CHOOSING THE RIGHT ANIMATION SCHOOL – WHAT REALLY MATTERS (AND WHY HAA STANDS OUT)
If you’re passionate about animation, finding the right school can feel overwhelming. Every program claims to spark creativity — but only a few actually prepare you for a career. At Hollywood Animation Academy, we believe an animation school should do more than hand out degrees, it should produce artists who get hired.
Here’s how to choose the right school, and why HAA continues to stand apart.
1. Studios Hire Artists Who Prove They Can Do What They Do
Studios don’t hire résumés; they hire reels. Four years of work toward a traditional college degree often won’t lead to a job unless the school truly pushes students to create studio-style films and professional-quality work. At HAA, everything you create is built for your portfolio — the only thing that matters in the real world.
2. Real Mentorship from Real Professionals
Every instructor at HAA is a working animator, director, or designer with real industry credits. Students receive weekly feedback just like a professional production team would. This personal attention accelerates growth and builds studio-level confidence.
3. Hands-On, Production-Level Assignments
From character acting shots to Unreal Engine cinematics, every assignment mirrors a real studio workflow. You’ll work the way professionals do — with storyboards, blocking, feedback, and polish. No filler projects. No busywork.
4. Fast Track to Professional Results
Traditional 4-year programs can cost a fortune and still leave graduates unprepared. At HAA, you’ll reach demo-reel quality results in half the time and for a fraction of the cost, with a direct focus on storytelling, design, and performance that studios value most.
5. A Creative Community That Feels Like Hollywood
At HAA, you’re surrounded by other artists who dream big, push harder, and lift each other up. The collaboration and mentorship you’ll experience here doesn’t just prepare you for work — it inspires you to love what you do every day.
Choose the Path That Gets You There Faster
When comparing schools, ask this one question: Will this program actually make me hirable? At Hollywood Animation Academy, the answer is yes, because that’s exactly what we train you for.
Take an Online Intro Course
Do you want to give animation a try before you commit to a college-level program, or aim for a career in animation? Our Intro to Animation Online Courses are perfect for you - and are available for 2D animation, or 3D animation - whatever you are most interested in trying. Our courses meet one evening a week for eight weeks, and give you an access to in-person training and hands-on use of the software. Class size is limited - so sign up now for our January courses!
