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Accredited Animation Programs
Colleges with an undergraduate animation program usually require applicants to meet general admission criteria. However, some schools give preference to applicants who submit a portfolio of their work in animation, whether in digital or hard copy format. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reveals that multimedia artists and animators earned a median salary of $75,270 in 2019, much higher than the annual median salary of all other workers ($39,810).
Graduates of an accredited animation program typically qualify for jobs as concept artists, graphic designers, or product developers, among others. After a few years of experience in the field and depending on their focus and professional interest, animators often take on work as art directors, video game designers, and film editors. Many animators work indoors, either in an office or from home, and their work often includes collaboration with peers, product or project managers, and clients.
FAQ Animiation Degrees
What degrees do animators need?
Ideally, an animator holds a degree in animation from an accredited institution. However, a bachelor's in a related field, such as art or computer graphics, often suffices for entry-level positions in the industry.
How long does it take to get an animation degree?
An undergraduate animation degree typically takes four years to complete. However, other factors impact completion time including enrollment status and whether a student pursues an on-campus or online animation degree.
Is animation a good career?
The BLS projects a 4% growth rate for animation jobs, on par with the projected growth rate for jobs in other arenas. Steady job growth and a higher-than-average median wage means animators can expect to enter a robust job market after graduation.
Can I study animation online?
Yes, several colleges and universities now offer animation degrees online, including degree completion programs. However, degree completion programs require students to hold an associate degree or a minimum of 60 transferable credits.
Sponsored Schools
What Are the Goals of an Animation Degree?
Many colleges and universities across the country offer a two-year associate or a four-year bachelor's degree in animation. Several institutions also offer postgraduate degrees in the field. Some programs give enrollees the option of specializing in niche areas such as special effects, computer animation, and modeling.
A typical animation curriculum includes coursework in color and composition, character animation, 2-D and 3-D modeling, and motion graphics. Many colleges and universities offer an online degree in animation in addition to their on-campus program, giving students greater flexibility.
Why Get an Animation Degree?
Students who complete an animation program from an accredited institution enjoy the professional and personal benefits listed below.
- Build a Portfolio of Work
- Through individual or group projects, animation students compile a portfolio of work that showcases their ability and creativity. Employers often expect animation applicants to submit a portfolio.
- Develop Professional Network
- Most animation programs include internship and mentoring opportunities that give enrollees the chance to develop connections in the industry, which often become professional recommendations after graduation.
- Increase Credibility
- An animation degree presents the holder as a serious and disciplined professional who possesses the knowledge and training required to carry out the artistic and creative requirements of different types of jobs in the field.
- Hone Individual Abilities
- A well-designed animation program gives students plenty of opportunities to explore and improve their individual abilities through coursework and hands-on training.
- Improve Collaboration Skills
- Throughout an undergraduate or graduate animation program, enrollees work closely with their peers and instructors. They develop crucial collaboration skills required in the majority of jobs in animation.
What Are the Requirements for an Animation Degree?
High school graduates planning to pursue an online animation degree usually submit the same materials as applicants to an on-campus program. Application requirements typically include SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, a minimum GPA, and a portfolio or work samples that demonstrate their artistic ability. Most schools require working applicants to include a portfolio, but not test scores. Schools also assess the capability of online students for self-directed learning.
Animation programs often require degree candidates to make a formal presentation of their work to an academic panel prior to graduation. Final requirements vary among schools, but often include a comprehensive exam, a capstone project, or the completion of a practicum or internship experience.
Most Affordable Online Animation Degrees
#1 Best Animation Degrees 2022
Savannah College of Art and Design
- Savannah, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Savannah College of Art and Design offers animation students an online master's degree in animation that is a top-ranked program in its class. The program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. The master's degree gives graduates the credential they need to pursue a terminal degree, like a doctorate.
The school invests in an online platform that prioritizes user-friendliness and efficiency. The flexible program grants students more control over their schedules and makes education easier to fit around other priorities. Another benefit is the support that enrollees receive from faculty, along with services such as career advising to help enrollees plan their future.
For consideration, applicants usually need a bachelor's degree. The admittance rate to this school is 96%, with some differences possible across programs. If accepted, students in Georgia can expect to pay about $38,475 per year before grants, loans, and scholarships.
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Animation Degrees 2022
Ball State University
- Muncie, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ball State University’s academic catalog includes rigorous graduate education that is available online. The MA in emerging media design and development program has a lot of the qualities people with a bachelor’s in media design need to advance their education in this field. The program blends academic rigor and online course delivery that is flexible and affordable.
The school’s 14-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio provides personalized learning opportunities to students. The biggest attraction is the educational attainment acquired when learners complete the rigorous curriculum delivered by experts. Graduates leave the program prepared for careers in academia, business, and industry. Some graduates enroll in a doctoral program.
Indiana students pay a yearly average of $8,850, while those living elsewhere pay $21,954 per year. The financial aid options available to qualifying students include grants and scholarships to help fund their master’s program. The comprehensive suite of financial aid options also include students loans, which about 56% of the school’s enrollees use to fund some or all of their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Animation Degrees 2022
Lynn University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lynn University, a private school located in Boca Raton, Florida, specializes in rigorous programs that meet the diverse needs of today's learners. The institution’s 10 master's degrees available from a distance help make the college a leader in online graduate education. Learners interested in animation can pursue the communication master's degree with a specialization in digital media.
Graduate students often appreciate online education's flexibility and adaptability. Caretakers, workers, and other busy enrollees may find it easy to work this master’s degree into their schedule. The online format allows faculty to seamlessly integrate academic rigor, advanced career preparation, and flexible scheduling.
Applicants receive admittance at a rate of 74% per year, but some programs may vary. Master's degree-seekers usually need a bachelor's degree in the major or a related field to receive consideration. Consult with the department to find out more about entrance and application requirements, such as transcripts, interviews, and recommendation letters.
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
