10 Most Affordable Animation Schools in the U.S.

Affordable animation schools delivering high-quality online programs can help busy adult learners obtain degrees and embark on rewarding careers in digital arts, media design, and other exciting industries.

Learn about fully online animation programs]offered at reasonable costs to help you choose one that meets your student budget and academic goals.

Featured Affordable Animation Programs

This list describes affordable online animation programs from accredited higher education institutions. Other schools offer similar programs, but this list is a great place to start your degree research.

1. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University in Phoenix provides an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in digital design through its College of Arts and Media, with an emphasis in animation.

GCU's coursework includes:

• 3D modeling
• 2D animation
• motion graphics
• typography
• motion design

Animation students must have their own subscriptions to Adobe Creative Cloud and complete 120 credits, taking around four years.

This program costs $485 per credit plus applicable fees. Several scholarships and other financial aid options are available to help reduce these costs.

2. Wilmington University

Wilmington University in Delaware offers students the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in animation and 3D through distance education.

The curriculum covers subjects including:

• 3D animation
• 2D digital animation
• 3D modeling techniques
• motion graphics fundamentals
• vector drawing

Students at Wilmington explore animation software such as Maya and other essential technical skills for career success. The cost is $419 per credit hour, and undergraduate credit is available for prior learning.

3. The Los Angeles Film School

The Los Angeles Film School in California delivers a bachelor's degree in animation through its online programs. Graduates of this program have gone on to work at studios like Disney and Pixar.

Students can choose from three concentrations:

• visual effects, which covers storyboarding and all aspects of animation studio production
• character animation, which teaches animation and rigging mechanics
• environment and character design, which covers video game development

Tuition is $4,300 per semester, plus applicable additional fees.

4. Full Sail University

Full Sail University in Florida offers a top-ranking online Bachelor of Science degree in visual arts with a computer animation specialization.

Individuals engage in animation courses, where they learn about computer graphics and compositing fundamentals for embarking on fulfilling career paths.

The tuition cost is $30,500 plus applicable fees. FSU's program also awards students with an associate degree in computer animation upon completion.

5. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design provides a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) where students can choose from 2D or 3D animation specializations.

This online degree teaches animation skills, including:

• texture mapping
• storyboarding
• 3D modeling
• character design
• animation techniques

This animation program prepares graduates for lucrative careers in the animation industry as story artists or 3D modelers. The tuition is $712 per credit and requires 123 credits, with many financial aid options for eligible students.

6. Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University in California offers an online Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in animation and visual effects.

Students can choose from these emphasis areas:

• visual effects
• storyboarding
• 3D animation
• 3D modeling
• 2D and stop motion animation

Courses at Academy of Art University include Cinematics for Animation and VFX, which teaches filmmaking techniques, and Color Fundamentals, which explores color harmony in digital media.

There are three units per class at $1,126 per unit.

7. University of Advancing Technology

University of Advancing Technology in Arizona delivers a Bachelor of Arts degree in game art and animation through its online programs.

This degree path covers topics including:

• animating characters, vehicles, and assets
• creating 2D and 3D character models
• working in game production environments

This affordable animation school utilizes industry-standard software to prepare students for exciting careers as character artists or digital modelers.

Their tuition is a flat rate of $6,950 per nine-credit semester.

8. Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University provides a Bachelor of Science degree in digital technology and design through convenient online learning with a concentration in digital animation.

Coursework covers many topics, such as:

• 3D digital and game design
• 2D animation and graphics
• motion graphics
• digital illustration
• creative writing

Graduates of this program will be prepared for high-paying animation careers in filmmaking and video game development. The program requires 120 total credits at $276 per credit hour.

9. University of Florida

University of Florida has an online Bachelor of Arts degree in digital arts and sciences focusing on production, animation, and game design.

It is an ideal animation program for students interested in pursuing jobs such as:

• cinematographers
• character artists
• technical animators

The online cost per credit for Florida residents is $129.18. For non-residents, the cost is $552.62, plus applicable fees.

10. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University, located in Georgia, is a top-ranking school, per U.S. News and World Report. Students leverage online learning for their Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in digital animation.

Courses include topics such as:

• character development
• motion graphics
• figure drawing
• electronic illustration
• digital animation production

Students must complete 120 credits, which takes around four years. Their online programs cost $240.40 per credit hour.

Best Animation School Career Options

The best animation schools prepare for exciting career options in Los Angeles to New York, with opportunities in the digital arts and many business fields.

An animation career includes jobs such as:

• Graphic Designer
• Multimedia Specialist
• Professional Animator
• Film and Special Effects Artist
• Motion Graphics Design Artist
• Concept Artist
• Game Designer
• Storyboard Artist
• Art Director
• VFX Artist

The credentials for these roles vary; some may require an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) or other master's degrees, and students should research what is needed for their career goals.

Financial Aid for Animation Degree Programs

Financial aid is available to help alleviate the tuition costs for animation programs, and students should explore all accessible avenues.

Examples of financial assistance for animation degrees include:

• scholarships
• grants
• loans
• work-study programs
• military tuition assistance

Prospective animation students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their qualifications.

FAQs About Affordable Animation Degree Programs

Learn more about affordable animation degree programs with answers to some commonly asked questions.

How Much Do the Cheapest Animation Schools Cost?

The cost of affordable animation schools varies depending on the program. Tuition can range from around $200 to over $700 per credit.

Additional factors must be considered, such as the type of enrollment and mandatory student fees. Most bachelor's programs require around 120 credits.

Are Animation Degrees Worth It?

Yes, animation degrees are worth it for students looking to work in animation. The industry continues to show high job growth and demand for skilled professionals, and nearly all animation jobs require a degree.

Getting a degree from an affordable animation school is a valuable educational investment and is ideal for individuals with a passion for art and creativity.

Can You Earn an Animation Degree Online?

Yes, you can earn an animation degree online, and several programs are available from accredited colleges for busy adult learners to select from.

A high school diploma is needed to enroll, and depending on the animation degree, ACT or SAT scores are sometimes required. Students should review all acceptance requirements before applying.

Is an Online Animation Degree More Affordable?

An online animation degree can be more affordable since it does not involve additional costs beyond tuition, such as room and board or meal plan charges.

Many colleges offer lower tuition and fees for distance education, but online learners still receive the same high-quality education as on-campus programs.

Discover Affordable Animation Schools Today

Many affordable animation schools are available nationwide and offer the flexibility of online programs. Aspiring students can reference this list and reach out to their chosen college for more details about tuition and coursework.