 3D Digital Animation Techniques, 3D Character Animation, and Digital Storytelling. A DAS minor is also available and open to most majors. The 15 credit-hour minor can be added to most UF programs. Both programs feature project-based curriculums; access to state-of-the-art studios and production facilities; and internship opportunities. The BADAS program culminates with a final project. COTA graduates can be found at places such as DreamWorks Animation, Insomniac Games, Disney, Blizzard Entertainment, Electronic Arts (EA), Sony Pictures Imageworks, Epic Games, Microsoft, and Sony Music.
University of Florida — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to University of Florida's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Small Faculty (Tier 4)
Graduate Employment: Strong Employment Outcomes (Tier 2)
Admissions Selectivity: Highly Selective (Tier 1)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Strong Graduation Rate (Tier 2)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
7. Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida
The College of Motion Picture Arts at Florida State University (FSU) has an intensive four-year conservatory program that focuses on CG animation. Leading to a BFA in Animation, the program limits each cohort to just 10 students. Courses and collaborative projects take place in an environment that functions like today's major studios. Students have 24/7 access as well as access to the Torchlight Center for Motion Picture Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Throughout the BFA program students will complete four major films. Graduates are routinely hired at places such as Disney, Cartoon Network, Epic Games, Nickelodeon, Pixar, Sony Pictures Imageworks, DreamWorks, Electronic Arts (EA), NBCUniversal, Xbox Game Studios, Warner Bros., Apple, HBO, Lucasfilm Animation, and Netflix.
Florida State University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to FSU's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Strong Employment Outcomes (Tier 2)
Admissions Selectivity: Highly Selective (Tier 1)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Strong Graduation Rate (Tier 2)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
8. University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) houses the School of Filmmaking and the School of Design and Production. Both schools provide paths to study animation. In the School of Filmmaking, students can earn an Animation BFA. The School of Design and Production (D&P) houses an Animatronics concentration within the MFA program. Across programs, students benefit from immersive courses and hands-on projects that take place in a 100,000 square feet, state-of-the-art production space, and internships at places such as Cartoon Network and Sony Pictures Imageworks. Graduates have gone on to land roles at these and other studios such as Disney, Nickelodeon, Universal Studios, Pixar, South Park Digital Studios, Paramount, HBO, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Cirque du Soleil.
University of North Carolina School of the Arts — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to UNCSA's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Small Faculty (Tier 4)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Selective (Tier 2)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Elevated Student debt (Tier 4)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
9. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
The College of Design at North Carolina State University (NC State) houses the Department of Media Arts, Design and Technology (MADTech). Within the department are three paths to study animation including the Bachelor of Art + Design (BAD), Masters of Art + Design (MAD), and Art + Design minor. All degree-seeking students will complete the interdisciplinary first-year experience, which includes workshops and studios with other majors. Other program benefits include professional internships and participation in the study abroad program. Examples of past locations include Prague, Greece, and Chile. Programs culminate with an animation project. Graduates can be found at places such as Apple, Nike, Google, Microsoft, Razorfish, Amazon, and IBM.
North Carolina State University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to NC State's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Strong Employment Outcomes (Tier 2)
Admissions Selectivity: Selective (Tier 2)
Average Net Cost: Low-mid Average Net Cost (Tier 2)
Student Indebtedness: Moderate Student Debt (Tier 3)
Graduation Rate: Strong Graduation Rate (Tier 2)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
10. Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
The Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment (CME) at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) is the only college of its kind. With a focus on storytelling, entertainment, and news, the college houses the Department of Media Arts—home to the Animation BS and minor. Both programs allow students to complete a paid internship CME’s own MT IMAGINE Animation Studio, where they can participate in 2D and 3D animation, XR virtual production, and VR/AR projects for real-world clients. Students also have access to state-of-the-art animation and graphics computer labs; the Center for Innovation in Media; and a 40-foot Mobile Production Lab. Program alumni have been hired at places such as DreamWorks, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Sony Pictures Imageworks, Blizzard Entertainment, Digital Domain, Warner Bros. Games, Reel FX, Cinesite, Titmouse, Pixomondo, and Tippett Studio.
Middle Tennessee State University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to MTSU's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Mid-Sized Faculty (Tier 3)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Moderately Selective (Tier 3)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Moderate First-Year Student Retention (Tier 3)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
11. University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
University of South Florida (USF) is home to the College of Design, Art, and Performance. Within the college is the School of Art and Art History, which has a Studio Art program leading to a BA, BFA, MFA, or minor. An Animation and Digital Modeling concentration is open to students in all programs. Other Studio Art highlights include travel to Miami art fairs, London, Venice, Paris, and New York through the Summer Art Program; participation in public art exhibitions; The Paris or London Middlesex Program; museum and other internships; and self-directed projects. Programs culminate with a final project and presentation. Graduates can be found at places such as Disney, Microsoft, Google, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, Universal, The Dali Museum, Rolling Stone, Dell, Vogue, Morean Arts Center, and STRAZ.
University of South Florida — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to USF's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Small Faculty (Tier 4)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Selective (Tier 2)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
12. East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee
The School of Marketing and Media at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) houses the Department of Digital Media (DIGM). Within the department are several paths to study animation including the DIGM BS, MFA, and minor. The BS has an Animation concentration, the MFA allows students to customize a specialization, and students in the minor can study animation through electives. Other DIGM highlights include individual and collaborative projects; access to state-of-the-art production facilities; and internship opportunities. Programs culminate with a final project and portfolio. Graduates can be found at places such as Disney, Red Storm Entertainment, Deck Nine, and Luma Pictures. Program alumni have also worked on productions and games such as Avatar; Guitar Hero; Lord of the Rings; World of Warcraft; The Last Jedi; Halo 5; The Avengers; and Kung Fu Panda III.
East Tennessee State University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to ETSU's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Mid-Sized Faculty (Tier 3)
Graduate Employment: Strong Employment Outcomes (Tier 2)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Low-mid Average Net Cost (Tier 2)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Moderate First-Year Student Retention (Tier 3)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
13. Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, Georgia
Geer College of the Arts at Kennesaw State University (KSU) is home to the School of Art and Design (SOAAD). Within the school are two paths to study animation including the Digital Animation BFA and the MA in Art and Design (MAAD) with a Digital Animation concentration. The BFA has both 2D and 3D Digital Animation pathways. Across programs, students have access to state-of-the-art studios and the Bernard A. Zuckerman Museum of Art. Students also benefit from professional development through workshops, internships, and other experiential learning activities. The BFA program culminates with a professional animation reel. MAAD students will complete a final project or thesis to graduate. KSU graduates can be found at places such as Disney, Warner Bros., Microsoft, CNN, and Scientific Games.
Kennesaw State University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to KSU's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Moderate Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 4)
Faculty Size: Large Faculty (Tier 2)
Graduate Employment: Strong Employment Outcomes (Tier 2)
Admissions Selectivity: Moderately Selective (Tier 3)
Average Net Cost: Low-mid Average Net Cost (Tier 2)
Student Indebtedness: Elevated Student debt (Tier 4)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Moderate First-Year Student Retention (Tier 3)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
14. Lipscomb University, Nashville, Tennessee
The George Shinn College of Entertainment and the Arts (CEA) at Lipscomb University houses The Animation Program. Pathways include the BA, BFA and minor. Courses are led by Disney Animators, award-winning independent filmmakers, and experts in industry-standard software. Animation students also benefit from internships at major studios; field trips to places such as Los Angeles and Italy to attend animation events; and opportunities to work with real clients in the CEA’s Imagine House. The BFA program culminates with an Animation Capstone. BA students will complete a final project to graduate. Program alumni are often hired at places such as Pencilish Animation Studios, the Tennessee Titans, and Imagine House.
Lipscomb University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Lipscomb's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Mid-Sized Faculty (Tier 3)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Moderately Selective (Tier 3)
Average Net Cost: Moderate Average Net Cost (Tier 3)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Fair Graduation Rate (Tier 4)
First-Year Retention Rate: Strong First-Year Student Retention (Tier 2)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
15. DAVE School of Digital Arts, Orlando, Florida
DAVE School of Digital Arts (DAVE School) provides formal programs from Digital Arts and Technology (DAT) and Visual Effects (VFX) Production to Game Production (GP) and Virtual Production (VP). Many degree-seeking animators choose the DAT BS program, which focuses on areas such as facial rigging and animation, body mechanics, motion capture, prop and world design, game interactions, and digital scene creation using industry-standard tools such as Unreal Engine, Maya, and After Effects. The program culminates with the two VFX projects and an in-house game for the student’s final demo reel. DAVE graduates have gone on to work with studios such as Sony Interactive Entertainment, Warner Bros. Games, Marvel Studios, Paramount Pictures, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Naughty Dog, MPC, and Brown Bag Films.
DAVE School — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to DAVE School's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Excellent Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 2)
Faculty Size: Small Faculty (Tier 4)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Highly Accessible (Tier 5)
Average Net Cost: Substantial Average Net Cost (Tier 5)
Student Indebtedness: Substantial Student Debt (Tier 5)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Low First Year Student Retention (Tier 5)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
16. Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana
The Newcomb Art Department at Tulane University (Tulane) provides several paths to study animation. Options include the Studio Art BA, BFA, and MFA. Students in all programs can enroll in the Digital Arts area, which explores animation and video (time-based media), interactivity, 3D graphics, and virtual reality. Other program features include opportunities to create animated projects in the state-of-the-art Digital Arts Studio; independent study; cross-disciplinary seminars; and internships. Programs culminate with a final project and exhibit in the Carroll Gallery at Woldenberg Art Center. Tulane alumni have been hired at places such as Disney, Nickelodeon, Paramount, NBCUniversal, Pixel Magic, Meta, Google, and Amazon.
Tulane University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Tulane's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Limited Employment Outcomes (Tier 5)
Admissions Selectivity: Highly Selective (Tier 1)
Average Net Cost: Substantial Average Net Cost (Tier 5)
Student Indebtedness: Moderate Student Debt (Tier 3)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
17. Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Louisiana State University (LSU) provides several paths to study animation. Options include the Studio Art BFA (Digital Art); Digital Art BA and MFA; the interdisciplinary Digital Media Arts and Engineering (DMAE) MS and minor; and a Digital Media Art (DMART) minor. All students have access to state-of-the-art production spaces such as the XR Studio Brain Bar; the Digital Twin Studio; and the XR Studio. All students may participate in the internship program and work in the DMAE Digital Media Center on LSU's campus. This shared space with Electronic Art’s (EA) North American Test Center allows students to collaborate with accomplished animators, digital artists, and programmers. Graduates have been hired at places such as Lucasfilm, Electronic Arts (EA), DreamWorks, Pixar, and Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Louisiana State University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to LSU's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Moderate Average Net Cost (Tier 3)
Student Indebtedness: Moderate Student Debt (Tier 3)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Strong First-Year Student Retention (Tier 2)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
18. University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
The School of Visual Art and Design (SVAD) at University of South Carolina (USC) provides programs that highlight study abroad experiences such as Art and Culture of Japan, and Kenya: Enhancing Perceptions Through Art and Art Making. SVAD programs also take place in an 85,000 square feet facility customized for projects in the visual arts. Other highlights include participation in SVAD Studio, which hosts exhibitions, workshops, and visiting artist talks; assistantships for graduate students; internships; and opportunities to design and install works at Passage Gallery. SVAD options for animators include the BA, MA, and minor in Media Arts. Programs culminate with a final project and exhibition. Graduates have gone on to establish careers at places such as Disney, Marvel, HBO, Blizzard Entertainment, Pixar, NBCUniversal, Amazon MGM Studios, Nickelodeon, Boeing, Warner Bros., Netflix, and Showtime.
University of South Carolina — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to University of South Carolina's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Moderately Selective (Tier 3)
Average Net Cost: Moderate Average Net Cost (Tier 3)
Student Indebtedness: Moderate Student Debt (Tier 3)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
19. East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina
The School of Art and Design (SoAD) at East Carolina University has an Art BFA program that allows students to concentrate in one of 11 areas. Examples include Animation and Interactive Design; Illustration’ Film and Video Production; Graphic Design; and Photography. Across areas, students will work and learn in a 150,000 square feet space that houses dedicated BFA studios with 24/7 access; a film and media studio; drawing and painting spaces; digital classrooms; the Image Creation and Output Resource (ICOR) Lab; and computer labs. Other program benefits include hands-on learning; partnerships with local arts organizations; internships; career development services; and study abroad experiences. The culminating experience for the Art BFA is the Senior Exhibition. Graduates can be found at places such as DreamWorks, Disney, East Carolina Art Space, and Cember Studio.
East Carolina University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to ECU's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Moderate Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 4)
Faculty Size: Small Faculty (Tier 4)
Graduate Employment: Fair Employment Outcomes (Tier 4)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Low-mid Average Net Cost (Tier 2)
Student Indebtedness: Elevated Student debt (Tier 4)
Graduation Rate: Fair Graduation Rate (Tier 4)
First-Year Retention Rate: Strong First-Year Student Retention (Tier 2)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
20. University of North at Carolina Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina
University of North Carolina Charlotte (UNC Charlotte or UNCC) is home to the College of Arts and Architecture (COA+A). Within the COA+A is the Department of Art and Art History, which has Art BA and BFA programs with a concentration in Digital Media. Course examples for the program include Animation Production; 3D Modeling and Animation; Interactive Art and Design; Game Design and Graphics; and Advanced 3D Modeling and Digital Fabrication. Other program benefits include access to state-of-the-art production facilities; professional internships; and participation in the Senior Exhibition/ BFA Thesis Show. Graduates have been hired at places such as ESPN, Flying Bark Productions, NASCAR, the Charlotte Hornets, Fox Sports Studios, Epoch Games, AGBO, VAVA Graphics, and Queen City News.
University of North at Carolina Charlotte — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to UNC Charlotte's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Moderate Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 4)
Faculty Size: Small Faculty (Tier 4)
Graduate Employment: Fair Employment Outcomes (Tier 4)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Moderate Student Debt (Tier 3)
Graduation Rate: Fair Graduation Rate (Tier 4)
First-Year Retention Rate: Strong First-Year Student Retention (Tier 2)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
21. University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) provides multiple paths to study animation. Options include the Digital Arts BA with a concentration in Interactive Graphics; a Computer Science BS with a Digital Arts concentration; the Film Studies BA that allows students to study animation through electives and other courses; the Filmmaking MFA with animation coursework and projects; and the Studio Art BA with animation and multimedia coursework. Students in all programs benefit from collaborative projects; UNCW’s partnerships with places such as Cinespace Studios Wilmington, the Cucalorus Film Festival, and Working Films; and professional internships. Across programs, graduates will have the skills needed to pursue roles at places such as Pixar, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Epic Games, and IDEO.
University of North Carolina Wilmington — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to UNC Wilmington's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Moderate Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 4)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Fair Employment Outcomes (Tier 4)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Low-mid Average Net Cost (Tier 2)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Strong First-Year Student Retention (Tier 2)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
22. University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNC Greensboro or UNCG) is home to the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA). Within the college is the Schools of Art, which houses a Studio Art program. Leading to a BFA, the program has a concentration in Animation that explores 2D animation, CGI animation, digital modeling, and concept art. Course examples include Advanced Animation; game Production; Storyboarding for Animation; and Analysis of Global Animation. The culminating experience for the program is the Animation Capstone which includes an industry-ready film, promotional materials, and a portfolio. Graduates can be found at places such as DreamWorks and Epoch Games.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to UNC Greensboro's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Moderate Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 4)
Faculty Size: Small Faculty (Tier 4)
Graduate Employment: Fair Employment Outcomes (Tier 4)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Elevated Student debt (Tier 4)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Moderate First-Year Student Retention (Tier 3)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
23. Florida International University, Miami, Florida
Florida International University (FIU) provides two paths to study animation across two schools. Options include the Digital Arts BFA with an Animation major in the School of Art and Art History, and the Digital Media and Communication BS with an Animation Media major in the Lee Caplin School of Journalism and Media. Program highlights include hands-on projects; the option to take courses from both programs; access to state-of-the-art facilities including a virtual reality lab, computer labs, television studios, and a newsroom; and professional internships. The culminating experience for both programs is an animated project. Graduates have landed positions at places such as Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Disney, Nickelodeon, Electronic Arts (EA), Pixar, MTV, Insomniac Games, Unity Technologies, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Warner Bros., and NBCUniversal.
Florida International University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Florida International's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Moderate Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 4)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Moderate Employment Outcomes (Tier 3)
Admissions Selectivity: Moderately Selective (Tier 3)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Low Student Debt (Tier 2)
Graduation Rate: Moderate Graduation Rate (Tier 3)
First-Year Retention Rate: Exceptional First-Year Student Retention (Tier 1)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
24. Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, Tennessee
Austin Peay State University (APSU) is home to the Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts (CECA), which hosts more than 75 guest artists and over 100 events each year. APSU also houses the Department of Art and Design, which includes 46,000 square feet of state-of-the-art production studios and classrooms. For animators, the department has an Art BFA program with an Animation and Visual Effects concentration. All students have opportunities to Participate in APSU’s Jackson Alley Film Festival and the 24 Hour Animation Contest for Students. Other program highlights include Student Juried Exhibitions with artistic merit awards; professional internships in Nashville, abroad, or virtually; and faculty-led or exchange programs in locations such as South Korea, London, and Paris. The program culminates with the Animation VFX Portfolio course. Graduates have gone on to establish careers at places such as DreamWorks, Sony Pictures Entertainment, and Triggerfish Animation Studios.
Austin Peay State University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Austin Peay's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Strong Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 3)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Limited Employment Outcomes (Tier 5)
Admissions Selectivity: Highly Accessible (Tier 5)
Average Net Cost: Minimal Average Net Cost (Tier 1)
Student Indebtedness: Moderate Student Debt (Tier 3)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Fair First Year Student Retention (Tier 4)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.
25. Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia
Georgia Southern University (Georgia Southern) provides three paths to study animation. Options include the Art BA with a Studio Art concentration; an Art BFA with an Animation concentration; and an Animation and New Media minor. Housed in the Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art (BFSDoArt), all programs allows students to participate in the Animation UK Summer Abroad in Sheffield. This studio course and overseas experience culminates with a collaborative exhibition of student animation projects in a gallery in Sheffield. Other program benefits include hands-on projects; access to state-of-the-art production facilities; and professional internships. The culminating experience for the program is the Senior Practicum and Artist in Studio (Capstone). Graduates have been hired at places such as Disney, Universal Studios, High Museum of Art, MDG New Media, OneKreate, Telfair Museums, and SCAD.
Georgia Southern University — Ranking Factors
The following factors contribute to Georgia Southern's position in Animation Career Review's 2026 animation school rankings.
Academic Peer Recognition: Moderate Academic Peer Recognition (Tier 4)
Faculty Size: Compact Faculty (Tier 5)
Graduate Employment: Limited Employment Outcomes (Tier 5)
Admissions Selectivity: Accessible (Tier 4)
Average Net Cost: Low-mid Average Net Cost (Tier 2)
Student Indebtedness: Elevated Student debt (Tier 4)
Graduation Rate: Low Graduation Rate (Tier 5)
First-Year Retention Rate: Moderate First-Year Student Retention (Tier 3)
Ranking Factor Tiers: Tier 1 represents the strongest performance and Tier 5 represents the weakest performance within each ranking factor.