Read as much as you possibly can before applying or making a decision. Websites such as ConceptArt.org and CGTalk have dozens of forums discussing the pros and cons of different university and continuing education programs. Here’s a look at the schools that dominate 3D computer animation in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and online. The school is smack dab in the middle of one of the best places in the world for someone interested in advertising and commercial design. If those are your professional leanings, SVA is likely a better place to be than a school like CalArts or Ringling, which lean more toward the film industry. The school’s strength has always been their traditional 2D animation program. However, it has made huge inroads in the CG era. The places a strong emphasis on turning out well-rounded artists with valuable skills beyond their immediate discipline. Pixar emphasizes storytelling, and Ringling’s goal, first and foremost, is to create good storytellers. The culminating experience in their computer animation program is an entire year devoted to the production of an animated short. Ringling is truly one of the best places in the world for a young animator to become acquainted with narrative filmmaking. Animation Mentor’s focus has proven wildly successful, and in just a few short years, the school has built a reputation as one of the best places in the world to learn 3D character animation. The program is incredibly rigorous, but if you give it your undivided attention, you’ll come out with an enviable portfolio, a well-rounded skill set, and access to some of the best industry connections available to recent graduates. Supinfocom and Gobelins: Unless you’re French, you’re probably not considering either of these, but they both need to be mentioned. Along with Ringling, these are some of the best places in the world to get experience working on a team-based 3D animated short film production. Student works from Supinfocom and Gobelins are a mainstay at animation festivals.
