Choosing a Right Animation School

A number of computer animation schools offer coursework specifically in computer animation and associated technologies. Programs tend to be practical and prepare students for real-world jobs. As part of this preparation, training programs help students develop a portfolio of their work, which is essential for getting an entry-level job as an animator. Before you decide what school or program to enroll in, think about the work you want to do after you graduate. Different schools focus on different areas of animation and you want to be sure to go to a school that offers courses in your area of interest. Find out the kinds of jobs recent graduates have gotten. Ask if the major companies hire graduates of that school.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the motion picture and video industries is expected to grow 31 percent between 2002 and 2012. This is double the Bureau of Labor Statistics' projected growth for all industries. Animators, multimedia artists, and others skilled in computer-generated imaging should have the best job prospects. Start planning for your future. The growth of animation jobs in the motion picture and video industries results from growing demand for film, cable, and satellite television programming by home viewers, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Animation degrees are designed to equip you with the skills needed to pursue a career in computer animation.

While studying for an animation degree, you'll have the opportunity to study art and computer graphics for the purpose of creating and editing visual images. Coursework may involve classes in topics such as animation and motion studies, computer graphics and multimedia, and drawing. Animation degrees are offered at art schools, technical schools, colleges, and universities. Animation degree programs may offer certificates and associate's degrees, which typically take one to two years. Bachelor's and graduate animation degree programs are also available.

Best Animation Schools: a list of the best schools for 2D Animation, 3D Animation and Video Game Design.

Academy of Art University San Francisco, CA United States

Ex'pression College for Digital Arts Emeryville, CA United States

Intense Animation Studio Singapore, Singapore

New York University Tisch School of the Arts Asia New York, NY United States

VanArts - Vancouver Institute of Media Arts Vancouver, British Columbia Canada

Vancouver Film School Vancouver, British Columbia Canada

Animation Mentor Emeryville, CA United States

NYU Tisch Asia No city or state listed

Fountain Pixels Academy Pune, Maharashtra India

Platt (Media Arts) College - San Diego San Diego, CA United States

Explore a career in computer animation, digital media, or visual effects and give life to your imagination. Begin your dream job by searching our directory of computer animation schools and finding the degree program to launch your career.