Start your career as a 2D animator for film, TV and games! CG Spectrum’s offers specialized online career training and mentorship from expert animators working at top studios. Get access to career services and a supportive community. Learn more.
What are the top Dutch animation schools?
| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | HKU University of the Arts | Utrecht |
| 2 | Willem de Kooning Academy | Rotterdam |
| 3 | ArtEZ University of the Arts | Zwolle |
| 4 | Avans University of Applied Sciences | Den Bosch |
Our 2026 rankings of the top animation schools in the Netherlands.
For this ranking we only consider formal degree programs (bachelor's degree or equivalent). For an explanation of our ranking criteria, click here.
1. HKU University of the Arts, Utrecht, Netherlands
The School of Media at HKU University of the Arts (HKU) houses an Animation BDes program with the only 3D specialization in the Netherlands. In addition to coursework that explores animating, designing and directing, the program provides opportunities to create animations for the Dutch television program Twee voor Twaalf. Studentswill also have the opportunity to present final projects and other completed works at events such as the Netherlands Film Festival and Kaboom Animation Festival.
Graduates go on to secure roles at places such as Guerilla Games (part of PlayStation Studios), Submarine, 5 A.M. Studios, PlusOne Amsterdam, Triumph Studios, Mookx, Anikey Studios, Ambassadors, and DEPT.
2. Willem de Kooning Academy, Rotterdam, Netherlands
The Animation Department at Willem de Kooning Academy (WdKA) houses an Animation bachelor’s degree program that covers stop motion, character design, 2D/3D animation, storyboarding, sound design, concept development, drawing, screenwriting, research, and more. Other program highlights include the chance to begin animation on day one; the option to select a specialization; access to state-of-the-art production facilities and workspaces; and professional internships. The program culminates with a graduation film or installation to be presented at presented at the Graduation Show.
Graduates have been hired at places such as Guerilla Games, Nixxes Software, New Vertigo Games, Funk-e, Rituals, and Signify. Program alumni have also founded studios, agencies, and collectives such as New West, From Form, and Studio Wildernis.
3. ArtEZ University of the Arts, Zwolle, Netherlands
ArtEZ University of the Arts has an Animation Design program that provides opportunities to collaborate with students in other majors such as Film and Illustration. The curriculum for this four-year bachelor's degree program takes students through the entire animated filmmaking process from script to post-production to final film. Students will produce films independently and in groups. Other program highlights include courses taught by experienced industry professionals; immersive workshops that focus on experimentation with stop motion, 2D computer animation, VR, and other techniques; and internship opportunities.
The program culminates with a final project and showcase at the ArtEZ Finals in Zwolle. Graduates have secured roles at places such as Submarine, Nexus Studios, Woodwork Amsterdam, and Studio Hari.
4. Avans University of Applied Sciences, Den Bosch, Netherlands
Avans University of Applied Sciences houses St. Joost School of Art and Design. Within the school is the Master Institute of Visual Cultures (MIVC), which provides a studio-based Master of Animation for artists with a bachelor's degree in animation or illustration. The program is also open to individuals with extensive experience in the animation industry. Program highlights include an accelerated one-year format; immersive workshops; group critiques; research seminars; and professional internships. The program culminates with a final project and public screening. Graduates can be found at places such as Nickelodeon, Framestore, Submarine, HeyHeydeHaas, and NRC Newspaper.