Master in Experimental Animation (MFA)

California Institute of the Arts, located near Valencia in Southern California, is a leading institution for creative education founded with a legacy of innovation in the arts. CalArts encourages experimental practice across disciplines including art, film, music, theater, dance, and animation, and offers a compact, studio-focused learning environment where students develop original work under the mentorship of practicing artists and industry professionals.

The institute promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning, supporting individual artistic development with cutting-edge studios, performance spaces, and digital labs. Small class sizes and intensive critique-based courses help students refine their voices and build professional portfolios, while visiting artists, festivals, and partnerships provide exposure to the wider creative industry. Academic advising, portfolio coaching, and career development services support transitions to festivals, galleries, studios, and commercial roles.

International students find a welcoming community and opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, residencies, and public exhibitions that elevate their practice. CalArts fosters a culture of experimentation, critical inquiry, and professional networking, making it a strong choice for creative learners who seek rigorous mentorship, cross-disciplinary exploration, and direct engagement with the contemporary arts scene in the United States.

The Master in Experimental Animation program at California Institute of the Arts is a Master's degree for students who want to become experimental animators. It takes a few years to complete and helps students develop skills in animation, experimentation, and critical thinking.

Students learn about animation techniques, theory, and history through coursework and hands-on projects. They also get training in professionalization, including film festivals, submissions, and industry events, to prepare them for careers in the field.

Graduates can become Animation Directors, Studio Producers, or Professors of Animation, working for animation studios, film schools, or their own production companies. They may also work as Freelance Animators or Animation Curators, creating and showcasing innovative animation work.