Which schools offer the best animation programs?

Several schools around the world are renowned for their animation programs, offering comprehensive training in various aspects of animation, including traditional techniques, digital animation, and character design. Here’s a list of some of the best animation schools:

1. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)

• Location: Valencia, California, USA
• Programs: Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Character Animation and Experimental Animation.
• Highlights: Founded by Walt Disney, CalArts is highly regarded for its animation programs and has produced many successful animators and industry professionals.

2. School of Visual Arts (SVA)

• Location: New York City, New York, USA
• Programs: Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Animation and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Animation.
• Highlights: SVA is known for its strong focus on both traditional and digital animation techniques and provides students with opportunities to showcase their work in the industry.

3. Ringling College of Art and Design

• Location: Sarasota, Florida, USA
• Programs: Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Computer Animation.
• Highlights: Ringling is known for its rigorous curriculum and impressive facilities, consistently ranking among the top schools for animation in the United States.

4. Gobelins, l’école de l’image

• Location: Paris, France
• Programs: Offers a Bachelor’s degree in Animation and various short courses.
• Highlights: Gobelins is famous for its high-quality animation education and has produced numerous award-winning animators and shorts, including several Oscar nominees.

5. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

• Locations: Savannah, Georgia, and Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Lacoste, France; Hong Kong
• Programs: Offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Animation.
• Highlights: SCAD provides extensive resources and industry connections, and its programs are known for blending traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology.

6. University of Southern California (USC)

• Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
• Programs: Offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Animation and Digital Arts and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Animation and Digital Arts.
• Highlights: USC’s School of Cinematic Arts is one of the most prestigious film schools in the world, providing students with access to industry professionals and networking opportunities.

7. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

• Location: Providence, Rhode Island, USA
• Programs: Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Film/Animation/Video.
• Highlights: RISD is known for its strong emphasis on the artistic foundations of animation and offers a well-rounded education in the arts.

8. La Poudrière

• Location: Valence, France
• Programs: Offers a specialized animation program leading to a diploma.
• Highlights: La Poudrière focuses on artistic storytelling in animation, providing a unique and immersive educational experience.

9. National Film and Television School (NFTS)

• Location: Beaconsfield, England
• Programs: Offers a Master’s degree in Animation.
• Highlights: NFTS is renowned for its film and television programs and provides students with hands-on experience in various animation techniques.

10. Vancouver Film School (VFS)

• Location: Vancouver, Canada
• Programs: Offers a one-year diploma program in Animation.
• Highlights: VFS is known for its intensive programs and strong industry connections, preparing students for careers in animation, film, and game design.

These schools offer a range of programs and unique approaches to animation education, making them some of the best options for aspiring animators. When choosing a school, it’s essential to consider factors such as curriculum, faculty, facilities, and industry connections to find the best fit for your goals.