2024 Best Colleges with Animation, Video Graphics and Special Effects Degrees in California

• Los Altos Hills, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  509 reviews

Junior: I have been at Foothill for almost three years now and throughout these past years I feel like I am very satisfied with my education here. To begin, the professors show that they care for their students by being flexible to meet with students one on one and they are very big on advocating for diversity within their classrooms. In every class I have taken, the professors make it a point to emphasize the importance of valuing everyone in the class. Most importantly, the professors provide students with the information of almost every resource that is available to us such as tutoring, mental health services , and financial aid resources. What I also really love about the school is the campus. The style of the campus gives me an old town vibe and I completely fell in love with it. There are so many trees and open space so it is possible to study or do homework at the tables that are spread out in the quad. Overall, this school is a good choice to keep in mind!... Read 509 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,820

• SAT range —

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,740 reviews

Senior: This university has contributed to the academic, social, and communal achievements. I have acquired during the course of my stay as a student here. Loyola Marymount University is the positive, namely, cause of not only my own achievements, but my family and siblings to come as well. As a first time generation student who was not exposed to diverse environments, independent environments; LMU has created a comfortable, easily accessible environment for us! I am thrilled that my siblings will be attending LMU next year, and joining the summer program this summer, 2023! Thank you LMU for being extremely welcoming, having positively supporting staff and support groups!... Read 1,740 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $40,180

• SAT range 1250-1420

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.11 out of 5  1,024 reviews

Freshman: My first semester at SBCC I took 2 online courses and 2 in-person courses. I really liked how simple the online courses were. I never had trouble turning in online assignments, contacting teachers, or asking for help. I also enjoyed how much the teachers cared even though we weren't seeing each other on a daily basis. They emialed us to make sure we were on track and always provided resources for extra help. The professors were also very educated on how to use the online format. My in-person classes were just as good. The professors truly cared about the work they put out. I took an acting and journalism class with amazing professors who pushed me to do better and made the class fun. Overall my time at SBCC was great!... Read 1,024 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $14,000

• SAT range —

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  2,269 reviews

Alum: Overall, I had a very positive experience going to Chapman. The campus was beautiful; there was always a new part of campus to discover with its unique layout. The professors provided such a positive teaching atmosphere that inspired students to ask questions. I always felt like the teachers went above and beyond to be available to help their students. The smaller class sizes helped foster a community that took pride in helping and reaching out to one another. The food on campus? DELICOUS! The cafeteria set up allows for students to eat and study or conduct group meetings thanks to the spacious tables with ample seating. Athletics at Chapman turns students into family. Teams would support each other and have lots of laughs on trips to games. Coaches would be mindful of student schedules and would establish a healthy balance between school and sport. Chapman was absolutely a delight to attend. If anyone is looking for a family away from family, this is it.... Read 2,269 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $40,451

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Pasadena, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,789 reviews

Freshman: Pasadena City College while not a highly connected community, is a very pleasant and friendly one. Students tend to keep to themselves and professors are very eager to help their students succeed and are far more willing to communicate with their students than in my previous college experiences. It will not be easy! You will need to put in hard work, and utilize all resources available to you should you want to pull off those A grades. The campus is sweet and small, relatively quiet and nestled right next to many boba shops and fast food options for busier students who need a quick meal to tide them over. Be it working night shifts, day shifts, or anything in-between; if you are willing to communicate with professors they will do all in their power to accommodate you. Overall while students tend to keep to themselves, some of the best friendships I've made were through PCC. I discovered both my patience and my grit with the Pasadena Lancers, proud to have been apart of the family... Read 1,789 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,466

• SAT range —

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,946 reviews

Sophomore: Mt. SAC has given me a sense of belonging in college, a newfound appreciation for education, and guidance for the rest of my life. The support programs and clubs gave me a community in higher education. The teachers, counselors, and fellow students gave me a newfound appreciation for education. And my guidance for the rest of my life came from the Mt SAC. events, counselors, student programs, and courses. I couldn't be more grateful!... Read 1,946 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,774

• SAT range —

• Fremont, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.67 out of 5  455 reviews

Sophomore: My time at Ohlone College has been both challenging and rewarding. One of the things I appreciate most about Ohlone College is the abundance of valuable college resources available to students. They offer various support services to help students succeed academically. The tutoring center has been particularly beneficial, providing assistance in areas where I may need extra help. Whether it's getting clarification on complex topics or receiving guidance on assignments, the tutoring center has been a valuable asset. Moreover, the college organizes career services and workshops that have been immensely helpful in shaping my career goals. They offer resume-building workshops, job fairs, and internship opportunities, which have provided me with practical insights into the business world and helped me prepare for my future career.... Read 455 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,787

• SAT range —

• Santa Maria, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  755 reviews

Sophomore: The staff is beyond extraordinary! Felt like walking in and being greeted by a big family. Everyone there wants to see you succeed, and no question is a dumb question. I was very anxious to start college as a 27 year old, and they helped me overcome my fears and anxiousness and I’m tackling more than I thought I would in a semester!... Read 755 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,629

• SAT range —

• San Francisco, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,014 reviews

Junior: City College of San Francisco was such a grounding and fulfilling experience as a community college student. I enjoyed every course taken because of the in-depth teaching and open-mindedness of professors. Growing up in the Bay Area, it was very comforting to know that there are educators out there who are willing to go above and beyond for their students as well as the institution itself that is close to home. Much heart, passion, and hard work has gone into CCSF, and I hope the administration is able to continue working with such great faculty in the future. I will always remember and cherish my time at City!... Read 1,014 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,261

• SAT range —

• South Lake Tahoe, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  72 reviews

Sophomore: Lake Tahoe CC is a quaint and homey campus that is easy to navigate- especially for first time students who might be intimidated. Its location offers great scenery, and you’ll definitely be able to appreciate the natural beauty of Tahoe while walking through campus. Our school offers one of the only dark rooms on a college campus in California, and it’s even one of the last few schools in the nation offering classes in film development.... Read 72 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,867

• SAT range —

• Glendale, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  680 reviews

Sophomore: I love this school! Overall it's been a great experience being a student at GCC. The professors are mostly good, the classes are engaging and I've learned a lot, and the school administrators are very helpful. I've worked with many counselors and I feel very supported by my school, and I'm always learning about new groups or scholarship opportunities. The transfer center is also great and offers many resources for students looking to transfer with an Associates degree.... Read 680 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,823

• SAT range —

• Santa Monica, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  2,143 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a on campus Santa Monica College student. The energy on campus is very positive along with friendly students. The campus is also very diverse wit both students and teachers! There are a lot of food and drink choices all over the campus as well! The patio area near the cafe has a vast amount of tables and seating areas. Most of the class rooms look new and updated with both the buildings structure and the technology. The school also offers a large variety of different classes and the class options are very flexible to complicated schedules. Santa Monica College also offers a significant amount of extra help for students with learning disabilities. Most of the staff is friendly, welcoming, and helpful. There are also many clubs, fairs, and events on the Santa Monica campus. I personally believe that Santa Monica College is one of the best community college options available in California.... Read 2,143 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,380

• SAT range —

• Norwalk, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,331 reviews

Niche User: The best decision I have ever made was to attend Cerritos College for my summer courses. My teachers' and counselors' support throughout all of my classes helped me finish with excellent grades. The college environment in Cerritos is diverse and conveniently located. It is convenient for us students to grab a bite to eat before class because the campus is close to many restaurants. The level of safety is incredible, with constant security ensuring that all students are secure during class hours and during various important events. At Cerritos College, the students are approachable and make it simple to form relationships. Sports in Cerritos are exciting and enjoyable, especially football games. #GoFalcons!... Read 1,331 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,557

• SAT range —

• Santa Rosa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,330 reviews

Freshman: I love the atmosphere here! Everyone is friendly and I really like my professors. Theatre and English are my favorites. The books for classes are so interesting and how our classes and assignments go are pretty interesting and engaging. I wish they had a program to help with books and main supplies. They have been helping with food and some financial aid. But I really wish they could help with supplies, because that can really add up fast, especially since a lot of students have to work a lot to have enough for it. I love my campus though, the cafe and main cafeteria has many options and easy access to any information that I may need, the counseling and main mental health awareness is pretty good too, it has made school a lot easier!... Read 1,330 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,220

• SAT range —

• Oceanside, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  937 reviews

Sophomore: I loved the stem tutoring center and the free snacks available in the cafeteria. Staff including library and especially professors are very helpful and kind. You definitely have to advocate for yourself but I’m sure you do at other community colleges and universities. There aren’t many sports but there’s a ton of clubs to choose from. There are many other programs at miracosta such as accommodations for student learning, an honors society, transfer center and more. The counselors are great and are really helpful with financial aid, picking classes, and scholarships. I have definitely learned a lot and am excited to learn more going into my second year. Highly recommend!... Read 937 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,946

• SAT range —

• Cypress, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.07 out of 5  1,047 reviews

Sophomore: I love Cypress College! I came here after being at a 4-year university for a bit, because I wanted to save money. Cypress hasn't disappointed. They have plenty of programs that help students of different backgrounds. I've been fortunate to have all my textbooks paid for by the VRC. The STEM Program also provides amazing resources to students, including books loans and other perks. Campus provides free breakfasts and lunches for all students. If you're involved in clubs, there's so much potential to build a community for yourself. I generally feel safe on campus. Surrounding area has a lot of good restaurants and stores. Academics are good, but I've only had experience with STEM. I'm sure quality varies by professor since many are adjunct/not tenured; make use of RateMyProfessors. Overall I've had a wonderful experience here. Community colleges are a great financial decision, and Cypress College makes it a great educational and social experience as well.... Read 1,047 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,951

• SAT range —

• San Diego, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  963 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, San Diego Mesa college is a perfectly fine school and honestly, probably your best choice in terms of community colleges in San Diego. They have a lot of opportunities and various resources to help disadvantaged students acclimate properly into the school. More often then not, the professors at Mesa are really passionate and inspiring within their classes - just be sure to always check ratemyprofessor first!... Read 963 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,663

• SAT range —

• Redwood City, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.27 out of 5  256 reviews

Graduate Student: Dear I am glad to been here! I am Natan Assefa Abebe from Ethiopia. I have more than 13 years experience in Pharmacy Technician field. I'm have Diploma in Pharmacy Technician. In my experience I am a solution maker, inoviator or finder of ways to do and upgrade the existing work to the upgrade level and finder of new one. Through the pass of a years I want to upgrade my education and my life style. But what was the difficult to do so is money. I have not money to upgrade my education and my life also. That's why I am starting to get the opportunity of making money, searching opportunities to get money, Sponsors and scholarships. I Hope, You will Help Me until I achieve my dream and goal. Thank you So!... Read 256 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,923

• SAT range —

• Moorpark, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,200 reviews

Junior: Moorpark is a great college with a lot of options for classes and great programs. I am currently enrolled in their radiologic technology program and it is so amazing. The professors are great and the program really makes you prepared to work in a hospital setting. I also did my pre requisites for the program at Moorpark and have received a Associates from Moorpark College. The only change I would like to see if counselors who are more helpful and caring. I had many poor experiences with the counselors there and know many students that agree with me. Overall it is a great school and I would highly recommend it to anyone, especially for radiology!... Read 1,200 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,856

• SAT range —

• Oroville, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  710 reviews

Freshman: I really love how Butte college cares not only about its students, but also the environment. I have met so many teachers and faculty there that are really excited to help their students succeed in life and what they are passionate about! There are also many environment conscious choices around campus, such as carpool spaces, a bus system, and solar panels! Butte also did a lot to help students through the pandemic with additional grants and other forms of help. The campus itself is clean, and with areas such as the Queer resource center, road runner hub and food pantry, and the campus safe space, I always feel welcome and at ease.... Read 710 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,736

• SAT range —

• Cupertino, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,181 reviews

Sophomore: Attending De Anza was a great experience. I received my first AA in 1999. Since then, I have taken more classes, either as a fun learning opportunity or to help me advance in my career. During the lockdown, I went back to De Anza for another AA degree, which is great segue for my current educational experience-MBA (which is another review!). As a student at De Anza, at various points over the past 20 years I feel that I have a good perspective on the school - it is worth your time and energy! The education is top notch, the instructors care, and all the staff are ready to support yo uin all stages of your academic journey!... Read 1,181 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,236

• SAT range —

• Saratoga, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  512 reviews

Sophomore: My experience so far at west valley has been really great. I've taken lots of asynchronous, synchronous, and in-person classes. Many professors at this school are very understanding and want to support you in every way they can. West valley also has amazing counselors that are so helpful when it comes to meeting transfer or graduation requirements. For any students considering going to a community college in the San Jose area, I would recommend West Valley!... Read 512 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,890

• SAT range —

• Fullerton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,409 reviews

Sophomore: I liked the environment and campus. The school had a lot of resources that helped me in classes. I made a lot of friends and new people. I had the opportunity in multiple classes to communicate and get to know New people. The campus is close and small. Getting around classes was pretty simple. If I was ever lost, there was someone always willing to help me. The food on campus is great! They also had a Jamba Juice that was not open and still isn’t to this day. The idea of it is awesome though, I love Jamba Juice. They should open it. I do enjoy the life outside of school. We are so close to cal state Fullerton. There are a lot of fun things to do and places to visit where you will find students from all over. My professors here at Fullerton college are all very unique. Some very outgoing, some very calm and simple, some are even hilarious. The variety of personalities at this school is very unique. The diversity is beautiful. The education is great and simple. Lots of cool courses also... Read 1,409 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,191

• SAT range —

• Kentfield, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  252 reviews

Other: At College of Marin, teachers and staff are genuinely interested in your success. I have been preparing to apply to nursing school over the course of the last six years, with many serious real life interruptions to my education. I was given the benefit of the doubt under many circumstances and encouraged to continue with my studies, regardless of pace. Despite the many trials and tribulations, I have felt supported continuously and have been given the chance to make up for shortcomings due to hardship. I was recently admitted to College of Marin's school of nursing with excellent scoring on my application and much that is due to the support I received at the school. I look forward to two more years and then transferring to a graduate program. Thanks for the opportunity to provide a positive review.... Read 252 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,717

• SAT range —

• Costa Mesa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,155 reviews

Alum: OCC is one of the biggest and, arguably, one of the best community colleges in the nation. They boast a large variety of majors and programs for students to explore. My experience with the counselors have been amazing, as they helped me complete the credits I needed for transfer and discover the right major for me. As a two-year college, the classes offered are mostly lower division general education classes. OCC offers an associates degree or certification for almost every major available. The facilities on campus are well maintained with brand new buildings across campus, including the college center, student union, literature & language building, and (my favorite) the planetarium. You’ll be able to meet and learn along side a diverse population of students coming to study from across the country and the world. With a beautiful campus, a large variety of majors, and amazing staff, I couldn’t recommend OCC more!... Read 1,155 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,836

• SAT range —