Is California College of the Arts a Good School for Animators?

Five years after my graduation from the California College of the Arts (CCA) with an animation degree, I am compelled to share insights on what my experience has taught me. This review will highlight the strengths and limitations of the CCA animation program, helping aspiring animators make informed decisions.

The Quality of Teachers

One of the standout features of CCA's animation program is the caliber of teaching. Many of the in-major teachers have worked at renowned studios such as Pixar, Dreamworks, and Tippett Studios. For instance, I shared a classroom with Mark Andrews, the director of Brave. While a few instructors may not have been as experienced, the program has seen significant improvements, with more talented teachers being hired over time.

Program Structure and Flexibility

CCA's animation program is relatively unstructured, providing a unique advantage for students. This flexibility allows individuals to tailor their curriculum to their specific interests. Several classmates focused on stop-motion animation, a field often overlooked in traditional animation programs. However, this autonomy can be a double-edged sword. Without a structured curriculum, students might not develop essential employable skills. A few classmates who ventured into more esoteric areas of animation faced challenges in finding employment post-graduation. Nevertheless, by my graduating class, it was evident that everyone was working in an animation-related field, a feat impressive compared to many other animation programs.

Caroling, Specialization, and Post-Graduation Employment

CCA excels in supporting two major focuses: character animation and storyboarding. For those inclined to these areas, the program offers extensive support and resources. However, if you're interested in other aspects of the animation pipeline, such as modeling, you might find less guidance. If I were to pursue a career in modeling again, I might opt for different schools. Nonetheless, I still enthusiastically recommend CCA to students with confidence in their desire to focus on character animation or storyboarding.

Cost and Scholarship Opportunities

While CCA is a prestigious institution, its sticker price can be quite high, making it a less appealing choice for those who need to finance their education fully. Unless you have the financial means, a full-tuition payment might put a strain on your budget. However, CCA is more generous with scholarships than many other competitive animation schools, making it financially more accessible in the long run. Combining this with the excellent teaching and support for character animation and storyboarding, CCA remains a valuable investment.

Conclusion

Overall, CCA is a fantastic option for aspiring animators, particularly those with a passion for character animation or storyboarding. If these are your areas of interest, the school’s supportive environment and transition from the classroom to the industry are likely to prepare you well. For other specialized needs, you might want to explore other programs. Regardless, CCA's flexible structure and the opportunity to learn from industry professionals make it a compelling choice.

Additional Notes

For more information, feel free to ask or leave a comment. Your questions will help others make informed decisions about their future in the animation industry.