1. California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, California (Top 1% of colleges considered)
The School of Film/Video (F/V) at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) has an 8:1 student-faculty ratio, with all programs led by working filmmakers, artists, and technicians. Across programs, students have opportunities to present films at the annual F/V Bijou Festival; complete a paid internship with independent and major productions; study abroad in places such as Paris and Prague; and interact with award-winning animators and filmmakers at REDCAT’s film series. F/V program options for animators include the Experimental Animation BFA and MFA, and a Character Animation BFA. CalArts graduates have gone on to secure roles with places such as DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, Sony Pictures Animation, Pixar, Apple, Disney, Netflix, Cartoon Network, Google, Warner Bros., Illumination, and NBCUniversal.
2. Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, Georgia (Top 1% of colleges considered)
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) serves more than 18,500 students from the U.S. 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.
3. University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California (Top 2% of colleges considered)
The School of Cinematic Arts at University of Southern California (USC) is home to the John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts (Hench DADA) and the Expanded Animation Division (EAD). Both allow students to collaborate with students in other divisions such as music, interactive games, and dance. Program options include the Animation + Digital Arts BFA and MFA; the Expanded Animation Research + Practice MFA (XA MFA); and the 3D Animation and Cinematic Arts minor. Programs culminate with an animated project. Graduates can be found at places such as Pixar, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Nickelodeon, DreamWorks Animation, Sony Pictures Imageworks, and Digital Domain.
4. Ringling College of Art and Design, Sarasota, Florida (Top 2% of colleges considered)
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.
5. School of Visual Arts, New York, New York (Top 3% of colleges considered)
Serving nearly 800 students, the Animation Department at School of Visual Arts (SVA) is one of the nation’s largest. Program options include the Animation BFA; a 3D Animation and Visual Effects BFA; and the Computer Arts MFA with a focus in Animation, Motion Design, or Experimental Art. BFA graduates can be found at places such as Cartoon Network, DreamWorks, Lucasfilm Animation, Warner Bros. Animation, Nickelodeon, Walt Disney Animation Studios. Computer Art MFA students have been nominated for 13 Student Academy Awards and won nine. Graduates of this program are routinely hired at places such as Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Sony Pictures Imageworks, Pixar, DreamWorks, MTV, Electronic Arts (EA), Adobe, and Google.
6. Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, Rhode Island (Top 3% of colleges considered)
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is one of the nation’s oldest independent art and design colleges. Students in all programs benefit from hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art production studios; collaborative study; experimental projects; workshops; the First Year in Florence program; and internship opportunities with both local and national studios. The RISD Film/Animation/Video (FAV) Department houses the FAV BFA program that allows students to focus in Animation, Live Action, or Open Media. The program culminates with a professional reel and portfolio to be presented at the RISD Senior Festival. Graduates are routinely hired at places such as Pixar, DreamWorks, HBO, and PBS.
7. University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California (Top 4% of colleges considered)
The School of Theater, Film and Television (TFT) at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) houses the Film, Television, and Digital Media BA (FTVDM-BA) with a concentration in Animation and the highly competitive UCLA Animation Workshop. This option leads to an MFA. The BA prepares students for careers in the entertainment industry or to apply for entry into the MFA program. The BA culminates with a professional internship and final project. MFA students will graduate with an original film. UCLA TFT alumni have been hired at places such as DreamWorks Animation, Sony Pictures Animation, Nickelodeon, Walt Disney Imagineering, Pixar, Netflix, Amazon, NBCUniversal, PBS, and Titmouse.
8. Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, New York (Top 4% of colleges considered)
The School of Art (SoArt) at Pratt Institute (Pratt) houses the Digital Arts and Animation Department. Within the department are several paths to study animation. Options include the Digital Arts BFA (2D Animation); the Digital Arts BFA (3D Animation); and the Digital Arts MFA (3D Animation and Motion Arts). Across programs, students benefit from frequent trips to festivals, exhibitions, shows, and screenings in New York City; collaborative projects; and Studio Crit, which hosts regular critique sessions for student films. Graduates can be found at places such as Nickelodeon, Sony Pictures Imageworks, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), DreamWorks, Cartoon Network, and Disney Animation Studios.
9. Gnomon, Hollywood, California (Top 5% of colleges considered)
Gnomon is an immersive, industry-focused college led by more than 70 working professionals. Programs take place in an environment built to simulate some of the most active Hollywood studios. Degree and certificate options include the Digital Production BFA and the Digital Production for Entertainment (DPE) certificate. Digital Production students can concentrate in Visual Effects Animation or Game Art. All programs focus on the production pipelines in film, games, and visual effects. Students receive extensive training in industry software such as in Houdini, Maya, ZBrush, Unreal Engine, Nuke, V-Ray, and Adobe Substance 3D. Gnomon students will graduate with a professional demo reel. Program alumni enjoy a 100% employment rate. They can be found at places such as DreamWorks, Marvel, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Electronic Arts (EA), Nickelodeon, Riot Games, Weta FX, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Blizzard Entertainment, Sony Pictures Imageworks, and Reel FX.
10. New York University, New York, New York (Top 5% of colleges considered)
New York University’s (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts (Tisch) is home to the Maurice Kanbar Institute of Film and Television. Producing more than 5,000 films annually, the institute houses a Film and Television BFA program with an Animation Area. Students will work with traditional, 2D, 3D, and experimental animation, as well as visual effects and writing for animation. The program culminates with a final animated project. Graduates are prepared to pursue roles at major studios or launch their own studios. Program alumni can be found at places such as Pixar, DreamWorks, and Walt Disney Animation.
11. Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah (Top 6% of colleges considered)
Established in 2010, Brigham Young University (BYU) Center for Animation is an Unreal Academic Partner and Houdini Certified School that accepts no more than 25 students each year. Students can apply to the center through BYU’s Animation BFA program or the Computer Science BS with an Animation and Games emphasis. Program highlights include faculty mentoring; collaborative projects; and opportunities to intern with major studios such as Pixar, DreamWorks, and Disney. Graduates have landed positions at places such as Sony Pictures Animation, Nickelodeon, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Disney, Blizzard Entertainment, Pixar, Hasbro, Riot Games, DreamWorks, and Digital Domain.
12. DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois (Top 6% of colleges considered)
Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media at DePaul University (DePaul) has one of the largest full-time animation faculties in the U.S. Program options for animators include the Animation BFA with concentrations in 3D Animation, Game Art, Cinema Animation, Storyboarding and Character Design, Visual Effects Animation, and Motion Graphics; the Animation BA with the option to create a focus area such as Digital Puppet Animation, Stop Motion, or Sound Design for Animation; a Computer Science (CS) + Animation (CS+ANI) BS with an Animation Technical Director (TD) concentration; an Animation TD minor; and the Animation MA, MFA, BA/MA, and BFA/MA. Graduate concentration options include 3D Animation; Motion Graphics; Storyboarding and Character Design; Technical Artist; and Traditional Animation. Graduates of the Animation programs at DePaul University go on to land roles at places such as DreamWorks Animation, Cartoon Network, Electronic Arts (EA), Disney Animation Studios, Nickelodeon, Epic Games, Warner Bros. Animation, Blizzard Entertainment, Google, and LAIKA.
13. Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas (Top 7% of colleges considered)
The College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts (PVFA) at Texas A&M University (TAMU) is one of the largest visual and performing arts colleges within a public university. This multidisciplinary school provides several paths to study animation including BS, MS, and MFA degrees in Visualization. BS students can focus in Animation Production, while MS students can select an emphasis in Computer Animation. MFA students may focus in Computer Animation, Visual Storytelling, Interactive Art, or Visual Effects. All students benefit from internship opportunities; collaborative projects; the Annual Career Fair; and the Summer Industry Workshop. Visualization graduates are routinely hired at places such as Pixar, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Electronic Arts (EA), DreamWorks Animation, Epic Games, Amazon, Reel FX, Blizzard Entertainment, and Gearbox Software.
14. Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York (Top 7% of colleges considered)
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is home to the School of Film and Animation (SFA). This designated Center of Excellence (COE) by Toon Boon houses MAGIC Spell Studios—a 52,000 square foot state-of-the-art production and screening space. SFA programs include the Film and Animation BFA with an Animation option + 2D, 3D, and Stop Motion Animation tracks; a Motion Picture BS that combines engineering with art, animation, and film; and a Film and Animation MFA with 2D, 3D, and Stop Motion Animation options. Programs culminate with an industry-ready film and public screening event. RIT graduates are routinely hired at places such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, Electronic Arts (EA), Pixar, Nickelodeon, DreamWorks, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Lucasfilm, PlayStation, and Epic Games.
15. ArtCenter College of Design, Pasadena, California (Top 8% of colleges considered)
In the 1980s, ArtCenter College of Design (ArtCenter) became the first design school to install computer labs, helping lay the groundwork for the digital design revolution. For animators, this pioneering institution provides an Entertainment Design BS program with Animation and Concept Design tracks. Program benefits include project-based learning; industry partnerships; transdisciplinary studio (TDS) workshops; and opportunities to collaborate with Game Design, Illustration, and Concept Design students. The program culminates with a capstone project and Grad Show exhibition. With a 95% employment rate, ArtCenter students are routinely hired at places such as Disney, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Sony, DreamWorks, Marvel, LAIKA, Nickelodeon, Universal, Warner Bros., 20th Century Studios, and Netflix.
16. University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas (Top 8% of colleges considered)
The Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication (ATEC) program at University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) launched in 2002, making it the state’s first arts and technology degree. Housed in the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology (Bass School), the program leads to a BA, MA, MFA, or PhD. BA students may concentrate in Animation and Games (A&G), while MFA students may specialize in Animation or Creative Practice. Both the BA and MFA are STEM-designated. MA and PhD students may focus their studies in areas such as animation, science and technology, or games. Culminating experiences may include a capstone project, thesis, or research project with exhibition. Graduates can be found at places such as Pixar, Google, Activision Blizzard, Disney, LAIKA, NBCUniversal, Amazon, Gearbox Software, Microsoft, Dell, IBM, RTX, Meta, and Verizon.
17. The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio (Top 9% of colleges considered)
The Ohio State University (OSU) provides several paths to study animation across the Departments of Art; Theatre, Film, and Media Arts; and Design. Options include the Moving Image Production BA (MIP BA); the Art BFA with an emphasis in Art and Technology; an interdisciplinary Art and Technology MFA; and a Design MFA with a Digital Animation and Interactive Media (DAIM) track. Students in all programs benefit from project-based learning; internships at places such as Netflix and YouTube; study abroad experiences in places such as London, Prague, and Rome; and access to dedicated labs, state-of-the-art production facilities, and shared studio spaces. Graduates have landed positions at Disney, Warner Bros. Animation, Nickelodeon, Starz, ABC, Sundance, 4th Row Films, Ohio Film Group, and Myriad Pictures.
18. School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (Top 9% of colleges considered)
The Film, Video, New Media, and Animation Department (FVNMA) at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) provides two paths to study animation. These include the Studio BFA and MFA. BFA students explore hand-drawn and digital 2D/3D animation; moving-image installation; film and video; interactive art; and AR/VR. The Studio MFA has an FVNMA pathway that allows students to specialize in one specific area or develop skills across multiple areas of study. Specialization examples include Digital 2D and 3D Animation; Moving-Image Installation; and Interactive Art. Programs culminate with a final project and exhibition. SAIC alumni have been hired at places such as Disney, the Whitney Museum, NASA, and YouTube.
19. University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida (Top 10% of colleges considered)
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.
20. Full Sail University, Winter Park, Florida (Top 10% of colleges considered)
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.
21. Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona (Top 15% of colleges considered)
The Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University (ASU) provides several paths to study animation. Options include the Art BFA with a concentration in Animation; the Art MFA with a Digital Technology concentration; and an 18 credit-hour Animation minor. Through electives, MFA students can study stop motion animation, game art, visual effects (VFX), and screenwriting. All students have access to state-of-the-art production facilities and internship opportunities with local studios. Graduates have been hired at places such as Disney, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Adidas, and Intel.
22. Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Top 15% of colleges considered)
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) houses the Robotics Institute and the Integrative Design, Arts and Technology (IDeATe) Network. Together, the institute and network provide an Animation and Special Effects minor for students in any CMU major. Courses for this 45-unit program are immersive and project-based, with titles such as Bipedal Rigging for Animation Production; Experimental Capture; and Storytelling Through Effects Animation. For animation students seeking a BFA, Carnegie Mellon also has an Electronic and Time-Based Media BFA (ETB BFA) program that explores areas such as animation, digital storytelling, and experimental game design. CMU ETB and Animation alumni are routinely hired at places such Walt Disney Animation Studios, Electronic Arts (EA), Sony, DreamWorks Animation, Blizzard Entertainment, MTV, Comedy Central, Take-Two Interactive, Paramount, and Warner Bros. Games.
23. Otis College of Art and Design, Los Angeles, California (Top 15% of colleges considered)
Otis College of Art and Design (Otis) was established in 1918 by the founder of the LA Times, Harrison Gray Otis. Known as LA’s first professional school of the arts, OTIS provides two paths to study animation including an Animation BFA and a competitive two-year Animation certificate. The interdisciplinary, STEM-designated BFA features studio projects every semester and a professional internship. Students in both programs will graduate with a professional portfolio of their work. Otis alumni go on to land roles at positions at places such as DreamWorks Animation, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Pixar, Nickelodeon, Reel FX, Disney, NFL Network, Mattel, Apple, and Netflix.
24. Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Minneapolis, Minnesota (Top 15% of colleges considered)
Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) provides several paths to study animation. Options include the Animation BFA; Animation minor; and Visual Studies MFA. Graduate students may pursue creative work in areas such as animation, comic arts, film/video, illustration, or interactive design. All students have opportunities to intern at Nickelodeon, MTV, or MASS MoCA, among others. Study abroad experiences in places such as Japan and the UK are also on the menu. Degree programs culminate with a project and presentation or exhibition. MCAD graduates have been hired at places such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, Electronic Arts (EA), Apple, Nickelodeon, MTV, Nike, and Walker Art Center.
25. San Jose State University, San Jose, California (Top 15% of colleges considered)
San Jose State University (SJSU) provides several paths to study animation. Options include the Design Studies BA with a specialization in Animation and Illustration; BFA degrees in Animation and Illustration (ANI BFA) and Digital Media Art (BA DMA); a Master of Design (MDes) with a specialization in Animation; and the Digital Media Art MFA. Across programs students benefit from immersive courses taught by industry professionals; internships; guest speakers from places such as Pixar, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and DreamWorks; and access to state-of-the-art production facilities and studios. Graduates have gone on to land positions at places such as Electronic Arts (EA), Sony Pictures, Microsoft, Pixar, Blizzard Entertainment, Google, Disney, NBCUniversal, Lucasfilm, Nickelodeon, 20th Century Studios, and Cartoon Network.
26. Academy of Art University, San Francisco, California (Top 15% of colleges considered)
The STEM-designated School of Animation and Visual Effects at Academy of Art University (AAU) is home to StudioX, where students have the opportunity to work on real films being produced for streaming platforms, theaters, and television. Past productions include Beasts of the Southern Wild, Fruitvale Station, and THEEB. AAU also provides 24/7 remote access to rLab, and programs leading to a certificate or AA, AAS, BFA, MA, and MFA degrees in Animation and Visual Effects. Emphasis areas include 2D Animation; 3D Animation; 3D Modeling; Stop Motion; Storyboarding; and Visual Effects. AAU graduates have been hired at places such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Riot Games, Sony Pictures Animation, Weta FX, DNEG, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Marvel, Google, and LAIKA.
27. Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana (Top 15% of colleges considered)
Purdue University (Purdue) is home to Purdue Polytechnic Institute. Serving more than 7,000 students at 11 locations across Indiana, Purdue Polytechnic houses the Department of Computer Graphics Technology (CGT), which provides several paths to study animation. Options include a CGT BS with a STEM-designated major in Animation and Visual Effects (ANFX); the CGT MS; and a Five-Year CGT BS/MS. All students have the opportunity to complete a professional internship, several animated films, and a study abroad experience. Graduates can be found at places such as Disney, DreamWorks, and Animation Mentor. Some alumni have also gone on to launch their own studios or freelance businesses.
28. Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Boston, Massachusetts (Top 15% of colleges considered)
The Animation Department at Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) has an Animation BFA program that allows students to present first-year projects at the college’s very own Brant Gallery. Other program highlights include dedicated state-of-the-art stop motion stations, classrooms, digital studios, and labs; courses taught by industry professionals; internships; collaborative projects; and campus events such as screenings and exhibitions. Students will graduate with a market-ready animated work and a professional portfolio. Graduates work at places such as Nickelodeon, Disney, Warner Bros. Animation, Netflix, Titmouse, Epic Games, LAIKA, FableVision Studios, Adventure Time, and Storm8.
29. The New School, New York, New York (Top 15% of colleges considered)
The New School is home to Parsons School of Design and the School of Continuing and Professional Education. Within Parsons is a STEM-designated Design and Technology program leading to a BFA or MFA. The school also has a Fine Art BFA program that allows students to study experimental animation and time-based media. An Art, Media, and Technology BFA program is available exclusively at Parsons Paris and Continuing Studies has a Motion Design and Animation certificate program. Across degree options, students benefit from professional internship opportunities, and participation in projects with artists from places such as Nickelodeon, Google, MTV, Apple, The New York Times, IBM, and Intel. Graduates have been hired at places such as DreamWorks, Rockstar Games, Blizzard Entertainment, Disney, Nickelodeon, Riot Games, Microsoft, IDEO, Google, Apple, Oracle, Pentagram, and Meta.
30. Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina (Top 15% of colleges considered)
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.
31. California State University, Long Beach, Long Beach, California (Top 20% of colleges considered)
The School of Art at California State University, Long Beach (Cal State Long Beach or CSULB) has several paths to study animation. Options include a multidisciplinary Art BA with an option in Studio Art; an Art BFA with Animation and Pre-production tracks; the Cinema BA with a Post-Production track; and an Art MFA with a Studio Art concentration and Illustration/Animation track. Across programs students benefit from industry partnerships, guest lecturers, and professional internships. Programs culminate with an animated film or studio project. Graduates are routinely hired with partners such as Pixar, DreamWorks, Activision Blizzard, Cartoon Network, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Sony Pictures Animation.
32. Columbus College of Art and Design, Columbus, Ohio (Top 20% of colleges considered)
Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD) has an Animation BFA program that focuses on 2D and 3D animation, stop motion, and Claymation. Recognized as a Center of Excellence by Toon Boom, the program also explores digital modeling, virtual reality, and motion graphics. Other program benefits include unlimited access to CCAD’s Cloyd Family Animation Center and real-world projects with partners such as American Greetings and the Greater Columbus Arts Council. The program culminates with a final project and presentation. Graduates have been hired at places such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, Cartoon Network, Electronic Arts (EA), Pixar, Nickelodeon, DreamWorks, Riot Games, LAIKA, and Netflix.
33. University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida (Top 20% of colleges considered)
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.
34. Columbia College Chicago, Chicago, Illinois (Top 20% of colleges considered)
The School of Design at Columbia College Chicago has an Animation and Computer Graphics BA program with concentrations in Traditional Animation, Computer Animation, Game Art or Computer Vision and Visual Effects (CVFX). An Animation minor is also available. BA program highlights include specialized classes led by industry professionals; the opportunity to present capstone films at Columbia's Manifest Festival; participation in the Animation Studios in LA Program with past partners such as Disney, Nickelodeon, DreamWorks, and Cartoon Network; and access to state-of-the-art production studios. Graduates go on to land positions at places such Pixar, Bethesda, Disney, Weta FX, DreamWorks, Apple Studios, BioWare, Cartoon Network, Warner Bros. Animation, Nickelodeon, Microsoft, and Bungie.
35. Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida (Top 20% of colleges considered)
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.
36. California State University, Fullerton, Fullerton, California (Top 20% of colleges considered)
The College of the Arts at California State University, Fullerton (Cal State Fullerton or CSUF) houses the Department of Visual Arts. Within the department is an Art BFA program with concentrations in Entertainment Art and Animation (EAA), and Game Art, Animation, and Immersive Media (GAAIM). Programs feature collaborative projects, professional internships, and a culminating capstone experience that focuses on career path development and portfolio-building in animation, game art, immersive media (VR/AR/XR), and virtual production. Program alumni go on to land roles at places such as DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Activision Blizzard, Pixar, Lucasfilm, Warner Bros. Animation, Electronic Arts (EA), Cartoon Network, and Sony Pictures Animation.
37. Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore, Maryland (Top 20% of colleges considered)
The Animation Department at Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) has two paths to study animation including the BFA in Studio and Humanistic Studies and the Animation minor. The BFA includes a 54 credit hour major in Animation, Game Design, Film and Video, Illustration, or Interactive Art, among others. The Animation major is immersive, which allows students to spend the majority of their time creating animated films or other works. The minor consists of 15 credit hours leading to a final project. The BFA program culminates with a year-long capstone/thesis consisting of a film, interactive media work, or installation. Final projects are presented at the MICA Grad Show. MICA graduates can be found at places such as DreamWorks, Disney, MTV, and LAIKA.
38. Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, Ohio (Top 20% of colleges considered)
Animation BFA students at Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA) have the unique opportunity to spend their summers interning at Disney. Other program highlights include field trips to museums; access to state-of-the-art production facilities; and mentorships with accomplished artists from Walt Disney Animation Studios, DreamWorks, and Warner Bros., among others. The program culminates with the BFA Thesis and Exhibition. In addition to Disney, program alumni have been hired at places such as Electronic Arts (EA), Bethesda Softworks, Amazon, DC Comics, American Greetings (CGI Production), and PBS.
39. Kansas City Art Institute, Kansas City, Missouri (Top 20% of colleges considered)
Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) has several paths to study animation. All options follow a mentor-based studio-instruction model, which allows students to customize their studies. Programs include the Animation BFA; an Animation and Art History BFA; and a BFA in Animation and Creative Writing. Programs begin with the First Year Foundation—an immersive experience takes place in a 20,000 square feet space featuring faculty meets, intensive studios, workshops, seminars, and presentations by international speakers. An optional internship is also part of the programs as well as a final animated project. Some program alumni go on to pursue graduate studies at places such as School of Visual Art (SVA) and California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), while others have been hired at Disney, Apple, Nickelodeon, Sony, Digital Domain, Google, Warner Bros., Titmouse, Netflix, Hallmark, and Fox.
40. University of Colorado Denver, Denver, Colorado (Top 20% of colleges considered)
The College of Arts and Media (CAM) at University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) houses the Department of Visual Arts (VA) and the Digital Animation Center (DAC). The department is home to the Visual Arts BFA with an emphasis in 3D Graphics and Animation. Students in the program will work and learn in the DAC, which is a state-of-the-art facility that houses labs, studios, and production areas. All students also have opportunities to complete an internship at places such as Disney and NBCUniversal. The culminating experience for the program is the completion of an industry-ready film and screening at the Visual Arts Thesis Exhibition at Redline Contemporary Art Center or other venue. Program alumni can be found at places such as Pixar, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Disney, Paramount Pictures, Cartoon Network, DreamWorks, Lucasfilm, Warner Bros. Animation, Nickelodeon, Sony, HBO, Google, and Apple.
41. Laguna College of Art and Design, Laguna Beach, California (Top 25% of colleges considered)
The Animation BFA program at Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD) is the school’s largest major. Students in this studio-focused program may choose between two tracks: Character Animation or Experimental Animation. An Animation minor is also available. All students benefit from industry partnerships with major studios such as DreamWorks, Pixar, Epic Games, Nickelodeon, and Cartoon Network. The program culminates with a thesis film, completed across three courses. Graduates are routinely hired by LCAD industry partners. Additional examples include Disney, LAIKA, Blizzard Entertainment, Warner Bros., Epic Games, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), and South Park Digital Studios.
42. DigiPen, Redmond, Washington (Top 25% of colleges considered)
DigiPen was the first school in the world to launch a bachelor’s degree in video game programming. A Certified Partner of SideFX, the school houses a Digital Art and Animation BFA program, and a Digital Arts MFA. Across programs, students benefit from courses taught by independent Disney and Lucasfilm animators; semester- or 12-month long interdisciplinary team-based projects; and opportunities to study abroad at the DigiPen Singapore or Spain campuses. Programs culminate with a professional film or other creative work. To date, DigiPen graduates have been hired by more than 1,250 companies around the world. Examples include Walt Disney Imagineering, Apple, Electronic Arts (EA), DreamWorks, Blizzard Entertainment, Google, Warner Bros. Games, Sony, Nintendo, Amazon, and Riot Games.
43. University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (Top 25% of colleges considered)
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.
44. New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico (Top 25% of colleges considered)
The Creative Media Institute for Film and Digital Arts (CMI) at New Mexico State University (NMSU) houses a Bachelor of Creative Media Animation and Visual Effects (BCM-ANVE) with options in 2D Production Studio, and 3D & VFX Production Studio; a Digital Filmmaking BCM with animation electives; and an 18 credit-hour Animation and Visual Effects minor. All programs provide access to state-of-the-art animation lab, production space, post-production lab, and digital projection screening room. The BCM-ANVE program culminates with an animated film that can be entered into the Las Cruces International Film Festival. The Digital Filmmaking BCM culminates with an individual demo and promotion package. NMSU graduates have gone on to land positions at places such as DreamWorks, Disney, Amazon, Pixar, IBM, Lockheed Martin, NASA, the City of Las Cruces, and Rolls-Royce.
45. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, Denver, Colorado (Top 25% of colleges considered)
The Animation Department at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD) houses an Animation BFA program with 2D Animation and 3D Animation emphasis areas. This collaborative program focuses on the 12 principles of animation and mastering software such as Toon Boom Harmony, Storyboard Pro, and Maya. Other program highlights include participation in intensive portfolio reviews; internship opportunities; and a final project and presentation. The program can be completed in four years, with year-round online and on-campus courses. Graduates have been hired at places such as Pixar, Nickelodeon, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Disney, Epic Games, Sony Pictures Animation, Cartoon Network, Microsoft, LAIKA, Warner Bros., and Blizzard Entertainment.
46. College for Creative Studies, Detroit, Michigan (Top 25% of colleges considered)
College for Creative Studies (CCS) has a STEM-designated Entertainment Arts BFA program with an Animation pathway. A Toon Boom Center for Excellence (COE), the program highlights courses taught by industry professionals and Unreal Authorized Instructors (UAI); study abroad and faculty-led experiences in places such as London, Paris, and India; access to state-of-the-art production studios and labs; and internship opportunities. The program culminates with an animated production. Program alumni can be found at places such as Nickelodeon, Lucasfilm, Disney, Pixar, Cartoon Network, Marvel, DreamWorks Animation, Blizzard Entertainment, Google, Sony Pictures Imageworks, Universal, Titmouse, EA Sports, Warner Bros. Animation, ABC, and WildBrain Studios.
47. University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah (Top 25% of colleges considered)
The Department of Film and Media Arts at University of Utah (U of U or The U) has two paths to study animation including the Film and Media Arts BA (F&MA BA) with an Animation emphasis and the Animation Studies minor. Program features include state-of-the-art classrooms, studios, and production facilities; immersive workshops; professional internships; seminars; and optional study abroad experiences across 26 countries. Programs culminate with an animation project. Graduates have gone on to land positions at places such as Pixar, Lucasfilm, Warner Bros., Nickelodeon, and Paramount.
48. Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California (Top 25% of colleges considered)
The School of Film and Television (SFTV) at Loyola Marymount University (LMU) is home to the Walter and Grace Lantz Undergraduate Animation BA program. This was the nation’s first program to build a motion-capture lab with courses in virtual cinematography (production method used in the film Avatar) and pre-visualization. This Animation BA program features opportunities to complete an internship with partners such as DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, Disney, HBO, and Netflix. Students also benefit from faculty-led study abroad experience experiences in places such as Kyoto, Paris, Amsterdam, and Seoul. The BA program culminates with the Senior Thesis Project/Production course worth three credit hours.
Graduates have gone on to create animated series such as Johnny Bravo (1997- 2004, Cartoon Network) or to work on major productions and series such as Superman, The Simpsons, and Wonder Woman. Alumni have also been hired at places such as Walt Disney Animation Studios, Cartoon Network, DreamWorks, Warner Bros., Amazon MGM Studios, Sony Pictures Animation, and Nickelodeon.
49. Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Top 25% of colleges considered)
The Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design at Drexel University has several paths to study animation. Options include a BS in Animation and Visual Effects (VFX); Digital Media MS; Dual Animation and VFX BS/Digital Media MS; Digital Media and Virtual Production BS/Digital Media MS; Digital Media PhD; and a minor in Animation and VFX. The Digital Media programs are STEM Designated. Across all programs students have the opportunity to complete a paid or unpaid co-op at places such as Pixar or Cartoon Network. Students also enjoy small class sizes and access to state-of-the-art production facilities. Graduates have gone on to work on projects such as The Mandalorian and Avengers: Infinity War. Alumni have also been hired at places such as DreamWorks, Pixar, Microsoft, Disney, and NCSoft.
50. University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Top 25% of colleges considered)
University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) provides several paths to study animation. Options include BA degrees in Fine Arts, and Fine Arts and Design; a Bachelor’s of Engineering and Science (BSE) in Digital Media Design (DMD); the DMD minor; and a Computer Graphics and Game Technology (CGGT) Engineering MS (MSE). Across programs, students have access to state-of-the-art production facilities such as the SIG Center for Computer Graphics and Penn Animation Research Lab. Across programs, graduates are routinely hired at place such as DreamWorks, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Microsoft, Pixar, Walt Disney Animation, Electronic Arts (EA), Google, Zynga, Activision Blizzard, and Sony.
