Online Animation Degrees: Launch Your Creative Career from Anywhere
The world of animation is bigger—and more digital—than ever before. From video games and films to web content and advertising, skilled animators are in high demand across industries. The best part? You don’t have to move to Hollywood or attend a traditional art school to break into the field. With an online animation degree, you can get professional training, build a portfolio, and start your career—all from the comfort of your home.
Whether you’re a creative high school graduate, a career switcher, or a professional looking to level up, this guide will walk you through the benefits, types, top programs, and career paths for online animation degrees.
Why Choose an Online Animation Degree?
Animation is a field driven by creativity, technology, and collaboration—three things that thrive in online learning environments. Many top design schools and universities now offer fully online animation programs, with flexible schedules and industry-aligned coursework.
Benefits of Earning an Animation Degree Online:
- Flexibility: Study on your own time, around work or family commitments
- Access to Top Programs: No need to relocate or commute
- Lower Costs: Save on housing, transportation, and some tuition fees
- Portfolio-Focused: Many programs help you build a job-ready portfolio
- Software Training: Learn industry-standard tools like Adobe After Effects, Maya, Blender, and Toon Boom Harmony
What You’ll Learn in an Online Animation Program
Online animation degrees combine technical skills, artistic development, and storytelling to prepare you for a variety of roles in digital media and entertainment.
| Course Area | What You’ll Learn |
|---|---|
| 2D and 3D Animation | Frame-by-frame animation, rigging, character movement |
| Digital Drawing & Storyboarding | Visual storytelling, pre-production planning |
| Animation Software & Tools | Hands-on training in Maya, Blender, Adobe Suite, Unity, etc. |
| Motion Graphics | Dynamic visuals for film, advertising, and web |
| Character Design & Development | Anatomy, personality, and style creation |
| Visual Effects (VFX) | Adding digital effects to live or animated content |
| Portfolio & Demo Reel Creation | Build a professional body of work to show employers and clients |
Many programs also include capstone projects or internships to give you real-world experience before graduation.
Types of Online Animation Degrees
Animation degrees come in several levels, depending on your career goals:
| Degree Level | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Entry-level jobs or transferring to a bachelor’s |
| Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BFA) | 4 years | Full-time careers in animation or game design |
| Master’s Degree (MFA) | 1–2 years | Career advancement or specialization |
| Certificates | 6–12 months | Quick skill development or upskilling |
Top Online Animation Degree Programs
Looking for a strong program to begin or continue your animation career? Here are some well-known online animation degrees to explore:
| School | Program Name | Degree Type | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) | BFA in Animation (Online) | Bachelor’s | Industry-leading tools, strong alumni network |
| Full Sail University | BS in Computer Animation (Online) | Bachelor’s | Focus on storytelling, modeling, and motion |
| Southern New Hampshire University | BA in Graphic Design w/ Animation Concentration | Bachelor’s | Affordable and beginner-friendly |
| Academy of Art University | AA, BFA, MFA in Animation (Online) | Associate to Master’s | Flexible levels, deep artistic training |
| Liberty University | BS in Digital Design: Animation | Bachelor’s | Christian worldview integration, affordable |
| Rasmussen University | AA in Animation and Motion Graphics | Associate | Career-focused with online support |
Always verify accreditation and curriculum details directly with the institution before enrolling.
Careers You Can Pursue with an Online Animation Degree
Animation is a gateway to many creative and technical roles across industries—from entertainment to advertising to tech.
Common Career Paths:
- 2D or 3D Animator
- Character Designer
- Storyboard Artist
- Visual Effects (VFX) Artist
- Motion Graphics Designer
- Game Designer/Animator
- Multimedia Artist
- UI/UX Animator
- Animation Director (with experience)
Industries That Hire Animators:
- Film and Television
- Video Game Studios
- Marketing and Advertising Agencies
- E-learning and Education Tech
- App and Web Development
- Freelance and Creative Agencies
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, multimedia artists and animators earn a median salary of over $78,000/year, with faster-than-average job growth, especially in digital content creation.
What to Look for in an Online Animation Program
Choosing the right school can shape your career trajectory. Here’s what to consider:
1. Accreditation
Ensure the school is regionally or nationally accredited—this guarantees quality and recognition by employers.
2. Software and Tool Access
Good programs give you access to tools like:
- Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator
- Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max
- Blender
- Toon Boom Harmony
- Unity or Unreal Engine (for game animation)
3. Portfolio Development
Look for programs that include capstones, project-based assignments, or mentorship—your demo reel is your resume in the animation industry.
4. Career Services
Job placement help, internship opportunities, and alumni connections can be major bonuses.
5. Student Reviews and Job Outcomes
Check online reviews, graduation rates, and real-world job placement info before enrolling.
Tips for Success in Online Animation Studies
- Practice Daily: Animation is a skill you master through consistent practice.
- Build a Strong Portfolio: Start early and treat each class project as portfolio material.
- Join Online Communities: Reddit, Discord, and forums like ArtStation can offer feedback, support, and job leads.
- Watch Tutorials: YouTube and LinkedIn Learning offer tons of free animation tips.
- Take Extra Workshops: Short bootcamps or certifications can boost your skills alongside your degree.
If you’re creative, tech-savvy, and passionate about storytelling through visuals, an online animation degree could be your perfect path forward. It offers flexibility, real-world skill-building, and entry into one of the most dynamic and fast-growing creative industries.