Top Online Animation Degree Programs

Author: Bambi Majumdar / Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson / First covered: December 2021 / Updates: 6

Key Takeaways:

• The #1 college in our ranking of top online bachelor’s in animation is the University of Florida, followed by New Mexico State University.
• Pursuing a degree in animation can open up a variety of exciting career opportunities in fields such as film, television, video games, advertising, and more.
• Potential career paths include animator, storyboard artist, character designer, visual effects artist, and motion graphics designer.

In this ranking, we explore our picks for the top online animation degrees at the master’s and bachelor’s level.

If you want to pursue a career in animation, then an online animation degree is the best way forward. A credential in computer animation is available from many top online schools. These programs can pave the way to successful careers in:

• Gaming
• Movies
• Graphic Design
• Television Careers

Online animation degrees teach students to develop content. They do this by designing and composing art-related multimedia content. Students graduating from online schools can break into the animation industry. They can become talented animators with a degree. This may open them up for success and a higher earning potential. 

Online animation programs teach incoming students manual, computer, and interactive techniques. They provide artistic training for technology-assisted design and illustration, and hand drawing. Students develop perspectives for composition and design and learn visual effects in:

• Storytelling
• Gaming
• The web and other platforms

After completion, graduates go on to work as:

• Animators
• Graphic Designers
• Computer Programmers

Several accredited colleges and universities offer online animation degree programs. These programs include those at both bachelor’s and master’s levels. These computer animation programs give students the skills to enter many career areas. Students can choose specific specializations to tailor their professional portfolios and degrees. Animation degrees offer many different job prospects with plenty of growth opportunities. Graduates can work in varied fields and focus on areas such as:

• 3D modeling
• Web design
• Graphic Imaging

These rankings include some of the best schools offering animation degrees online. These include high-ranked and popular degrees that are offered both online and on-campus. Some schools offer cheap online animation degrees. This makes these programs accessible to all students. The leading online animation programs provide a field study or internship. These components help students gain real-world experience. We have looked at these offerings regarding their:

• Curriculum
• Accreditations
• Program Fees
• Faculty
• Job Prospects

Schools have been ranked based on their affordability.

You can learn more about our undergraduate ranking methodology here and graduate methodology here. These are the methodologies we use for all school rankings on the site. All tuition figures were taken from NCES College Navigator.

Note: This ranking/article was originally published in December 2021 and was last updated in March 2023. The 2023 updates may affect the ranking order, but the list has not been re-ordered.

Online Master’s Degrees in Animation

 #1 Lynn University  

Boca Raton, FL

Online MS-Digital Media

Website
Points: 15
Tuition: $13,500

Lynn University hosts an online MS in Communication specializing in digital media. The program covers all aspects of digital media. This includes:

The Aesthetics of Digital Photography

• Design Theories
• Animation
• Image-Making
• Motion Graphics

Coursework for this animation degree includes:

• Aesthetics of Digital Photography
• Drawing and Design
• Digital Storytelling
• Graphic Design Studio
• Animation and Motion Graphics

Students enrolled learn to use techniques in:

• Video production
• Social Media Journalism
• Digital Storytelling

They also become familiar with the latest design software.  The program helps them enter or enhance their digital media careers by preparing them for high-level media jobs. The university is institutionally accredited to offer animation degrees online.

Fast facts:

• 37 credits
• Offered through: College of Communication and Design
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) 

Pro:

• Admissions staff is helpful and accessible

Con:

• Issues with the financial aid process have been reported

#2 Savannah College of Art and Design

Savannah, GA

Online MA in Animation

Website
Points: 14
Tuition: $40,050

Savannah College of Art and Design is home to an online Master of Arts in Animation. Animation Career Review has named the program a top animation program in the U.S. for years. Students develop their signature style in:

• 2D, 3D, and stop-motion animation
• Rigging
• Lighting
• Digital Modeling
• Visual Development

Coursework for these online programs includes:

• Animation Aesthetics and Practice
• Computer-generated Modeling and Design
• 3D Cartoon Character Animation
• Character Look Development
• Environment Look Development

Students may learn to create fantastical realms and new worlds with animation with characters that bring joy to the audience. 

Fast facts:

• 45 credit hours
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) 

Pros:

• They have placement and employment services
• Academic and career counseling

Cons:

• Cost
• Average student debt upon graduation is significantly higher than national average

#3 Academy of Art

San Francisco, CA

Online MFA-Animation & Visual Effects

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Points: 13
Tuition per unit: $29,232

The Academy of Art boasts an online Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree in Animation & Visual Effects. Students will develop skills in many areas of expertise in this field. These online programs cover everything from ideation to post-production. Coursework for this animation degree includes:

• Gesture & Quick Sketch for Animators
• 3D Modeling & Animation
• MS: Storyboarding for Thesis
• Acting for Animators
• Visual Effects for Animation

The program ensures that graduates are ready for the intense professional culture that awaits them. This is accomplished by focusing on:

• Collaboration
• Communication
• Time management skills

These skills are necessary for a successful career. A professional portfolio may be required before graduation.

Fast facts:

• 63 units
• Offered through: School of Animation & Visual Effects
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: CIDA; NASAD; WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Pros:

• 100% acceptance rate
• Challenging curriculum

Cons:

• Very low graduation rate
• Lack of student academic support has been reported

Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Animation

 #1 University of Florida

Gainesville, Florida

Online BA in Digital Arts and Sciences

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Points: 16
Tuition per year: $3,876

UF boasts an online BA in Digital Arts and Sciences. The program features a heavy focus on animation. The interdisciplinary online bachelor’s in animation program crosses traditional college boundaries. That is, it blends topics in communications, arts, and engineering. Students develop an understanding of contemporary issues in various subfields. These include critical thinking, social and interactive media, and creative design solutions. Coursework for this computer animation degree includes:

• 2D Digital Animation Techniques
• 3D Digital Animation Techniques
• DAS Design and Production Studio 
• Game Content Production
• Game Systems Development 

Graduates gain experience working in collaborative teams on media projects. They become animation, visual development, digital storytelling, and game design experts.

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: College of the Arts
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Pros:

• Great networking opportunities
• Mentorship program available

Cons:

• Large class sizes
• Limited faculty interaction

#1 University of Florida

Gainesville, Florida

Online BA in Digital Arts and Sciences

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Points: 16
Tuition per year: $3,876

UF boasts an online BA in Digital Arts and Sciences. The program features a heavy focus on animation. The interdisciplinary online bachelor’s in animation program crosses traditional college boundaries. That is, it blends topics in communications, arts, and engineering. Students develop an understanding of contemporary issues in various subfields. These include critical thinking, social and interactive media, and creative design solutions. Coursework for this computer animation degree includes:

• 2D Digital Animation Techniques
• 3D Digital Animation Techniques
• DAS Design and Production Studio 
• Game Content Production
• Game Systems Development 

Graduates gain experience working in collaborative teams on media projects. They become animation, visual development, digital storytelling, and game design experts.

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: College of the Arts
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Pros:

• Great networking opportunities
• Mentorship program available

Cons:

• Limited faculty interaction
• Large class sizes

#2 New Mexico State University

Las Cruces, NM

Online BFA in Animation

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Points: 15
Tuition: $7,627

New Mexico State University hosts an online Bachelor of Creative Media in Animation and VFX. The program emphasizes two pathways for students to tailor their degrees. This can help to suit their career goals and interests better. These pathways for the degree in animation are:

• Pathway: 2D Production Studio
• Pathway: 3D & VFX Production Studio

Students enrolled in the online bachelor’s in animation program choose a particular pathway. This choice will determine the kind of senior project they wish to produce. Students must complete all university degree requirements. This includes the General Education requirements and the animation curriculum. The latter must be completed with a grade of C- or higher. Once completed, this program prepares students for a successful career in the computer animation field.

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: College of Arts and Sciences
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Pros:

• A diverse university community
• Affordable tuition

Cons:

• Limited career opportunities
• Limited course offerings

#3 Southern New Hampshire University  

Manchester, NH

Online BA in Graphic Design and Media Arts 

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Points: 14
Tuition per credit: $320

Southern New Hampshire University boasts an online Bachelor of Arts degree in animation. The program features a concentration in 3D Modeling and Animation. Students in the program learn from an award-winning creative faculty. They teach them to blend form and function. Students also develop cutting-edge skills to create visual content for:

• Video Games
• Animated Web Content
• Movies

Coursework for the online bachelor’s in animation includes:

• Intro to Digital Sculpting
• 3-D Modeling and Animation
• Interactive Animation
• Designing Wireframe 3D Models
• Animating Character Functions

Graduates with a degree in animation are prepared to work and excel in the multidimensional design world. They can explore the stages of game models, including observational and conceptual drawing. 

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: College of Communication and Design
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Pros:

• Advisors are accessible
• Wide range of academic programs

Cons:

• Issues with the financial aid department have been reported
• 8-week terms leave less time to process information

#4 National University

La Jolla, CA

Online BA in Digital Media Design. 

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Points: 13
Tuition: $13,320

National University is home to an online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Design. This online bachelor’s in animation provides students with hands-on experience. This includes exposure to the latest tools and technologies in the media arts workspace. They explore the latest methodologies of visual communication for various fields. These include business, education, marketing, and entertainment.

• Create active and interactive content with animation, graphics, 
• Sound and video with the help of media authoring software.
• Apply the principles of graphic and information design in various digital media projects.

Students will gain knowledge and experience in digital media design. This prepares them for a transmedia future and success. 

Fast facts:

• 180 quarter units 
• Offered through: College of Professional Studies 
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Pros:

• Flexibility of program
• Affordability

Cons:

• Graduation rate is well below national average
• Poor administrative communication has been reported

#5 Wilmington University

New Castle, DE

Online BS in Animation and 3D

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Points: 12
Tuition: $12,030

Wilmington University boasts an online Bachelor of Science in Animation and 3D. The computer animation degree program focuses on critical skill sets. These include hand-drawn animation art, digital 2D and 3D animation, and 3D sculpting. Courses required for the online bachelor’s in animation include:

• Drawing for Animation
• 2D Animation
• History of Animation
• Introduction to 3D
• 3D Texture, Rendering, and Lighting Techniques

Students in this online bachelor’s program gain compositing, graphic design, and sound skills. They learn about:

• Drawing
• Character Creation
• Digital Imaging
• Computer Animation
• Rigging
• Particles
• Morphing
• Texturing
• Lighting

Students will learn from faculty with extensive field experience. They also practice collaboration and explore real-world production concepts. They do this through a professional animation workflow. 

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: College of Communication and Design
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Pros:

• Program is 100% online
• Affordable tuition

Cons:

• Freshman retention rate is below national average
• Graduation rate is lower than national average

#6 Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

Online MS-Digital Media

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Points: 12
Tuition: $22,511

Liberty University is home to an online Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design. This online bachelor’s in animation focuses heavily on the different forms of animation. It also provides the hands-on style of learning students need to succeed. Coursework includes: 

• Introduction to 2D Design
• Introduction to 3D 
• Introduction to Graphic Design
• Introduction to 3D Graphics 
• Interactive Design

Liberty University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design degree prepares students for various careers. They also develop the right skills and create a portfolio of advanced typography, vector illustration, and 21st century-style artwork. Graduates from bachelor’s in animation degree programs are offered jobs in various agencies and businesses.

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: School of Communication and the Arts
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) 

Pros:

• Focus on student success
• Affordable tuition

Cons:

• Some students may find the conservative atmosphere is not for them
• Lack of diversity

#7 Full Sail University 

Winter Park, FL

Online BS in Computer Animation 

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Points: 11
Tuition per credit: $529

Full Sail University hosts an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Animation. Students are taught:

• Storyboarding
• Visual Development
• Sketching and Modeling
• Character Animation
• Final Compositing

Coursework for the online bachelor’s in animation includes:

• Creative Presentation
• Psychology of Play
• Technology in the Entertainment and Media Industries
• 3-D Foundations
• Model Creation

Students learn about various modeling tools and the results of interactions between them. They also learn the foundations of character rigging to make them more realistic. Animation Career Review-2021 has ranked the program number one on the Top 10 Animation Bachelor’s Programs in the U.S.

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: School of Art and Design
• Format: Online/On-site
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges

Pros:

• Emphasis on real-world experience
• Networking opportunities

Cons:

• Intensive workload
• Some courses have limited flexibility

#8 George Mason University   

Fairfax, VA 

Online BFA in Computer Game Design

Website
Points: 10
Tuition per credit: $577.25

George Mason University boasts an online Bachelor of Arts in Art and Visual Technology. This program provides students with the technical skills prerequisite to the field of animation. It also helps them focus on the artistic components of computer game design and online game art. Coursework for the online bachelor’s in animation degree includes:

• Two-Dimensional Design and Color (Mason Core) 
• Computer Animation for Games
• GAME 398: Advanced Game Design Animation
• History of Computer Game Design
• Portfolio Preparation

Students in the animation program must complete an internship. This provides practical experience to enhance their employability skills. They study both the sciences and the arts in a new project-based teaching environment. The curriculum includes:

• Computer Science courses
• Art and Visual Technology
• Computer Game Design 

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Offered through: College of Adult Degree Completion Programs
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: NASAD; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Pros:

• Excellent freshmen retention rate
• Graduation rate is higher than national average

Cons:

• More focus on the big picture rather than learning skills
• Some faculty indifference has been reported

#9 Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design   

Denver, CO

Online BFA in Animation 

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Points: 9
Tuition: $22,607

The Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design hosts an online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation program. Students can choose an emphasis in either 2D Animation or 3D Animation. This online bachelor’s in animation program helps them develop a unique and artistic voice. Coursework for the bachelor’s degree in animation includes:

• Modeling
• 2D and 3D Drawing
• Character Design
• Line of Action
• Storyboarding
• Stop Motion

Students are taught the essential computer animation techniques and tools. They also learn necessary communication and collaboration skills. They can work with talented animators from all walks of life. Students will explore creative thinking. This will help them turn original ideas into extraordinary creations. 

Fast facts:

• 123 credits
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Pros:

• Small class sizes
• Emphasis on hands-on experience

Cons:

• Limited resources and degree options
• Limited diversity

#10 Los Angeles Film School 

Los Angeles, CA

Online BS in Animation

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Points: 9
Tuition: $80,000

The Los Angeles Film School offers an online Bachelor of Science Degree in Animation. Students get to explore the 12 principles of animation used by legendary studios. They are then taught to apply that knowledge to their creations. Students enrolled in this online bachelor’s in animation program can choose from three concentrations suited to their specific interests. They are built on the real-world animation pipeline and include:

• Visual Effects
• Environment & Character Design
• Character Animation

The experiential online learning environment shows students how professional animators create realistic settings and characters in movies, video games, and other interactive media. 

Fast facts:

• 120 credits
• Format: Online/Onsite
• Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)

Pros:

• Lots of online student interaction
• Helpful admissions department

Cons:

• Tuition cost
• Issues with financial aid process has been reported

More About Top Online Computer Animation Program Options

What is an online degree in animation?

An online bachelor’s in animation trains students to have successful careers in fields such as:

• graphic design
• web design
• computer programming
• game design and development
• illustration

Students who are enrolled in online animation degree programs learn artistic techniques using various manual, computer, and interactive methods. These computer animation programs are especially attractive to specific students and professionals. This includes those who are passionate about and talented in hand drawing along with technology-assisted design and illustration. Animation programs train students in visual effects, composition, and design. As a result, they become experts in storytelling, gaming, and web design.  

Most of these animation degree programs include general education courses. These must be completed with the required computer animation courses in video and audio technology areas. The curricula cover fundamental topics. Examples include:

• 2D and 3D Computer-Based Animation
• Digital Art
• Motion Graphics

Several colleges and universities now offer animation degree programs online. These online degrees include online associates, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Some schools also offer degree completion programs. These programs allow students to develop and hone their creative skills. Online computer animation program graduates set themselves apart from competitors. They learn to develop content by designing and composing art-related multimedia content.

What will you study in an animation program?

Animation degrees offer a lot of different job prospects with growth opportunities. These animation programs aim to help students build on technical skills. These include:

• 2D Animation Basics
• Digital Effects and Animation
• Flash Animation
• Image Editing Techniques 

 

A distance education bachelor’s in animation degree covers fundamental topics. These include:

• Digital Art
• 2D and 3D Computer-Based Animation
• Motion Graphics.
• Digital Characters and Color Theory
• Digital Design
• Scriptwriting
• Storyboarding

Students enrolled in these online degrees have to complete general education courses. There are also required computer animation courses in video and audio technology

Animation programs help students learn the skills needed to enter many career areas. They learn from industry professionals and study an array of topics. Some of these include:

• Basic Animation Principles
• Character and Background Design
• Storyboarding and Production Pipeline
• Modeling

Students can choose specific specializations to tailor their degrees toward future careers. Graduates with these online degrees can work in varied fields and focus on areas such as:

• 3D Modeling
• Web Design
• Graphic Imaging

Students pursuing animation credentials typically take a lot of different courses in fundamentals. This helps them build their animation, graphic, and visual effects skills. Different schools have different courses. Still, the best animation schools include courses like:

• 3D Modeling and Animation: In this course, students learn the ins and outs of a computer graphics method. They then use the method to create 3D digital images of objects and surfaces.
• Body Mechanics and Locomotion: Students learn about body mechanics in this course. They understand the principles of body motion to produce more realistic animations.
• Introduction to Digital Imaging: Students learn the basics of programs like Adobe Photoshop. They become experts by properly using tools like filters, special effects, and various channels. They assess images and figure out the corrections or changes to be implemented.
• Audio and Editing Techniques: Students learn to incorporate sound to make the most out of their animations. They learn the fundamentals of audio and editing skills.
• Background Design and Layout: Students learn how to create background layouts for animations.
• Character Rigging: Students learn how to use character rigging techniques to operate a 3D model. Also known as skeletal animation, it is a technique performed by using software to build the bone structure of an animation. 
• 3D Computer Lighting: Students learn the various tools and strategies to simulate light in a 3D environment.
• Web Design: Students learn the principles of proper website design and website architecture.
• Introduction to Animation Concepts: Students learn about facial impressions with 2D and 3D models.
• Programming Languages: In this course, students learn the common programming languages for games like C++, CSS3, and Java.

What are the admission requirements for animation programs?

Students applying for animation programs must meet specific basic admission requirements. These will vary by college or university, so it’s best to speak to the school’s own admissions counselor. Typically, applicants need to provide the following:

• Completed application forms
• High school diploma or GED
• High school transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Portfolio or artwork or animation
• Personal statement that covers:
  • scholastic interests
  • personal accomplishments
  • career objectives

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in animation programs?

Each animation school has its own enrollment counselor and admissions guidelines. Generally speaking, students interested in online animation programs must take the general education courses offered by their chosen schools or universities. They must submit certificates for their high school diploma or GED equivalent. Some colleges mandate courses in computer technology and mathematics. Students enrolled in animation degree programs should have access to personal computers and USB drives. That way, they can work online and save projects, portfolio content, and other related coursework. Students of computer animation programs also need to be familiar with industry software. Examples include Adobe In-Design, Adobe Photoshop, and other software, depending on the school. 

What are the concentration options in animation degree online programs?

Many accredited universities offer animation credentials online. This includes both online bachelor’s degrees in animation and online master’s degrees in animation. These online degree programs provide specialization or concentration options for students. Here’s a closer look at these degree specializations. All these fields lead to varied job prospects and plenty of growth opportunities. 

Computer Animation: Students learn animation skills to enter different industry sectors. They focus on courses like web design, 3D modeling, and graphic imaging. Choosing an online animation degree that offers a field study, experiential project work, or internship component is essential. This is so that students can gain real-world experience. These will help them get into animator, computer programmer, or graphic designer jobs right after graduation. 

Game Design: In this concentration, students also take 3D design and modeling courses which help them design video games. They learn how to create animated 3D designs. These will help them get into jobs right after graduation. Possible job titles include art director, forensic animator, mathematical modeler, and advertising artist. 

3D Modeling and Animation: Students learn cutting-edge skills that are in high demand to create visual content for video games, movies, animated web content, and other media. They focus on a 3D sculpting workflow that includes foundations in color theory and typography, rendering photorealistic effects, designing wireframe 3D models, and animating character functions. They graduate with skills that enhance their skill and marketability. After graduation, they get into game arts, interior design, digital animation, and web development jobs. 

Web Design: This concentration is tailored for students who are looking to combine graphic design and digital media. This specialized graphic design program is equal parts theory and practice. It stresses critical thinking skills and hands-on technical skills to complement design skills. Students can get into varied careers in fields. Examples include:

The coursework combines a graphic design course of study with web design-specific courses. Students become proficient in digital publications, interactive animation, video, and other rich media. They learn how to conduct usability testing on many platforms and interfaces. They also build the skills to develop their work using Adobe Creative Cloud. Students can get into varied careers in different fields. Examples include: 

• Advertising and Marketing
• Public Relations
• Digital Media Outlets
• Specialized Design Services
• E-commerce

What are the prospects for animation programs?

Jobs in the digital and computer animation industry are growing rapidly. Thus, animation programs are growing in popularity as well. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 5% growth rate for animation jobs, which is on par with the overall job growth rate. The median pay is $78,790 per year or $37.88 per hour. Some professionals in the field, like art directors, make significantly more. The BLS reports an average wage of just over six figures for art directors in 2021. Steady job growth and a higher-than-average median wage have created a robust job market.

Most companies prefer a bachelor’s degree in animation, but associate degree students can also get into entry-level jobs. To really grow in the field, they may want to consider a master’s in animation degree. With an online degree in animation, graduates can take on many roles. Examples include art directors, illustrators, graphic designers, web designers, and software engineers.

How much does an animation degree online cost?

Different schools have different tuition rates. Public universities tend to be on the more affordable side. If you are looking for a cheap animation degree online, consider these schools and programs from community colleges. We have also listed the schools that offer cheap animation credentials online above. The tuition per credit hour can range from $1000 to $120. 

Are remote animation programs accredited?

Yes, most animation programs online, including online master’s and online bachelor’s in animation, are accredited. This includes those offered by the best animation schools. Choosing an accredited program is important because it gives the degree more weight. It can be national or regional accreditation from a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation means the school follows the rigorous standards set by these bodies. This, in turn, means that the program quality is high and students are learning from the best. Students who aspire to advanced animation degrees will find it easier to get into those programs with an undergraduate degree from an accredited school. Students looking for a cheap online degree will find that the best animation schools are not only accredited but also quite affordable. 

How long does it take to get an animation degree via distance learning?

Most online bachelor’s in animation mandate that students complete 120 credit hours of study. This may take four years to complete. Most online degrees in animation at the graduate level take about 60 credit hours of study, which may take two years to complete. These are the general rules, but the best animation schools offer lots of flexibility for students. For example, students may choose an accelerated format to complete their degrees sooner than later. Students who need more time to complete their online degrees can stretch their degrees to two or three more years. This may require working with their own enrollment counselor.

What jobs do animation programs lead to?

Students who have completed an online bachelor’s in animation can get jobs in various industries. They can enter fields like graphic design, animation, video game development, digital design studios, and computer-based illustrations. Jobs include: 

• Digital Illustrators
• Multimedia Artist 
• Multimedia Animators
• Art Director
• Digital Designer
• Producer or Director
• Special Effects Artist in Advertising
• Film and Video Editor
• Cartoonist
• Sound Engineering Technician
• Graphic Artist
• Video Game Designer
• Storyboard Artist
• Forensic Animator

Is An Animation Program Worth it?

As stated above, the BLS predicts robust growth for animators, making an online animation degree program worth it for students. 

How do you choose the best animation schools?

• Coursework: Students should look at the coursework offered by the online animation degrees. This ensures that it is a good blend of practical and theoretical approaches. This would give them a solid foundational knowledge of the field and hands-on experience in projects that will prepare them for successful careers. The best online animation schools offer an experiential learning opportunity.
• Cost: The cost of the online degree is an important consideration. Students should do comparative research on what different schools are offering. Some schools are more expensive but highly regarded in the industry for their animation degrees. Some employers look for students who have graduated from these schools. That does not mean that a cheap animation degree online is not recognized. Some of the most popular and well-regarded online animation degrees are pretty affordable. Many are offered by accredited and recognized universities.
• Accreditation: It is crucial to choose an accredited online animation degree. This shows credibility and high-quality education. The best online animation schools listed above are all accredited. Some even have programmatic accreditation.

Related Resources:

• Bachelor’s in Film Studies: Top 30 Values
• Top 30 Best Graphic Design Degree Programs
• Top 10 Associate’s in Graphic Design Online
• Ten Animation Techniques
• Is An Animation Degree Worth It?
• Best Online Photography Degrees
• Affordable Online Web Design Programs
• Art, Design, and Performance Degrees

Sources:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• U.S. News & World Report