What's Up with Animation in the US?

As a junior looking at colleges, and someone who is deeply interested in animation, I'm wondering about the scene of animation in the US colleges. How's the academic and professional landscape for animation in the US?

In the United States, animation as a field of study is thriving with multiple colleges offering robust programs. Universities like California Institute of the Arts, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Ringling College of Art and Design, to name just a few, offer highly reputed animation programs. These programs often cover a mix of technical skills, such as 2D and 3D modeling, alongside softer skills like storytelling and character development, which are vital in the animation industry.

Another key aspect of the American animation educational landscape is the industry links many of these programs have. Many universities host regular guest lectures, portfolio reviews, and networking events with industry professionals. This can not only offer valuable learning opportunities but also advantageous connections for post-graduation employment.

The professional landscape is quite promising, too. The U.S. is home to some of the world's top animation studios, including Disney, Pixar, and DreamWorks. There are opportunities across a wide array of media, ranging from film and television to video game development and advertising. Of course, the competition is steep, but having a degree in animation can give you a competitive edge.

In addition, the demand for animation and multimedia artists in the U.S. is expected to grow in the coming years, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is driven by increased demand for animation in video games, movies, and television. Most of the opportunities are concentrated in areas with a high presence of media and entertainment companies, like California, New York, and Washington.

So, if you're interested in pursuing animation, the U.S. provides a robust academic environment and a promising professional landscape. However, it's essential to examine the specific advantages and resources each school's animation program offers, and how these align with your personal career goals.