Top 10 Animation Colleges in USA That Bring Your Art to Life

Dreaming of bringing characters to life through stunning visuals? With advanced technology, globally acclaimed faculty, and world-class infrastructure, it’s no wonder there are top animation colleges in USA for aspiring professionals.

Whether you want to work on 2D storytelling, 3D modeling, or VFX wizardry, here’s a list of the top animation schools in America. With internationally recognized certifications and strong career opportunities, you can become a professional animation artist in the country.

‍Reasons to Choose the USA for Animation Courses

You will find several top colleges for animation in USA. However, have you ever wondered why this country is considered a leading destination for pursuing these courses? Let’s understand the reasons below:

Working Opportunities: International animators may find the USA to be an ideal destination for studies because it is home to various graphics and animation hubs. Prominent companies like Google, Deloitte, DreamWorks, Salesforce, and others often employ candidates who know animation.
Competitive Salaries: Professionals who studied in some of the best animation colleges in USA earn an average annual salary of $54,000 annually. This makes their base pay around $41,000 to $75,000 per year.
Employment Opportunities: In the United States, employment for animators and special effects artists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2022 to 2033. This indicates a steady and growing market for those who study in the USA.

Check out the top colleges offering an animation course in USA below!

7 Best Animation Colleges in the USA for International Students

Embarking on an animation or VFX course in USA can provide you with a comprehensive and enriching experience. This will also lay a strong foundation for your career in animation. Check out these top animation schools in the US:

1. California Institute of the Arts

The California Institute of the Arts is one of the top animation universities in USA that provides intellectually demanding and aesthetically innovative programs in animation for undergraduate and graduate students.

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Category	Information
Location	Santa Clarita, California, United States
Course Name	BFA Experimental Animation; MFA Experimental Animation
Duration	BFA: 4 years; MFA: 3 years
Tuition Fees	$60,650
Eligibility	Complete an application and all program-specific requirements Artist Statement Portfolio Brief video introduction Additional written materials Two letters of recommendation

2. Savannah College of Art and Design

Considered one of the top animation schools in USA, the Savannah College of Art and Design offers both undergraduate and graduate courses in animation. These courses help students learn 2D and 3D designs, stop motion animation, and more.

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Category	Information
Location	Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Course Name	BFA in Animation BA in Animation MFA in Animation
Duration	BFA: 4 years BA: 4 years MFA: 3 years MA: 3 years
Tuition Fees	BFA and BA: $42,165 MFA and MA: $43,155
Eligibility - Undergraduate	Official high school diploma Official and unofficial transcripts Evidence of English proficiency (TOEFL: 85, IELTS: 6.5) Supplementary materials like recommendations, statement of purpose, portfolio, resume, and SAT/ACT scores Documents for visa application Additional material
Eligibility - Graduate	Bachelor's degree or its equivalent Portfolio Recommendations Resume Statement of purpose Evidence of English proficiency (TOEFL: 85, IELTS: 6.5) Interview (if applicable) GRE scores (if applicable) Documents for visa application

3. Ringling College of Art and Design

The Ringling College of Art and Design is among the top animation schools in the United States and offers a world-renowned Computer Animation BFA program. As part of the program, you will quickly learn to create characters and tell their stories.

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Category	Information
Location	Sarasota, Florida, United States
Course Name	BFA in Computer Animation
Duration	4 years
Tuition Fees	$54,400
Eligibility	Common Application Form with a non-refundable $70 application fee Official copy of your transcript from high school; Visual art or written portfolio; Evidence of English proficiency (TOEFL: 61, IELTS: 6.0, Duolingo: 90) Proficiency Test Letters of recommendation

4. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California offers some of the top animation programs in the US for undergraduate and graduate aspirants. These courses cover key topics like character animation, experimental animation, visual effects, and 3D computer animation.

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Category	Information
Location	Los Angeles, California, United States
Course Names	BA in Animation and Digital Arts BFA in Animation and Digital Arts MFA in Animation and Digital Arts
Duration	BA and BFA: 4 years MFA: 3 years
Tuition Fees	BA and BFA: $69,904 per year MFA: $60,478 per year
Eligibility (Undergraduate)	Official copies of academic records from secondary or senior secondary schools, pre-university programs, and colleges/universities External examination results (e.g., GCSE/IGCSE results) Bank statement Bank letter Organizational sponsor (government, corporation, etc.) Approved/sanctioned education loans ('In-principle' sanctioned loans are not accepted) Investment portfolio
Eligibility (Graduate)	GRE/GMAT and other required tests Resume; Recommendation letters Completed application form Official English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Cambridge English) Transcripts and test scores

5. School of Visual Arts

The School of Visual Arts is one of the best schools for animation in the world. Known for its industry-driven curriculum, SVA equips students with skills in 2D, 3D, and stop-motion animation, along with storytelling, character development, and visual effects.

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Category	Information
Location	Manhattan, New York, United States
Course Names	BFA 3D Animation and Visual Effects BFA Animation
Duration	4 years
Tuition Fees	$26,700 per semester
Eligibility	Application form and fee Statement of intent Portfolio High school transcripts Demonstration of English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge English, PTE, Duolingo)Recommendation Letters

6. University of California, Los Angeles

Considered one of the best animation universities in USA, the University of California offers a graduate degree program for aspirants. This prepares them for more advanced and professional roles in the visual arts and animation.

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Category	Information
Location	Los Angeles, California, United States
Course Name	MFA Animation
Duration	3 years
Tuition Fees	$36,297
Eligibility	Minimum six quarters of graduate residence in the department Minimum 72 units (18 classes) for the degree At least five graduate-level numbered courses Minimum course load is 12 units per quarter

7. Rhode Island School of Design

The Rhode Island School of Design is one of the best animation colleges in America that offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program in animation. It provides students with a strong foundation in traditional and digital animation techniques, storytelling, and character design.

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Category	Information
Location	Providence, Rhode Island, United States
Course Name	BFA in Film/Animation/Video
Duration	4 years
Tuition Fees	$63,966
Eligibility	Official transcripts of all secondary academic work Advanced Placement (AP), A-Level classes, and International Baccalaureate (IB) credits English language proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) Portfolio College Essay Letters of recommendation

Career Opportunities after Animation Courses in the USA

Before enrolling in any of the top animation universities in USA, you should know that the industry offers multiple career opportunities for aspiring graduates. Let’s break down some of the most exciting options you can pursue after completing an animation course in USA:

Advertising Account Manager: These professionals serve as the bridge between clients and creative teams, ensuring that campaigns align with client goals. They manage deadlines, budgets, and oversee the execution of creative projects.
Art Director: This professional guides the visual elements of media campaigns, films, games, and advertisements. They often lead design teams and ensure that the visual style meets the project’s creative vision.
Advertising Manager: They plan and direct promotional campaigns across multiple platforms. These managers also coordinate with clients, creatives, and media buyers to ensure successful ad placement and impact.
Animator: Animators bring stories to life through motion graphics, 2D/3D models, and visual storytelling. They often work in films, video games, and online media, using software to create dynamic visuals.
Broadcast Administrator: They oversee the operations of radio or television stations. These professionals also ensure compliance with regulations and handle programming schedules, contracts, and station logistics.
Advertising Coordinator: These professionals manage the day-to-day logistics of advertising campaigns. They assist with creative development, scheduling, and tracking performance metrics for ongoing campaigns.
Director of Graphic Design: A leader who mentors a team of designers and sets an aesthetic direction. They ensure brand consistency across visual assets, campaigns, and digital platforms.

Student Housing Options for Students near Top US Colleges

Finding the right accommodation in the USA is just as important as searching for the best animation schools in America. Below are some of the best options for international student housing:

Animation School-Provided Housing: Many accredited animation universities in USA offer accommodation options for students. These apartments or studio rooms are often located near the institution, making them a convenient choice.
Rental Apartments: If your institution does not provide housing, renting an apartment is an excellent alternative. You can opt for private apartments, shared units, or short-term leases based on your needs.

If you are still searching for the perfect student housing in USA, Amber can help! The student housing platform makes it easier for you to find affordable and well-located accommodation.

Choosing a masters in animation USA is a big decision that helps you build the foundation of your professional career. So, amber can assist you in finding hassle-free student accommodation through verified listings, secure bookings, and additional support.

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