Discover the Best Animation Schools of 2015 for Your Creative Career

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Animation is a field that has been thriving for years and continues to grow to this day. With recent technological advancements, more and more people are showing interest in pursuing animation as their career. Aspiring animators are constantly on the lookout for ways to enhance their skills, and the best way to do so is by enrolling in a top animation school.

Are you interested in becoming an animator but unsure which school to choose? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the top animation schools of 2015.

First on our list is California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), which offers impressive programs in Graphic Design and Character Animation. CalArts has produced many successful animators, some of whom include Tim Burton and John Lasseter.

If you’re searching for a school with a broader scope, look into Ringling College of Art and Design. Aspiring animators can enroll in Computer Animation, Game Art, or Motion Design.

Next up is Gnomon School of Visual Effects. With courses in Entertainment Design and Digital Production, Gnomon has become renowned for producing some of Hollywood’s greatest animators, including Alfonso Cuarón and David Fincher.

In addition to those powerhouse schools, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offers fantastic classes in Animation, Interactive Design and Game Development.

Seeking to further hone your 3D animation skills? Attend the New York Film Academy. Aside from Animation, it also provides courses in Filmmaking, Screenwriting and Acting.

At the same time, Vancouver Film School (VFS) provides one of the best courses in 2D and 3D animation. It also offers Motion Capture and Visual Effects programs.

Would you like to delve into the world of video gaming? Full Sail University is a perfect school for you! With courses focused on Game Development and Computer Animation, it offers one-of-a-kind programs that perfectly blend together.

If you prefer a more traditional approach, Sheridan College in Ontario, Canada might be the right choice for you. Their courses are mostly in 2D animation, but they also have programs in interactive media and computer animation.

Lastly, let’s not forget about Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). With rigorous courses in Animation and Graphic Design, this school has produced highly successful designers and animators that have reshaped the industry!

In summary, each school has its own unique set of qualities that make it stand out from the rest. By focusing on your strengths and interests, you’ll find the right school for your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring, apply to your dream school, and get ready to become a successful animator!


While pursuing a career in animation, choosing the right school can be the deciding factor in how successful you become. Attending a top-ranking animation school ensures that you receive quality education and training that can set you apart in the competitive world of animation. Here are the top animation schools of 2015:

California Institute of the Arts

The California Institute of the Arts is rightfully known as the birthplace of modern animation, having produced many renowned animators including Tim Burton. The school offers both undergraduate and graduate programs through its School of Film/Video and School of Art. CalArts courses cover all aspects of animation such as traditional, hand-drawn, and computer-generated effects.

Rhode Island School of Design

The Rhode Island School of Design is one of the leading design schools in the US and offers a fantastic undergraduate program in animation. While some may argue that this school is not entirely focused on animation, it still provides excellent quality education and a strong focus on design and art in general.

School of Visual Arts

The School of Visual Arts in New York is another formidable contender for the top animation school. It prepares its students with a broad range of skill-sets necessary to succeed in an animation career. Their programs emphasize collaboration, professionalism, and networking since these factors are essential when working in the animation industry.

Ringling College of Art and Design

The Ringling College of Art and Design is located in Sarasota, Florida, and offers an animation degree in both digital and traditional media. The school prides itself on providing an exceptional level of training and affords its students the opportunity to hone their skills. The college believes in graduating not just talented animators but also well-rounded individuals.

Savannah College of Art and Design

The Savannah College of Art and Design, more commonly known as SCAD, ranks as one of the best colleges to pursue an animation major. The school boasts of having a faculty with experience in every aspect of animation. SCAD offers students the chance to learn and grow in an environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and team building skills.

University of Southern California

The University of Southern California in Los Angeles offers an animation major through its renowned School of Cinematic Arts. The school provides its students with a strong foundation in traditional animation techniques and enables learners to specialize in character animation, 3D environments, or visual effects. The curriculum encompasses everything required to make graduates industry-ready, showcasing their talent, skills, and creativity to potential employers.

Gnomon School of VFX

The Gnomon School of VFX in Hollywood is famous for its undergraduate and graduate programs in visual effects. Their courses range from traditional animation to computer-generated imagery, and they provide learners with hands-on training using cutting-edge technology. The school's focus on teaching real-world production techniques makes it one of the best institutions to study visual effects.

Animation Mentor

If you're looking for online animation schools, Animation Mentor is certainly worth considering. The institution has been ranked highly for online animation education, providing students with a wide selection of courses taught by professional animators. These instructors share their knowledge and expertise through pre-recorded video lectures, webinars, and online feedback sessions.

Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University in Utah is an excellent choice for those interested in pursuing a degree in animation. The school's prestigious animation program is taught primarily through an LDS perspective and encompasses both traditional as well as digital animation. The faculty emphasizes collaboration between students since this is a key component in achieving a successful animation project.

La Salle College of Arts

Last but not least on our list is the La Salle College of Arts, located in Singapore. The school's digital animation program provides students with practical training in various animation techniques, including 2D, 3D, and stop-motion animation. Still, the most significant advantage is their strong industry links and alumni network, which regularly provides internship and work opportunities to graduates.

The above-listed schools have consistently ranked high for several years in animation education, not only in the United States but worldwide. Considering any of these schools can help set you on your way to a career in the high-paced, creative world of animation.


Comparison of Top Animation Schools in 2015

Introduction

Animation has become an integral part of the entertainment industry over the years. People are drawn to movies, short films, video games, and television shows that have impressive graphics, stunning visual effects, and captivating storylines. As a result, many individuals are looking for the best animation schools to enroll in to gain the necessary skills and knowledge for a career in the field. In this article, we will discuss the top animation schools in 2015, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.

The Criteria for the Top Animation Schools in 2015

To come up with this list, various factors were considered, including the curriculum, faculty, facilities, campus resources, and job placement rates. Also, the opinions and reviews of students who have attended these schools or graduated from them were taken into account.

Ringling College of Art and Design

Ringling College of Art and Design is one of the best animation schools in the United States. The institution's animation program focuses on developing students' storytelling abilities and technical prowess. Students are taught traditional 2D animation techniques and modern 3D tools like Maya and ZBrush. They learn how to conceptualize, storyboard, model, texture, light, and animate characters and objects for film, gaming, and other visual media. The college employs world-class animators as instructors and provides state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including a motion capture studio, a green screen stage, and rendering farms. Graduates from Ringling College of Art and Design have high job placement and salary rates.

California Institute of the Arts

The California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) is another top-tier animation school that offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. CalArts is renowned for its experimental and interdisciplinary approach to animation education. The curriculum focuses on allowing students to explore various animation styles, from traditional hand-drawn to stop-motion and computer-generated. Students are encouraged to collaborate with peers from other disciplines, such as music, dance, and theater, to create innovative and original work. CalArts has produced many successful animators, including Pixar's John Lasseter and Pete Docter. However, the tuition fees for this school are relatively high compared to other animation schools.

Rochester Institute of Technology

The Rochester Institute of Technology's School of Film and Animation is among the top-ranked animation schools globally. The program has a strong emphasis on technical skills, preparing students to be proficient in software like Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, and Cinema 4D. The faculty has diverse backgrounds, including traditional animators, game developers, and industry professionals. The school also boasts excellent resources, such as a Dolby Atmos sound mixing room, a motion capture system, and a game design lab. Graduates from Rochester Institute of Technology have gone on to work for prominent studios like DreamWorks, Industrial Light & Magic, and Cartoon Network.

Savannah College of Art and Design

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is a private, nonprofit university that specializes in creative fields like illustration, graphic design, and animation. The animation program at SCAD covers a wide range of topics, such as character design, 2D and 3D animation, modeling, texturing, and rigging, while also instilling students with storytelling skills. It is worth noting that SCAD has one of the most extensive collections of animation equipment in the world, including advanced motion capture technology, virtual reality devices, and sound recording studios. Alumni from SCAD have landed jobs at major studios such as Disney, Pixar, and Nickelodeon.

School of Visual Arts

The School of Visual Arts (SVA) is located in the heart of New York City and is one of the most prestigious animation schools in the world. The animation program is intensive and focuses on storytelling, narrative structure and design, character development, and filmmaking techniques. Students learn how to use industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, and Toon Boom Harmony. The faculty includes award-winning animators and designers, who provide personal attention to each student. Graduates from SVA have an excellent reputation in the industry and have worked on acclaimed productions like The Lion King, The Simpsons, and South Park.

Comparison Table

Schools Strengths Weaknesses
Ringling College of Art and Design State-of-the-art facilities, high job placement rates, emphasis on storytelling High tuition fees
California Institute of the Arts Experimental and interdisciplinary approach, high-profile alumni, extensive film and sound equipment Expensive tuition fees
Rochester Institute of Technology Focus on technical skills, diverse faculty, well-equipped resources Location outside the major cities might pose a challenge
Savannah College of Art and Design Wide range of topics covered, large collection of animation equipment High tuition fees, limited location options
School of Visual Arts Intensive and comprehensive curriculum, excellent industry reputation Location in a busy city may be challenging for some students

Conclusion

The animation industry is continuously growing with technological advancement and innovation. Animation schools play a crucial role in shaping the industry by producing skilled animators who go on to create stunning visuals that capture the hearts of audiences worldwide. This comparison article has highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the top animation schools in 2015, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their educational pursuits.

Top Animation Schools in 2015: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Animation has come a long way since the days of hand-drawn cel animation. Today, animators have access to cutting-edge technology and top-of-the-line software that allows them to create stunning visuals and amazing special effects. However, choosing the right animation school can be a daunting task, with so many options available. In this article, we'll take a look at the top animation schools in 2015 and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

The Criteria

To determine which schools made our list, we used the following criteria: - Academic Reputation- Quality of Faculty- Available Resources (i.e., equipment, software, etc.)- Student Work/Portfolio Quality- Accessibility to Industry Professionals

1. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)

CalArts is one of the top animation schools in the country, if not the world. Founded by Walt Disney himself, CalArts has a long history of producing top-tier talent for the animation industry. Its faculty includes many prominent animators, and its state-of-the-art facilities provide students with access to the latest technology and equipment. CalArts' animation programs include character animation, experimental animation, and more.

2. Ringling College of Art and Design

Ringling College of Art and Design is located in Sarasota, Florida and is a top choice for many aspiring animators. It boasts a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for careers in the animation industry, and its award-winning faculty includes animators from notable studios such as Pixar and DreamWorks. Ringling's animation program covers a wide variety of specialties, including 3D animation, visual development, and storyboarding.

3. Sheridan College

Located in Oakville, Ontario, Sheridan College is one of Canada's top animation schools. Its animation program is well-known for its emphasis on the practical skills needed to succeed in the industry, including both traditional and digital animation techniques. Sheridan's faculty includes many talented animators with years of experience in the industry, and its graduates have gone on to work on some of the biggest animated films and TV shows of recent years.

4. Gobelins

Gobelins, l'école de l'image, located in Paris, France, is a top animation school that attracts students from all over the world. Its animation program is intensive and covers a wide range of topics, from traditional drawing techniques to 3D modeling and animation. Gobelins has a reputation for producing talented animators with a unique artistic sensibility, and its alumni include some of the most successful animators in Europe.

5. Vancouver Film School

Vancouver Film School is a top choice for aspiring animators interested in working in the film and video game industries. Its animation program covers many different specialties, including character animation, visual effects, and 3D modeling. Vancouver Film School boasts a talented faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, as well as close ties to the local animation industry and ample opportunities for networking.

In Conclusion

Choosing an animation school is an important decision that will have a major impact on your future career. The schools listed here represent some of the best options available and offer students unparalleled access to cutting-edge technology, talented teachers, and a wealth of resources. No matter which school you choose, be prepared to work hard and dedicate yourself to mastering the craft of animation – it's a challenging field, but one that can be incredibly rewarding for those who are willing to put in the time and effort.

Top Animation Schools 2015

Animation has become an important entertainment industry globally. From television series to ad campaigns, animated productions are increasingly popular among audiences of all ages. Consequently, there is a high demand for skilled animators, and a growing trend towards animation careers. This article highlights some of the top animation schools for aspiring animators in 2015.

Firstly, California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) is one of the top animation schools globally. CalArts boasts an impressive list of alumni, including Pixar's Andrew Stanton and Tim Burton. The school offers a comprehensive program that covers not only traditional animation techniques, but also cutting-edge technology such as 3D printing and virtual reality.

Another leading institution is the School of Visual Arts in New York City. The school's animation program is diverse, with courses in different facets of the industry such as character design and stop-motion animation. Students receive personal attention thanks to a low student-to-faculty ratio, and have access to state-of-the-art equipment.

Ringling College of Art and Design in Florida, one of the largest art institutions in the United States, is also known for its animation program. Ringling sets itself apart by having a curriculum that focuses on preparing students for work in the industry. Students benefit from internships, job fairs, and a range of specializations within the program.

The Animation Program at Sheridan College in Canada is at the forefront of the industry. The program is so well-regarded that many renowned animation studios recruit graduates before they even finish their degrees. With a faculty consisting of experienced professionals, students gain valuable insights into the industry. A focus on both traditional and digital techniques makes it easier for them to transition into professional work environments.

Other notable institutions include Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), offering an animation program that emphasizes the exploration of diverse styles and concepts. RISD encourages students to develop their creative voice and provides a platform for them to showcase their work.

Another one on the list is Vancouver Film School (VFS), which has been recognized for its intensive, fast-paced approach to animation training. The school offers a year-long program that covers everything from traditional animation techniques to the latest software programs, giving students a comprehensive education.

Carnegie Mellon University's School of Art in Pittsburgh integrates technology and animation design into its curriculum, creating a dynamic learning experience. Students learn to use emerging technologies and practical design skills, with a focus on collaboration and innovation.

Florida State University's College of Motion Picture Arts has a renowned animation program that provides a comprehensive education on different animation techniques. More than just producing animators, the program trains artists who can bring creative ideas to life. It aims to prepare students for careers in a range of industries such as gaming and advertising.

Rounding off this list is the National Taiwan University of Arts (NTUA), whose animation program combines principles of traditional Chinese art with modern animation techniques. This unique approach inspires creativity and originality and has resulted in award-winning student work.

Choosing an animation school can be a daunting task. Aspirants should do thorough research and select schools based on personal preferences, long-term goals, and individual learning styles. With these top schools, students are guaranteed a world-class animation education that prepares them for a successful career in the industry.

Thank you for reading our article about the top animation schools in 2015. We hope it was helpful in your search for the perfect animation school. Remember, animation is a dynamic and exciting field, and with the right education, you can be part of a team that creates some of the most beloved animated productions in the world.


People Also Ask About Top Animation Schools 2015

What are the top animation schools of 2015?

The top animation schools of 2015 according to various rankings and publications include:

  1. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
  2. Ringling College of Art and Design
  3. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
  4. Carnegie Mellon University School of Art
  5. University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts
  6. Sheridan College

What should I consider when choosing an animation school?

When choosing an animation school, you should consider the following factors:

  • The curriculum and courses offered
  • The qualifications and experience of the faculty
  • The facilities and resources available, such as equipment and software
  • The reputation and track record of the school and its graduates
  • The location and accessibility of the school
  • The cost and financial aid options available

Do I need a degree to become an animator?

While a degree in animation or a related field can be beneficial, it is not always necessary to become an animator. Many successful animators have developed their skills through self-study, workshops, and on-the-job training. However, having a degree can help you gain the technical and artistic skills needed for a career in animation, as well as provide networking opportunities and access to industry resources.

What career opportunities are available for animation school graduates?

Graduates of animation schools may pursue careers in a variety of fields, such as:

  • Feature film animation
  • Television animation
  • Video game animation
  • Advertising and marketing
  • Interactive media
  • Education and training

Some of the specific job titles that animation graduates may pursue include:

  • Character animator
  • Story artist
  • Visual effects artist
  • 3D modeler
  • Rigging artist
  • Texture artist
  • Concept artist
  • Animation director