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What are the top German animation training programs?
| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Film Academy Baden-Württemberg | Ludwigsburg |
| 2 | PIXL VISN Media Arts Academy | Cologne |
| 3 | Games Academy | Berlin |
Our 2026 rankings of the top animation training programs in Germany.
For this ranking we only consider professional training programs, that is, non-degree programs such as certificate, diploma, and similar programs that are not formal 4-year bachelor's degrees. For an explanation of our ranking criteria, click here.
1. Film Academy Baden-Württemberg, Ludwigsburg, Germany
The Animation Institute at Film Academy Baden-Württemberg (FABW) trains students in animation, games, visual effects, directing, and interactive media. Established in 2002, this competitive institute houses an Animation diploma program with specializations in Animation Directing; Concept Art; and Character Animation. The institute’s VFX diploma program also provides animation training. Highlights across programs include courses led by award-winning industry professionals; hands-on workshops; collaborative projects; and the participation in the annual FMX - Film and Media Exchange conference.
Programs culminate with a final project and presentation. Graduates have secured roles at places such as Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Disney, Weta FX, Pixar, Framestore, Mackevision, and Pixomondo.
2. PIXL VISN Media Arts Academy, Cologne, Germany
PIXL VISN Media Arts Academy provides an accelerated path to become an animator or VFX artist. The 18-month training program features hands-on projects and courses led by accomplished industry professionals. Students also benefit from access to small, focused group activities; access to latest industry technology and tools; and interactive workshops. The program culminates with an original work and professional portfolio. Graduates have worked on productions such as The Mandalorian; Game of Thrones; Black Panther; Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame; The Walking Dead; and Dumbo.
PIXL VISN graduates have also been hired at places such as Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), MPC, Blizzard Entertainment, DNEG, Blizzard Entertainment, Weta FX, Cinesite, Electronic Arts (EA), and Pixomondo.
3. Games Academy, Berlin, Germany
Games Academy is Germany’s first and only college to focus solely on computer and video game production. It is also the oldest state-recognized games school in Europe. In 2019, the school merged with MDH University of Applied Sciences to create one of the largest collections of game design programs in Berlin. This includes a two-year Digital Artist (GA) diploma program that explores color and light, 3D Animation, and 3D Modeling. Other program highlights include courses taught by industry professionals; the opportunity to earn two diplomas in 2.5 years by adding the Game Design (GA) program; and the option to complete the program entirely online or on campus.
The program culminates with several projects and a professional portfolio. Games Academy graduates can be found at places such as DreamWorks, Electronic Arts (EA), Disney, Ubisoft, Epic Games, Pixar, Blizzard Entertainment, Riot Games, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Unity, The Jim Henson Company, Amazon, Valve Corporation, Naughty Dog, Framestore, Insomniac Games, and Sandbox Interactive.