| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights |
Our 2023 ranking -our twelfth annual- of the top animation school programs in Kentucky. For an explanation of the ranking criteria, click here.
Northern Kentucky University (NKU) has several pathways to study animation. The school’s College of Informatics houses the School of Media and Communication, which offers a 3D Digital Design and Visual Effects (VFX) BA and a 3D Digital Design and VFX Minor. The NKU College of Arts & Sciences houses the School of the Arts (SOTA), which has a Visual Arts BA with a Studio Arts Animation Track. Note that all programs integrate curricular experiences from one another, with a strong mix of sequential coursework.
The BA and Minor in 3D Digital Design and VFX explore animation, digital media, games visual effects, and 3D content. Core requirements and electives for the BA allow students to focus their studies on animation or other areas. Course examples include Principles of Digital 3D Animation, Digital Arts & Effects, Interactive Storytelling, Digital Compositing, Media Scripting for Interactivity, 3D Hard Surface Modeling, and Analog Game Design. Other required components of the program include Professional Practices and Advanced Portfolio Production.
The experiential Visual Arts BFA Program at NKU requires 70 credit hours in the Studio Arts Animation Track. Course examples include Drawing for Animation, Rigging and Animation, Principles of 3D Digital Animation, Character Animation, 3D Hard Surface Modeling, Topics in Animation, and Animation Studio.
BFA students will complete a Portfolio Review course and the two-course Senior Capstone in Animation. Students will also participate in the Senior Exhibition. During the exhibition, final student works will be critiqued by faculty.
Graduates of the Northern Kentucky University Animation Programs are prepared for careers in areas such as 3D Animation, Game Art, 3D Modeling & Visualization, Visual Effects & Motion Graphics, Digital Design, User Interface Design and User Experience (UI/UX) Design.
Founded in 1968, Northern Kentucky University is a four-year, public university that serves approximately 15,825 students enrolled in more than 200 programs across eight colleges and schools. Northern Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
