Searching for computer animation schools in Iowa? This article lists the top programs, covering courses, costs, and entry requirements to help you start your animation career.
- Iowa State University offers comprehensive animation programs emphasizing both technical skills and creative storytelling, preparing students for diverse careers in the animation industry.
- Des Moines Area Community College’s Animation and Rich Media program equips students with practical training in multimedia design, providing a solid foundation for entry-level positions in the animation field.
- The University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa focus on hands-on experience and interdisciplinary studies, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in cinematic and digital media.
Iowa State University Animation Programs
Iowa State University excels in animation education, offering comprehensive courses in digital animation, game development, and interactive media. These programs encompass a wide range of skills needed in the animation industry, such as film fundamentals, storytelling, 3D animation, production, modeling, texturing, rendering, lighting, motion graphics, and both technical and character animation.
Students at Iowa State University engage with a diverse and robust curriculum, preparing them for various careers in the animation industry. The faculty, composed of experienced professionals, provide high-quality education and essential hands-on learning experiences.
Iowa State University’s animation programs emphasize both the technical aspects and the creativity and storytelling required to create compelling animations. This balanced focus on artistic and technical skills ensures students are well-equipped to excel in the competitive animation industry.
Course Duration & Fees
Iowa State University offers animation courses of varying durations and fees to suit different interests and career paths. For instance, the Adobe Animate CC training course lasts 3 months, enabling students to quickly develop their animation skills, while the more intensive game development course spans 6 weeks with 24 hours of coursework covering both practical and theoretical aspects.
Prospective students need to submit a portfolio of their original artwork during the admission process, ensuring they possess the foundational skills necessary for success in these rigorous programs.
Eligibility & Requirements
Admission to Iowa State University’s animation programs is competitive, emphasizing a solid background in fine arts and design. High school prerequisites include four years of English, three years of mathematics, and three years of science. Students must also complete a separate application to enter the professional programs after finishing the Core Design Program.
Transfer students can apply directly to specific programs in art and design, community and regional planning, and interdisciplinary design. Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) may be required for undergraduates, and international students must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
A portfolio showcasing previous work is also a crucial part of the application process.
Student Reviews
Students and graduates of Iowa State University’s animation programs consistently praise the comprehensive education and hands-on experiences. These programs equip students with the skills needed for various career paths in the animation and digital media industries, preparing them for the competitive job market.
Graduates often find themselves working in diverse fields such as independent films, advertising, public relations, non-profit work, and even Hollywood. Products created by students have been successfully sold on platforms like iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, and Hulu, showcasing the high level of talent and creativity nurtured at Iowa State University.
DMACC Animation and Rich Media Program
Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) offers a robust Animation and Rich Media program, emphasizing hands-on training to prepare students for the animation industry. Students gain practical experience through final production projects, essential for creating a compelling demo reel and securing entry-level positions.
DMACC’s comprehensive training develops a strong foundation in animation, multimedia design, and interactive media, giving students a competitive edge in the industry.
AAS in Animation and Rich Media
DMACC’s Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Animation and Rich Media requires 71 credits. The curriculum covers illustration, storyboarding, scriptwriting, and 3D software. Tuition is approximately $193 per credit, totaling around $13,703 for the degree.
Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates artistic and technical training, preparing them for various roles in the animation industry. The program’s emphasis on practical skills ensures graduates are ready to tackle real-world challenges in digital animation and multimedia design.
Animation and Rich Media Diploma
DMACC’s Animation and Rich Media Diploma offers specialized skills in a shorter time frame. The program includes training in illustration, storyboarding, scriptwriting, and the use of audio, video, and 3D software. Students develop competencies in video camera operation, still camera usage, editing, special effects, and audio production.
The diploma program costs between $9,108 and $9,808, making it a cost-effective option. Financial aid is available to cover expenses, including necessary equipment like a computer.
The diploma can be combined with other programs like the Visual Communications Diploma or Graphic Design degree, offering a flexible pathway for students.
Certificates in Animation & Rich Media
DMACC offers several certificate programs in Animation & Rich Media, each focusing on different aspects of animation and multimedia design. The Introduction to Animation & Rich Media Certificate requires 9 credits and emphasizes both creative and technical skills. The Illustration for Animation Certificate focuses on creating digital artwork and preparing assets for animation.
The Introduction to 3D Animation Certificate covers skills such as modeling, texturing, rigging, animating, lighting, and rendering. These programs provide a solid foundation in animation, enhancing students’ ability to create a professional demo reel and prepare for various industry roles.
University of Iowa Cinematic Arts
The University of Iowa offers a range of cinematic arts programs providing comprehensive education in film and media. The undergraduate programs focus on core courses, faculty expertise, and hands-on learning opportunities, encouraging interdisciplinary studies with departments like communication and art history.
Graduate programs at the University of Iowa City feature thesis projects and advanced research opportunities, emphasizing interdisciplinary study and experimental cinema. The Headroom Screening Series enriches learning by showcasing contemporary works and featuring visiting artists.
Undergraduate Programs
The undergraduate programs at the University of Iowa prepare students for various careers in cinematic arts. The curriculum encourages engagement with related fields, providing a well-rounded education that enhances creative and technical skills. Students work with professional video cameras and DSLR cameras from the start, ensuring practical experience from day one.
The interdisciplinary approach allows students to explore various aspects of cinematic arts, including digital media, communication, and art history, preparing them for diverse roles in the media industry.
Graduate Programs
Graduate students at the University of Iowa engage in advanced research and thesis projects, often involving industry collaboration. These programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for high-level research and contributions to cinematic arts.
Emphasizing interdisciplinary study and experimental cinema, the programs allow graduate students to explore innovative approaches to filmmaking and media production, preparing them for careers in academia, research, and various media industries.
Headroom Screening Series
The Headroom Screening Series at the University of Iowa is a significant component of the cinematic arts program, featuring contemporary works and new media. This series exposes students to the latest industry trends and practices, with visiting artists offering valuable insights and inspiration.
The Headroom Screening Series provides students the opportunity to engage with contemporary media practices, enhancing their learning and artistic development, and keeping them ahead in the ever-evolving field of cinematic arts.
University of Northern Iowa Digital Media Programs
The University of Northern Iowa offers innovative digital media programs that integrate art, storytelling, and technical skills, preparing students for various multimedia careers. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, ensuring practical skills in video, audio, and multimedia production.
UNI’s digital media programs provide a comprehensive education, including both theoretical and practical components, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed for success in the fast-paced digital media world.
Hands-On Experience
Hands-on experience is a cornerstone of UNI’s digital media programs. Students engage in practical training using high-definition cameras and advanced audio recording techniques in specialized labs, enhancing their production skills and promoting experiential learning.
Working on real-world projects, students develop a vast skill set that includes individual job skills, technical proficiency, and effective collaboration. This practical training prepares students for successful careers in the multimedia industry, including their final production project. Their vast skill set includes essential competencies that enhance their employability.
Internship Placements
Internship placements are a critical component of UNI’s digital media programs. The university emphasizes securing internships to provide valuable industry experience and networking opportunities, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings and enhance their professional development.
Internships provide essential real-world experience in various media roles, crucial for career development. These opportunities prepare students for entry-level positions in the media industry, ensuring they are well-equipped to succeed.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of UNI’s digital media programs have successfully pursued careers in various media fields, showcasing the program’s effectiveness. The comprehensive training at UNI equips students with the technical skills and job skills needed to excel in the industry.
Graduates have entered diverse media roles, from 3D animation to video game design and multimedia production, testifying to the high-quality education and practical experience offered by UNI.
Kirkwood Community College Digital Media Program
Kirkwood Community College offers an Associate Degree in Digital Media, preparing students for entry-level job opportunities or transfer to four-year institutions. The program integrates art, storytelling, and technical skills to provide a well-rounded education in multimedia design, interactive media, and related fields.
Students at Kirkwood benefit from hands-on training essential for developing practical skills in various artistic and technical disciplines, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the digital media industry.
Program Structure
The program structure at Kirkwood Community College is designed to provide students with a thorough education in digital media. The curriculum includes a mix of animation courses, game design, and interactive media, allowing students to develop a strong foundation in both the artistic and technical aspects of digital media. Courses cover essential skills such as video production, audio recording, and multimedia design, ensuring that students are well-prepared for various roles in the industry.
Faculty at Kirkwood are experienced professionals who provide valuable insights and guidance, helping students navigate the complexities of the digital media world. The program also includes opportunities for hands-on learning, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Kirkwood Community College offers over $3 million in scholarships, making education more accessible for students pursuing studies in digital media. The application process is simplified, allowing students to apply once for multiple scholarship opportunities. This financial support is crucial for students who may need assistance covering tuition and other expenses.
In addition to scholarships, Kirkwood offers various financial aid options, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed. This comprehensive support system helps prepare students for their educational journey and future careers.
Transfer Agreements
Kirkwood Community College has established transfer agreements with all three state universities in Iowa, facilitating seamless transitions for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees. These agreements ensure that students can effectively transfer their credits, making the transition to a four-year institution smoother and more efficient.
The transfer agreements are crucial for students who wish to continue their education beyond an associate degree. They provide a clear pathway for academic progression, enabling students to achieve their educational and career goals.
St. Ambrose University Media Production
St. Ambrose University offers a major and minor in Media Production, focusing on diverse media careers such as television news, documentaries, and web formats. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities like SAUtv, the KALA radio station, and the student-run newspaper The Buzz, where students can gain hands-on experience in radio and television production.
The media production programs at St. Ambrose are designed to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in the fast-paced media industry. The curriculum includes practical training in various aspects of media production, ensuring that graduates are ready for a variety of roles upon completion of their studies.
Television Production
Students in the television production program at St. Ambrose University engage in hands-on training that encompasses skills in filmmaking, editing, broadcasting, motion graphics, and audio production. The curriculum includes diverse courses such as audio and video production, mass media, and news media convergence, which are essential for developing key competencies.
Graduates of the program are equipped for entry-level roles in the broadcast and cable television and video production industries. They can pursue various roles such as camera operators, editors, and multimedia journalists across different media sectors.
Radio Production
The radio production program at St. Ambrose University offers students hands-on experience in live broadcasting through the KALA radio station. Students participate in live broadcasting and production activities, providing practical experience that is invaluable for those looking to enter the radio industry.
This hands-on approach ensures that students develop the skills needed to succeed in various roles within radio production, including on-air talent, production assistants, and audio engineers. The practical experience gained through the KALA radio station is a key component of the program’s success.
Alumni Success
Graduates from St. Ambrose University have found success in various media organizations, including noted networks and media outlets. Alumni have established careers in diverse media roles, showcasing the effectiveness of the university’s media production programs.
Notable employers of St. Ambrose graduates include major networks like ABC and NBC, highlighting the high level of talent and preparation provided by the university. These success stories serve as an inspiration for current and prospective students, demonstrating the potential career opportunities available to graduates.
Western Iowa Tech Community College Video & Media Production
Western Iowa Tech Community College offers a Video and Media Production program that focuses on the techniques and technologies relevant to the film, video, television, and interactive media sectors. The program emphasizes developing skills in video production and management for various media platforms.
Students benefit from practical exercises and lectures that teach video production using industry-standard equipment. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for various roles in the media industry.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum at Western Iowa Tech Community College includes comprehensive animation courses, focusing on digital animation, game development, and interactive media. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the industry through hands-on experience and practical application.
Students highlight their experiences with the curriculum, noting the focus on technical skills and visual communication. This practical training is essential for developing the competencies needed to succeed in the fast-paced world of media production.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is crucial for making animation programs accessible to students. Approximately 90% of students enrolled in the Video and Media Production program at Western Iowa Tech receive some form of financial assistance. This support helps students cover tuition costs and other expenses associated with their education.
The availability of financial aid ensures that students from various backgrounds can pursue their educational goals without the burden of financial stress. This comprehensive support system is a vital component of the program’s success.
Career Pathways
Graduates from Western Iowa Tech’s Video and Media Production program have a range of career pathways in animation, film, television, and interactive media. Common job titles for graduates include Animation Artist, 3D Modeler, Visual Effects Supervisor, and Game Designer.
The program prepares students for diverse roles in various industry sectors, including entertainment, gaming, advertising, and education. With opportunities in both freelance and studio settings, graduates are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in the competitive media industry.
Waldorf University Communications Programs
Waldorf University, located in Forest City, IA, offers major and minor programs in communications that emphasize developing written and verbal communication, visual literacy, and multimedia skills. The communications programs at Waldorf prioritize practical experience in multimedia projects, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience in various aspects of media production.
These programs equip students with the essential skills needed to thrive in today’s digital environment. The focus on visual communication and technical proficiency using industry-standard software and related software prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in the multimedia and animation industries.
Multimedia Skills Development
Waldorf University’s communications programs emphasize the development of a broad range of skills in multimedia design, which is integral to adapting in today’s digital environment. Students gain hands-on experience in areas such as animation courses, game development, and interactive media, ensuring they are well-prepared for various roles in the industry.
The curriculum includes training in visual communication and technical proficiency, using industry-standard software. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates have the skills needed to succeed in the competitive world of multimedia and animation.
Scholarship Contest
Waldorf University encourages innovative projects through its Create U student scholarship contest, aimed at creative students. The contest awards $10,000 to students who can effectively realize their creative ideas, providing significant financial support for their education.
The Create U scholarship contest is an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and gain recognition for their innovative projects. This contest highlights Waldorf’s commitment to fostering talent and supporting students in their educational journey.