Chicago is one of the most creative cities in the United States, making it an excellent place to study animation. From world-class universities to specialised arts institutes, aspiring animators can choose from a variety of high-quality programs designed to prepare them for careers in 2D animation, 3D modelling, VFX, motion graphics, gaming, character design, and digital storytelling.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the Top 10 Animation Schools in Chicago and Their Fees, including detailed overviews and what makes each institution stand out.
Top 10 Animation Schools In Chicago And Fees
1. DePaul University – School of Cinematic Arts
DePaul University is widely considered one of the best animation schools in the Midwest. Its School of Cinematic Arts offers top-tier facilities, including a massive production studio, motion-capture stage, soundstages, professional editing suites, and cutting-edge animation labs.
Programs Offered
- BFA in Animation
- MFA in Animation
- Concentrations in Storyboarding, 3D Animation, Motion Graphics, Game Art, and VFX
Why It Stands Out
DePaul has one of the largest animation departments in the country. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools such as Maya, Blender, Toon Boom Harmony, Unreal Engine, Nuke, and ZBrush. Many professors are active professionals with Hollywood and gaming industry experience, offering mentorship and real-world insight. DePaul also hosts an annual Animation Showcase where students present their work to industry employers.
Estimated Fees
- Undergraduate Tuition: $43,500 per year
- Graduate Tuition: $915 per credit hour
2. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago is globally renowned for its creative arts programs, and its animation curriculum is one of the most experimental and flexible in the United States.
Programs Offered
- BFA in Studio with an Animation Pathway
- MFA in Studio
- Courses in 2D animation, Stop Motion, Experimental Animation, Motion Graphics, and Visual Narrative
Why It Stands Out
SAIC encourages creative freedom and offers access to advanced stop-motion labs, green-screen studios, fabrication spaces, and digital editing rooms. Students can explore hybrid disciplines like performance animation, sound design, or installation-based animation. A large part of the program focuses on developing a personal artistic voice.
Estimated Fees
- Undergraduate Tuition: $57,400 per year
- Graduate Tuition: $52,300 per year
3. Columbia College Chicago – Cinema and Television Arts
Columbia College Chicago is an excellent option for students seeking a balance between industry-focused training and artistic development. Its Animation Program is one of the most popular in the region.
Programs Offered
- BA and BFA in Animation
- MFA options
- Specialisations in Traditional Animation, Computer Animation, and Stop-Motion Animation
Why It Stands Out
Columbia offers small class sizes, a strong student community, and internship opportunities with Chicago-based studios. Students learn storytelling, character design, compositing, rigging, and VFX. The school often collaborates with film, gaming, and theatre departments, providing interdisciplinary experience.
Estimated Fees
- Undergraduate Tuition: $31,000 per year
- Graduate Tuition: $1,250 per credit hour
4. Flashpoint Chicago – Campus of Columbia College Hollywood
Flashpoint specializes in digital arts and hands-on filmmaking, making it ideal for students who want practical training in animation, motion graphics, and digital design.
Programs Offered
- BFA in Digital Media
- Concentrations in Animation & VFX
- Short Courses in Motion Graphics, 3D Modelling, and Digital Storytelling
Why It Stands Out
With small studio-style classes, students receive personalised mentorship and real-world training. The school’s animation pathway includes modelling, character animation, rigging, motion capture, and compositing. Flashpoint graduates often work in gaming, advertising, and digital media companies in Chicago.
Estimated Fees
- Undergraduate Tuition: $28,300 per year
5. Loyola University Chicago – Digital Media Program
Loyola’s Digital Media program includes animation as part of a modern, technology-driven curriculum aimed at preparing students for careers in digital content creation.
Programs Offered
- BA in Film and Digital Media
- Courses in Animation, Motion Graphics, 3D Modelling, and Interactive Media
Why It Stands Out
This program is great for students who want a broad digital media education that includes animation. Loyola emphasizes storytelling, media ethics, and technical proficiency. Students can participate in film festivals, digital showcases, and internships with media firms around Chicago.
Estimated Fees
- Tuition: $51,000 per year
6. Roosevelt University – Digital Marketing & Media Arts Program
Roosevelt University integrates animation into its digital arts and marketing programs. While not a traditional animation school, it offers strong motion graphics and digital storytelling components.
Programs Offered
- BA in Digital Marketing
- BA in Digital Communication
- Courses in Animation, Graphic Design, Digital Video, and Interactive Media
Why It Stands Out
Roosevelt focuses on practical digital content creation in real-world business contexts. Students learn Adobe Creative Suite, 2D animation tools, and techniques for branding, advertising, and multimedia design—useful for careers in marketing agencies or creative departments.
Estimated Fees
- Tuition: $31,500 per year
7. Harold Washington College (City Colleges of Chicago)
For students looking for an affordable way to start their animation education, Harold Washington College offers an excellent Digital Multimedia program.
Programs Offered
- AAS in Digital Multimedia & Animation
- Certificate in Graphic & Web Design
- Courses in 2D/3D Animation, Motion Graphics, Digital Illustration, and Video Editing
Why It Stands Out
This school is one of the most budget-friendly options in Chicago, making it perfect for beginners or those wanting to transfer into a four-year animation program later. Students gain practical experience and access to Mac labs and digital media software.
Estimated Fees
- In-district Tuition: $4,600 per year
- Out-of-district Tuition: $11,500 per year
8. Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy (Historical Programs)
Although Tribeca Flashpoint merged with Columbia College Hollywood, its Chicago campus still reflects its strong legacy in animation and digital arts training.
Programs Offered
- Digital Media Courses
- Animation & VFX Modules
- Motion Graphics and Game Design Electives
Why It Stands Out
The academy was known for immersive project-based learning and strong industry connections. Today, its integrated programs still follow that tradition by offering practical and collaborative animation coursework that prepares students for careers in post-production, film, and advertising.
Estimated Fees
- Tuition: $28,000–$30,000 per year
9. University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) – Electronic Visualization Program
UIC’s animation pathway is part of its Electronic Visualization curriculum, which focuses on digital art, 3D modelling, and interactive media.
Programs Offered
- BFA in Art with an Electronic Visualization Focus
- MFA in New Media Arts
- Courses in Animation, 3D Modelling, Digital Imaging, and Virtual Reality
Why It Stands Out
UIC blends fine arts foundations with modern digital animation skills. Students explore both technical and conceptual aspects of animation, including VR and interactive design. The university is research-driven and ideal for students interested in experimental or technology-heavy animation work.
Estimated Fees
- In-state Tuition: $17,800 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $35,600 per year
10. Northeastern Illinois University – Multimedia Studies Program
Northeastern Illinois University offers multimedia courses that expose students to animation as part of a broader digital media curriculum.
Programs Offered
- BA in Communication, Media & Theatre
- Courses in 2D Animation, Motion Graphics, Storyboarding, and Digital Editing
Why It Stands Out
NEIU is one of the most affordable public universities in Chicago. Its multimedia program covers creative and technical animation skills while emphasising communication and storytelling. Students can apply animation techniques in filmmaking, advertising, education, and online media.
Estimated Fees
- In-state Tuition: $13,000 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: $25,000 per year
Conclusion
Chicago offers a diverse range of animation programs—from elite art schools like SAIC to affordable public colleges like Harold Washington College. Whether you’re looking for 2D animation, 3D modelling, stop-motion, VFX, motion graphics, or game design, this list provides options for every budget and career path.