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Chiamaka Oscar
- October 31, 2024
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Studying animation on campus can be costly and time-consuming for many students. To address this, several top schools now offer online animation programs that combine quality instruction with flexibility and affordable tuition. This article presents the best animation schools online with affordable tuition, providing an overview of their offerings and what makes online animation education so appealing.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for animators and media artists is projected to grow by 8% over the next five years, keeping pace with the average job growth rate. The annual median salary for these professionals hovers around $72,000, making animation a viable and rewarding career path.
Here’s a complete guide to choosing the right online animation school, including reasons to study online, program expectations, costs, and job prospects.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Online Animation Schools?
- What to Expect in an Online Animation Program
- Requirements for an Online Animation Program
- Cost of Studying Animation Online
- Duration of Online Animation Programs
- Top Online Animation Programs
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
- Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Design
- Master of Fine Arts in Animation and Visual Effects
- Best Online Animation Schools with Affordable Tuition
- Academy of Art University
- Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Full Sail University
- National University
- Rasmussen College
- Career Opportunities with an Online Animation Degree
- FAQs on Best Animation Schools Online
- References
Why Choose Online Animation Schools?
Online animation programs provide flexible and immersive learning experiences. Courses cover crucial areas like web design, 3D modeling, digital art, and motion graphics. Additionally, online animation students gain expertise in digital effects, image editing, and storytelling.
Graduates can pursue careers as game developers, graphic designers, illustrators, and web designers, with opportunities across industries, including television, film, and freelance work. Online programs often feature interactive tools, including video lectures, readings, assignments, and exams, helping build a strong virtual community.
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What to Expect in an Online Animation Program
An online animation curriculum typically includes topics like digital art, 2D and 3D computer animation, and motion graphics. Core courses cover animation basics, storyboarding, color theory, scriptwriting, and advanced 3D modeling, preparing students with a well-rounded skill set for the animation industry.
Requirements for an Online Animation Program
To qualify, students generally need a high school diploma or GED and familiarity with basic computer applications. Some programs may require a portfolio for admission, especially for advanced degrees. Essential software knowledge includes Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and other industry-standard tools.
Cost of Studying Animation Online
Online animation tuition varies by school. For instance, Full Sail University’s online bachelor’s degree in computer animation averages around $7,125 per semester, or $746 per credit hour. Online study helps students save on costs associated with housing, transport, and other campus-related expenses, allowing them to study while managing work or personal obligations.
Duration of Online Animation Programs
An online Bachelor’s degree in animation typically requires 180 credits, equivalent to four years. However, program length can vary based on synchronous/asynchronous formats, course load, and in-person requirements.
Top Online Animation Programs
1. Online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
- A 4-year degree that focuses on animation history, storyboarding, and modeling. Students build a portfolio that showcases their animation, storytelling, and design skills.
2. Online Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Design
- A program focusing on media art with coursework in 2D/3D modeling and texture mapping. Students develop portfolios geared toward game-related animation.
3. Online Master of Fine Arts in Animation and Visual Effects
- A 2-year program advancing creative and professional studio skills, focusing on 3D animation and preproduction techniques.
Best Animation Schools Online with Affordable Tuition
1. Academy of Art University
- The Academy offers accredited online programs in Animation and Visual Effects. Students gain access to interactive tools and receive feedback via a custom Learning Management System (LMS).
- Tuition: $29,301/year
2. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
- Offering a bachelor’s program in Animation, RMCAD requires students to have a Wacom Tablet and software like Toon Boom Storyboard Pro. Courses emphasize generating original content.
- Tuition: $544/credit hour
3. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
- SNHU’s online BA in Graphic Design and Media Arts includes a concentration in 3D Modeling and Animation. The program covers game model stages and interactive design.
- Tuition: $320/credit (120 credits total)
4. Full Sail University
- Full Sail’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Animation covers storyboarding, modeling, and character animation in a 29-month format. Students gain experience with professional studio techniques.
- Tuition: $746/credit hour
5. National University
- National University’s BA in Digital Media Design provides practical experience in visual communication, game design, and digital effects. The flexible class format enhances skill acquisition for various media jobs.
- Tuition: Affordable, based on course load
6. Rasmussen College
- Rasmussen offers a Bachelor’s and Associate’s degree in Graphic Design with an Animation focus. The Flex Choice pathway allows cost-effective credit acquisition.
- Tuition: $23,525 total for Bachelor’s degree
Career Opportunities with an Online Animation Degree
Graduates with an online animation degree can pursue roles in video game development, graphic design, digital media production, and more. This degree opens doors to careers in animation studios, marketing firms, and creative agencies.
FAQs on Best Animation Schools Online
How long is an online animation degree program?
- Typically, a bachelor’s degree takes four years, while master’s programs are around two years.
Are online animation degrees respected by employers?
- Yes, accredited online animation degrees are widely respected and often equivalent to on-campus programs.
What is the average cost of an online animation degree?
- Costs vary, but they are often lower than on-campus degrees due to savings on housing and other fees.
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Conclusion
Choosing the right online animation school can set you up for a successful career in a growing industry. Whether you’re aiming for game development, graphic design, or animation in media, these programs offer the skills you need. Explore your options and consider factors like tuition, accreditation, and program flexibility to make the best choice for your goals.
