Find the best UK universities for Animation (2D/3D) in 2026. Our rankings highlight creativity, technical skills, and student satisfaction to help you animate your future.
Best Universities for Animation (2D/3D): Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of the Arts London | 91 | 85 |
| 2 Silver | Falmouth University | 88 | 80 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Bournemouth | 87 | 78 |
| 4 | Goldsmiths, University of London | 85 | 79 |
| 5 | University of Central Lancashire | 83 | 77 |
| 6 | Bournemouth University | 84 | 79 |
| 7 | University of Brighton | 82 | 80 |
| 8 | Royal Holloway, University of London | 81 | 78 |
| 9 | University of Leeds | 79 | 82 |
| 10 | University of Glasgow | 80 | 81 |
1. University of the Arts London Gold
2. Falmouth University Silver
3. University of Bournemouth Bronze
4. Goldsmiths, University of London
5. University of Central Lancashire
6. Bournemouth University
7. University of Brighton
8. Royal Holloway, University of London
9. University of Leeds
10. University of Glasgow
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Animation rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Animation Universities Explained
University of Bournemouth
Strong industry connections, expert teaching staff, and hands-on projects make Bournemouth a top choice for animation students.
University of the Arts London (UAL)
Known for its creative environment and professional networks, UAL offers exceptional courses in both 2D and 3D animation.
Norwich University of the Arts
A specialist arts university focusing on cutting-edge digital animation techniques and close industry links.
Royal Holloway, University of London
Offers a blend of animation theory and practice, with excellent facilities and graduate employability.
University of Hertfordshire
Known for its applied approach, strong student satisfaction, and access to industry internships.
University of Portsmouth
Balanced teaching quality and creative community support with affordable living costs.
University of Sheffield
High research output in digital arts combined with vibrant student life.
University of Salford
Focus on digital media production and strong links to media industries.
University of Westminster
Central London location with access to top animation studios and networking opportunities.
University of Leeds
Combines solid academic standards with a lively campus atmosphere.
Career Prospects After an Animation Degree
Graduates find opportunities in film, TV, gaming, advertising, and digital media. Check our overall UK university rankings for more options or explore related courses like Media and Communication.
Animation Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical UCAS points range from 100 to 140, with portfolios playing a key role. Visit our course selection guide for advice on preparing your application.
Cheapest Cities to Study Animation in the UK
Portsmouth, Salford, and Norwich offer affordable living and supportive student communities for animation creatives.
Best Animation Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Sheffield, Leeds, and London stand out for vibrant nightlife and active student unions. Get involved with animation and creative arts societies to expand your network.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities such as Bournemouth, Royal Holloway, and Hertfordshire rank highly for wellbeing services and creative support networks.
Not Sure About Animation? Consider These Alternatives
Try courses like Film Studies, Media and Communication, or Graphic Design for related creative paths.
Summary: Which Animation Uni is Right for You?
Think about your creative style, course content, social life, and costs. Bookmark this page and compare your favourite universities to find the perfect fit.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Animation (2D/3D)
Leading UK universities for Animation include Bournemouth University, the University of the Arts London (UAL), and the National Film and Television School. Our 2026 rankings highlight these for creativity, industry links, and student satisfaction.
Bournemouth University often ranks top for Animation due to strong practical training and industry connections, with UAL close behind for creative excellence.
Yes, especially if you want a career in film, TV, gaming, or digital media. The degree offers hands-on skills that are highly valued, though building a strong portfolio is essential.
The UK is a global leader for Animation education, but Canada, the USA, and Australia also offer top programs, especially for 3D and visual effects.
Art and Design subjects are most common, along with Media Studies or Computing for digital skills. Requirements vary so always check university course pages for details.
Graduates work as animators, storyboard artists, visual effects specialists, game designers, and motion graphic designers in creative industries worldwide.
Yes, with growth in digital media, gaming, and streaming platforms, demand for skilled animators and digital artists remains strong across the UK.
Starting salaries for animation roles range from £20,000 to £28,000, with experienced professionals earning significantly more, especially in London and major studios.
Courses focusing on complex 3D modelling, visual effects, and advanced digital software tend to be the most challenging. Talk to current students to understand workload and support.
Graduates find work in animation studios, film and TV production, gaming companies, advertising agencies, and freelance creative roles.
Absolutely. Animation degrees are highly valued for their blend of creativity and technical skill, especially from top-ranked UK institutions.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
