Webster University’s Animation Program Ranked Among the Top in the U.S.
March 09, 2022
Webster University’s Animation Program in the School of Communications was named as
one of the top 25 programs in the United States by Animation Career Review, a website
for people aspiring for careers in animation, game development/design/art, graphic
design, digital art and related fields.
The Animation Program was ranked 21st out of the top 25 nationally, 19th out of all Midwest programs, and the second-best program in Missouri.
“This is a spectacular ranking for the University, one that recognizes the expertise of our faculty and the enthusiasm and skills of our students,” said Chris Sagovac, chair of the Media Arts Department in the School of Communications. “With the new facilities improvements that are currently being constructed, we anticipate that our program will be lifted even further in the rankings in the near future.”
Anytime you see an animated movie in the theaters, or a movie that uses CGI, you likely are seeing work by a Webster graduate.”
For the rankings, Animation Career Review sent every school under consideration surveys requesting specific information about their programs as well as asking them to rank peer institutions. Animation Career Review lauded Webster for the program's small classes, hands-on experience with equipment and resources early in the program, collaboration across disciplines within the School of Communications and across the University, and internships and portfolio development.
The review also included a shout-out to Webster University alumni, pointing out that Webster graduates currently work at numerous major studios, including Disney, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), Digital Domain, Sony Pictures Imageworks, and DreamWorks.
With the new facilities improvements that are currently being constructed, we anticipate that our program will be lifted even further in the rankings in the near future.”
“I love seeing the impact our students are having on the industry,” said Chris Aaron, an assistant professor in the School of Communications and facilitator of the animation program. “Anytime you see an animated movie in the theaters, or a movie that uses CGI, you likely are seeing work by a Webster graduate.”
Animation Career Review started its annual animation school rankings in 2012. Criteria used to rank a school include academic reputation, admission selectivity, the depth and breadth of the program courses and the faculty, the value of the school as it relates to tuition and average student debt, and geographic location. Last year, Webster University was ranked among the best Midwest programs by the website.
To view student work produced by Webster University animation students this year, click here.