| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kansas State University | Manhattan |
| 2 | University of Kansas | Lawrence |
Our 2026 ranking -our fifteenth annual- of the top animation school programs in Kansas. For an explanation of the ranking criteria, click here.
Kansas State University (K-State) provides several paths to study animation. Options include an Immersive Systems Design BS, which can be completed online; a Studio Art BA, BFA, or minor with a Digital and Expanded Media area; and certificates in Immersive Digital Media Design (IDMD) and Interactive 3D Application Design (Animation, 3D Modeling, and Game Design). Across programs, students benefit from state-of-the-art technology centers and labs; seminars, workshops, and studio courses; and internship opportunities. K-State graduates can be found at places such as Disney, NASA, CBS, Hallmark, Discovery, Perkins & Will, JNT Company, Pure Imagination Studios, and C3 Creative NYC.
The School of Architecture and Design (SAD) at University of Kansas (KU) houses the Department of Design. Within the department is a Design BFA program with a concentration in Animation. Program highlights include dedicated studio spaces; opportunities to collaborate with KU partners such as PepsiCo and AT&T; state-of-the-art production facilities and labs; short-term or semester-long internships in the U.S. and abroad; and lectures and workshops led by active industry professionals. The program culminates with an animated short and screening at the Department of Design Senior Show. Graduates have been hired at places such as Disney, Torch.AI, Pixar, Hallmark, and Pure Imagination Studios.
