At Academy of Art University's School of Animation & Visual Effects (VFX) aspiring visual effects artists, 2D and 3D animators, and storyboard artists learn from industry professionals in the heart of the animation industry. Learn More.
What is the top animation training program in South Africa?
| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Animation School | Cape Town and Johannesburg |
Our 2024 ranking of the top animation training program in South Africa.
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.
The Animation School, Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa
The Animation School provides several paths to study animation. Students can earn a Digital Animation diploma, or take a six- to seven-week course in 2D Cartoon Animation, 3D Animation or Digital Drawing.
The Digital Animation diploma is a three-year program that allows students to begin animating on day one. In addition, all students will complete a mandatory two-week internship with an animation studio in the third year of the program. Other features include 24/7 access to l state-of-the-art production facilities, labs, and studios; participation in lectures, seminars, and workshops; the chance to enter works in local and international film festivals; and the opportunity to study abroad at the Emile Cohl School in Lyons, France.
In the first year of the Digital Animation program at The Animation School, students will focus on introductory coursework in Animation; Context and Story; Visual Development; and Technical Artistry. In the second year, students will take advanced courses in these areas. The third year is dedicated to developing skills in the students chosen specialization through electives; the internship; professional development; and the group animated short film. This project will be presented at the Third Year Student Showcase with the chance to be released on The Animation School YouTube site at the conclusion of the film festival season. Final films will also become a part of the student’s professional demo reel.
Graduates of the Digital Animation diploma program at The Animation School enjoy a 90-95% employment placement rate. Program alumni have been hired at places such as Sunrise Animation Studios, Polycat Visual Effects, Clear Angle Studios, Triggerfish, Luma Animation, Balisti Studios, The Boiler Room Productions, Giant Animation, and Luncan Studio. Some program alumni have returned to The Animation School as educators.
The Animation School opened in 2000. Today, the school is known as the leading source of specialist animation education in South Africa. With full service campuses in Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa, the school serves hundreds of students each year. The Animation School is a proud member of the Honoris United Universities Network—the first and largest pan-African private education network. The school is also registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training.