With the growing popularity of animated feature films and television shows, it’s no surprise that there’s a rising interest in California animation schools. And there’s never been a better time to consider relocating to the west coast to study for an exciting career in the entertainment industry. The animation industry has come a long way since an early incarnation of Mickey Mouse showed up in a short cartoon presentation entitled “Steamboat Willie” back in 1928. The fact that animation software and technology are still evolving makes the field even more exciting.

Artists graduating from the California animation schools have several areas in which they may be employed. They may find themselves creating cartoon-style sequences for movies and video games, or they may go on to produce complex moving graphics for websites. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, animators can expect to earn approximately $44,000 annually.

Platt College features campuses in Los Angeles, Newport Beach and Ontario, California. This institution addresses the industry’s growing need for animation professionals trained in a variety of multimedia domains including motion graphics, digital video editing and 3D modeling and animation. Graduates of this school are given opportunities to pursue job referrals generated by the Career Services department, which strives to see that graduates understand the demanding job search process.

Students considering California animation schools will also want to have a look at the Academy of Art University, which is the nation’s oldest and largest private art and design university. A of AU is located in the heart of San Francisco and boasts a fine faculty of working professionals and state-of-the-art facilities. There are programs to suit students who have little or no art or design experience, as well as those who are experienced professionals endeavoring to upgrade their skills. Specific topics offered include Animation & Visual Effect, Fine Art and Motion Picture & Television.

The campus at Brooks College is located at Long Beach, CA. This facility offers an Associate of Science Degree program in animation, with an intense curriculum that prepares students for entry-level positions in the industry. Students learn the process of creating 2D and 3D animations for various media, building on drawing ability, sculpting skills and writing techniques. Brooks is one of the California animation schools emphasizing the development of a professional quality demo reel as well as industry involvement through internships. Graduates of this program will be prepared to compete for positions in animation ranging from storyboard artist to assistant animator.

The Art Institute of California’s campuses are spread out among the interesting centers of Santa Ana, San Diego, San Francisco, San Bernardino and Santa Monica. This school provides training toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Art & Design that specializes in developing game art. The institute also features a program resulting in a Bachelor’s Degree in Media Arts & Animation, which combines the student’s artistic talent with acquired technical know-how to create moving image impressions.

With this varied range of California animation schools currently accepting applications, students have the opportunity to discover the perfect campus location combined with the ideal animation program to suit their academic needs.