Cal State Fullerton Ranks 10th in Animation Programs

Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University NewsEducation

Students showcase their creativity in Cal State Fullerton's state-of-the-art animation studio.

News Summary

Cal State Fullerton’s animation programs have earned national recognition, ranking 10th among public universities in the U.S. according to Animation Career Review. The university also ranks 10th in California and 30th overall in the country, offering a range of opportunities for aspiring animators, including partnerships with major studios like Nickelodeon and Walt Disney. With specialized facilities and faculty who bring industry experience, CSUF provides a robust educational environment for students to thrive in the field of animation.

Exciting News for Animation Enthusiasts in Fullerton!

If you’re in Fullerton or have dreams of becoming the next big name in animation, you’ll be thrilled to hear about the amazing news surrounding Cal State Fullerton’s (CSUF) animation programs! Out of all the public schools in the United States, CSUF has proudly snagged the 10th spot in Animation Career Review’s latest rankings. Yes, you read that right—10th in the nation among public universities!

CSUF’s Place in the Spotlight

But that’s not all! When we take a closer look at the rankings, Cal State Fullerton also stands proud at being the 10th overall in California and the 30th overall in the entire country. These rankings are part of Animation Career Review’s comprehensive 2025 College Rankings, which assess various factors contributing to the quality of animation education.

A Deep Dive into the Programs

So, what makes CSUF’s animation department so special? Well, nestling in the spacious and vibrant Department of Art within the College of the Arts, students get to enjoy a fulfilling mix of experience and education. One fantastic aspect is the experiential learning opportunities they offer. With access to industry-standard studios, students can practice their craft in spaces designed for animation and digital art. The modern Visual Arts Complex boasts newly built and renovated classrooms, a green screen room, and specialized studios dedicated to animation, painting, drawing, and illustration.

Connecting Students with Industry Giants

What’s even better? CSUF has established partnerships with major players in the animation world, including well-known names like Nickelodeon and Walt Disney. Such collaborations pave the way for students to expand their professional networks and get a head start in the industry through internships and workshops! You can imagine that being in close proximity to such renowned studios means students have a better shot at landing those coveted roles in animation after graduation.

Quality Education at Its Best

When it comes to credibility, CSUF’s animation programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Plus, many of the faculty members bring real-world experience into the classroom, which means students learn directly from industry professionals who understand the latest trends and technologies. As a bonus, CSUF offers two Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees that let students specialize in entertainment art or game art, making it easier for them to find their niche.

Diverse Specialties for Aspiring Animators

CSUF’s animation programs stand out with a unique approach, allowing students to explore various pathways in animation. Whether they’re into 2D or 3D animation, hand-drawn techniques, or technical aspects of animation, they can find their passion at CSUF. This diversity strengthens students’ skills, equipping them with a range of tools to tackle various animation challenges.

A University that Encourages Growth

Beyond academics, Cal State Fullerton is the largest university in the California State University system and the only campus located in Orange County. With a solid offering of 122 degree programs and a rich array of Division I athletics, CSUF plays a significant role in contributing to the local workforce and economic development. The university stands out for its innovative practices, encouraging collaborative faculty-student research and unique opportunities like study abroad programs and internships.

A Record of Success from the Classroom to the Big Screen

The proof is in the pudding! Students like Tien Do have ambitiously returned to organizations like the Pilchuck Glass School multiple times, while alumni like Andrew Feliciano have landed major roles in Disney animations such as “Raya and the Last Dragon.” Additionally, Farnaz Esnaashari-Charmatz illustrates the success pathway available at CSUF, starting from an internship to eventually producing her own animated show, “Shimmer and Shine,” on Nickelodeon.

Looking Ahead

As CSUF continues to shine in the animation space, aspiring animators can rest assured knowing they’re in good hands. With high rankings, industry connections, and exceptional faculty, the future looks bright for animators dreaming big at Cal State Fullerton!