We have compiled a list of schools in California that offer animation diplomas, certificates and degrees. A career in animation requires artistic talent as well as a familiarity with computers and computer graphic programs used by animation professionals. For more information about a career in animation, please scroll down to the bottom of the page.
Academy of Art College
Locations: San Francisco, CAThe Art Institute of California
Locations: Los Angeles (Hollywood), CA / San Bernardino (Inland Empire), CA / San Diego, CA / San Francisco, CA / Santa Ana (Orange County), CA / Santa Monica (Los Angeles), CA / Sunnyvale, CA- Game Art & Design (Bachelor)
- Media Arts & Animation (Bachelor)
Digital Arts and Technology Training
Locations: Online- 3D Advanced: Character Animation (Diploma)
- 3D Animation (Diploma)
Ex'pression College for Digital Arts
Locations: Emeryville, CA- Animation and Visual Effects (Bachelor)
Full Sail University
Locations: Online- Computer Animation (Bachelor)
Kaplan University Online
Locations: Online- Technology and Design - Multimedia & Animation (Bachelor)
Laurus College
Locations: Atascadero, CA / Oxnard, CA / San Luis Obispo, CA / Santa Maria, CA- 3D Animation (Certificate)
Mt. San Antonio College
Locations: Walnut, CAOhlone College
Locations: Fremont, CA / Newark, CAPlatt College San Diego
Locations: San Diego, CAPost University Online
Locations: Online- Game Design and Animation (Certificate)
Reedley College
Locations: Reedley, CAStevens-Henager College
Locations: Online- Graphic Arts (Associate)
West Valley College
Locations: Saratoga, CAWestwood College
Locations: Anaheim, CA / Inland Empire (Upland), CA / Los Angeles, CA / Torrance (South Bay), CA- Graphic Design: Major in Animation (Bachelor)
Animation Career Information
Animators have several options when choosing a job. For example, animators might create cartoons for movies and video games or might create complex moving graphics for websites. Animators, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, can expect to earn approximately $44,000 annually.
Have we forgotten a California animation school?
If you know of a California animation school that we don’t have listed here, please let us know by contacting us.
