| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Iowa | Iowa City |
Our 2023 ranking -our twelfth annual- of the top animation school program in Iowa. For an explanation of the ranking criteria, click here.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at University of Iowa (U of Iowa) houses the School of Art and Art History. Established in 1936, the School provides opportunities to study across disciplines. Within the School is the Department of Cinematic Arts, which also provides opportunities to study animation through several degree programs.
Degree options include the Cinema BA and Minor, the Film Studies MA, the MFA in Film and Video Production, and the Film Studies PhD. Across all programs, students may choose coursework that explores Animation, Experimental Film, Documentary Film, and Film Production. Course examples include Animation, Digital Production: Animation, Film/Video: Image Design, Video for Performance, Digital Arts, Modes of Film and Video Production, Screenwriting: Short Form, Film/Video Production: Video Games and Identity, Alternative Forms, and Film and Media Practicum. To learn about careers in film, all Department of Cinematic Arts students may enroll in Film/Video Production: The Business of Filmmaking.
Program highlights include workshops, group critiques, participation in film festivals, individual advising sessions, mock job interviews, and access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. The University of Iowa Department of Cinematic Arts also offers ample opportunities to gain work experience through the internship program housed in the Pomerantz Career Center and the student-run Student Video Production (SVP) Club. In addition, the Department also hosts panels with faculty members and students may join EPX Studio—a student run organization that supports artists and their game, animation, and digital projects. The Studio also hosts trips to studios and conferences.
Graduates of the Film Programs at University of Iowa enter the job market with a professional portfolio of their best work. University of Iowa Film graduates can be found at studios, entertainment companies, and agencies in Hollywood, New York, Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco, and Milwaukee, among others.
University of Iowa was founded in 1847, making it the state’s oldest college. The school serves approximately 31,655 students enrolled in more than 200 undergraduate areas of study and 100+ graduate areas. Programs at U of Iowa are housed in 12 academic colleges. University of Iowa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
