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Private for-profit, 4-year

Gnomon

North Hollywood, California · www.gnomon.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

41.8%

2025

Peer median 61.3%

Tuition per year

$37,635

$59,721 with room and board

Peer median $40,478

Undergraduates

526

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 9 : 1

“Peers” are all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Gnomon, also known as the School of Visual Effects, is a prestigious institution located in Hollywood, California, that specializes in the art and technology of visual effects, 3D animation, and game design. Founded in 1997, Gnomon has built a reputation for its hands-on approach to education and industry-focused curriculum. The school emphasizes the importance of practical skills and real-world experience, providing students with the opportunity to work on projects that mirror the challenges faced in the professional visual effects and animation industries. Gnomon's state-of-the-art facilities include high-end computer labs, a dedicated virtual reality space, and a fully equipped motion capture studio, ensuring that students have access to the latest technology and tools to hone their craft.

The school's mission is encapsulated in its guiding philosophy: "Inspire, Educate, and Empower." Gnomon takes pride in its faculty, which consists of industry professionals with extensive experience in their respective fields, offering students unparalleled mentorship and insight into the rapidly evolving landscape of visual effects and animation. The student body is diverse and vibrant, fostering a collaborative environment where creativity thrives. Gnomon also maintains strong connections with leading companies in the entertainment industry, which enhances students' job prospects upon graduation. As a testament to its impact, Gnomon boasts a number of successful alumni who have gone on to work on major Hollywood productions, contributing to both animated features and blockbuster films. This combination of rigorous training, industry connections, and a supportive community makes Gnomon an exceptional choice for aspiring artists and technicians in the visual effects realm.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics

The data from Gnomon highlights several important trends concerning tuition, student enrollment, gender ratios, and graduation rates. Over the years, tuition fees have been on a steady rise, with in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition increasing from $26,025 in 2014 to $34,215 in 2024. This 31.5% increase in tuition is alarming, especially considering the growing financial burden on students and families, which can deter potential applicants.

In terms of enrollment, the institution has seen a significant growth in undergraduate students, rising from 135 in 2014 to 539 in 2023. This nearly 300% increase in student population suggests that the institution is becoming increasingly attractive, possibly due to improvements in programs or facilities. However, it raises questions about whether the school can maintain quality education with such a rapid influx of students.

The gender ratio among undergraduate students has also shifted, with male students comprising 76.6% in 2013, slowly decreasing to 61.97% by 2023. This transition toward a more balanced gender representation is a positive development, indicating a growing interest and inclusivity among female students in traditionally male-dominated fields.

Graduation rates, however, present a mixed picture. While the on-time graduation rate was at 100% in 2013, it dropped significantly to just 20% by 2017. Fortunately, it seems to have stabilized somewhat, but the fluctuations raise concern about student support and academic challenges faced by attendees.

Overall, while Gnomon shows promising growth in enrollment and gradual improvements in gender ratios, the rising tuition and fluctuating graduation rates indicate areas that require strategic attention to enhance the educational experience and outcomes for all students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
Los Angeles, about 10 mi
Nearest international airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 15 mi
North Hollywood, California
Academic calendar
Quarter
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Darrin Krumweide (Chief Adminstrator Officer)
Phone
3234666663117
City
North Hollywood, California
Address
6150 Laurel Canyon Blvd Ste 100, North Hollywood, CA 91606-3324

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 61.3% · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
53.1%
Women
28.6%

In 2020: men 38.9%, women 50.0%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Gnomon

The admission data from Gnomon over the years reveals significant trends in both enrollment and acceptance rates for male and female applicants. The male acceptance rate peaked at 100% in 2013 and 2015, indicating a very selective process during those years, whereas the female acceptance rate fluctuated considerably, with a high of 90% in 2010 and a low of 37.5% in 2019. This disparity raises questions about gender equity in admissions.
In terms of enrollment, the number of enrolled students shows variability, from just one student in 2011 and 2012 to a peak of 32 students in 2010. The year 2022 saw a notable increase in the number of denied applicants, reaching 32, which could suggest an increasingly competitive application process or possibly a rise in the quality of applications.
Moreover, the data indicates a trend where the number of deferred admissions has also varied, with the highest deferral noted in recent years, hinting at a strategic approach by the institution to manage enrollment amidst fluctuating applicant quality and quantity.
Overall, Gnomon’s admissions trends mirror broader patterns seen in higher education, where competitive pressures, gender disparities, and strategic enrollment management play crucial roles in shaping the academic landscape. As institutions continue to refine their admission processes, maintaining a balance between diversity and selectivity will be imperative for fostering an inclusive educational environment.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Gnomon Academy

The data from Gnomon Academy reveals a concerning trend in the availability of standardized test scores over a span of several years. Specifically, there is a lack of published information regarding the SAT and ACT scores, both in terms of submission rates and the actual score ranges for admitted students. This absence of data raises questions about the transparency of the admissions process and the criteria used for evaluating applicants.

In recent years, many educational institutions across the United States have shifted towards a test-optional policy, allowing students to decide whether or not to submit their standardized test scores. This trend has been particularly pronounced in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted standardized testing and prompted a reevaluation of its importance in college admissions. While this approach aims to create a more equitable admissions process, it also complicates the evaluation of institutional performance and applicant readiness.

The lack of reported admission statistics, including the percentage of applicants submitting scores, may indicate a strategic move by Gnomon Academy to focus on holistic admissions practices. However, without concrete data regarding test scores, prospective students and stakeholders may find it challenging to assess the competitiveness of the institution.

As Gnomon Academy continues to evolve, it will be essential to maintain communication with prospective students and provide clear metrics to foster confidence in the admissions process. Transparency in data reporting will not only enhance the institution's credibility but also support applicants in making informed choices about their educational journeys.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 4 in 10

55 applicants in 2025, 41.8% admitted

23 admitted 32 not admitted Yield 73.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's7327 international (37.0%)
Top 1 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Digital Arts
73

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends in Digital Arts

The data for the Digital Arts program reveals some intriguing insights into the graduation trends. In 2023, there were a total of 48 graduates with a bachelor's degree, while the number of international students graduating with the same degree stood at 7. This translates to approximately 14.6% of the bachelor's graduates being international students, indicating a healthy but niche interest among non-domestic students in this field.

Interestingly, there were no graduates at the master's or doctorate levels, which may point to a lack of advanced degree programs in Digital Arts within this institution or potentially a limited demand for such programs. This could also reflect broader trends in the job market; as industries increasingly prioritize practical skills over advanced degrees, students may opt to enter the workforce after completing their bachelor’s degree rather than pursuing further education.

Given the rapid evolution of digital media and technology, the Digital Arts program may need to adapt its curriculum and offerings to attract more students, especially at the master's level. The absence of international students in the master's and doctorate programs suggests that there may be opportunities for Gnomon to enhance its appeal through international partnerships, scholarships, or targeted marketing efforts aimed at attracting diverse talent.

Overall, while the bachelor’s program demonstrates a solid output, there is a clear gap in advanced degree offerings that could be addressed to enhance the program's overall appeal and competitiveness in the global education landscape.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Visual and Performing artshas 73 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnder
Digital Arts.$60,803

Students

526 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 58:42 · Freshman retention 90.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (526)

White
130 · 24.7%
International
122 · 23.2%
Asian
69 · 13.1%
Unknown
69 · 13.1%
Hispanic
64 · 12.2%
Two or more races
53 · 10.1%
Black
11 · 2.1%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
0.0%
18–19
18.1%
20–21
14.3%
22–24
18.4%
25 and over
49.2%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Gnomon in 2023

The student body composition at Gnomon in 2023 reflects noteworthy trends in diversity and gender representation. Among the undergraduate newcomers, there are 27 students, with a significant male presence at approximately 66.7%. This trend continues with returning undergraduates, where out of 239 students, nearly 59.4% are male. Such a male dominance is consistent across the categories, including transfer students, who exhibit a 62.5% male representation among 24 individuals.

The overall gender ratio indicates a strong inclination towards male students, which raises questions about the inclusivity of the programs. With female students constituting roughly 33.3% in the new cohort and 40.6% among returning students, it suggests that Gnomon may need to strategize on attracting more female talent, especially in fields where gender representation has historically been skewed.

Examining the racial composition further, the data indicates a need for more information to understand the diversity within the student population. The representation of various racial and ethnic groups, including white, Asian, Latino, Pacific Islander, and African American students, is critical in fostering a more inclusive environment. Unfortunately, precise numbers for different demographics are not provided for returning and transfer students, which limits our understanding of the full landscape.

In light of broader societal movements advocating for diversity and inclusion in education, Gnomon has an opportunity to enhance its outreach efforts. By actively engaging underrepresented groups, the institution can create a more balanced and diverse student community, enriching the educational experience for all.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Gnomon in 2023

The age composition of students at Gnomon in 2023 reveals some interesting patterns regarding the demographics of both male and female students. The data shows that the majority of male students are concentrated in the 22-29 age bracket, with significant numbers of 65 males aged 22-24 and 68 aged 25-29. This indicates that Gnomon attracts a relatively young male audience, possibly due to the burgeoning interest in creative fields such as animation and visual effects, which often draw younger individuals eager to enter the industry.

For female students, the highest representation is also found in the 25-29 age group, with 50 females. However, as we look at younger age categories, the numbers drop significantly, with only 40 females aged 18-19 and 31 aged 20-21. This decline raises questions about the barriers that may prevent younger women from entering these fields, which could include societal expectations or a lack of encouragement to pursue careers in technology and art.

Interestingly, there are very few graduate students in this data set, particularly among the male demographic, which may suggest that most students are opting for undergraduate studies. The absence of graduate males might reflect a trend in the industry where professionals prefer to gain experience over further education.

Overall, Gnomon’s student age data highlights a youthful and predominantly male student body, while also pointing to potential areas for improvement in attracting a more balanced gender representation, especially among younger students. This aligns with ongoing discussions in the industry about inclusivity and representation in creative fields.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Undergraduates23.2%

122 in 2025 · 13.6% in 2016

0% 15% 30% 2016: 13.6%2017: 12.0%2018: 8.7%2019: 7.0%2020: 14.0%2021: 14.4%2022: 10.3%2023: 19.7%2024: 25.0%2025: 23.2%
2016Peer median 5.0%2025

Data insights

Commentary on International Student Enrollment Trends at Gnomon

The data on international student enrollment at Gnomon reveals a fluctuating trend over the years, reflecting broader patterns in global education. In 2008, international students comprised 16.9% of the undergraduate population, a figure that rose significantly to 28.21% by 2011. However, this upward trend saw a decline in subsequent years, with the percentage dropping to 7.01% in 2019. This decline may mirror the global challenges faced by many institutions due to increasing competition, changes in immigration policies, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international mobility.

In 2020, the percentage of international students rebounded to 14.04%, and by 2023, it reached 19.67%. This resurgence suggests that Gnomon is once again attracting a significant number of international students, possibly due to an increasing reputation for its specialized programs in the fields of art and technology. The overall growth in the total number of undergraduate students from 71 in 2008 to 539 in 2023 also indicates a broader appeal and expansion of the institution.

It is crucial to consider the importance of a diverse student body in fostering an inclusive educational environment. International students bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich the academic community. As Gnomon continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education, maintaining a balanced approach to attracting and supporting international students will be essential for its sustained growth and global competitiveness.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$59,721

Undergraduate tuition
$37,635
Room and board
$22,086
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $58,844 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Tuition rose 35% from 2018 to 2025; room and board rose 66%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$13.6M

Tuition and fees
$13.6M100.0%

Expenses$12.5M

Institutional support
$3.5M28.5%
Instruction
$3.0M24.4%
Student services
$1.5M11.7%
Academic support
$1.3M10.1%
Other
$3.2M25.4%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

All faculty
$101,603peers $68,014
Instructor
$101,603peers $55,481

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Gnomon (The School of Visual Effects, Games & Animation) that you might find interesting:

  1. University of Southern California (南加州大学) - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, USC is a prestigious research university known for its strong programs in film, business, and the arts.

  2. University of California-Los Angeles (加州大学洛杉矶分校) - With a rank of 15, UCLA is one of the leading public universities in the United States, offering a diverse range of programs and a vibrant campus life.

  3. California Institute of Technology (加州理工学院) - With an impressive rank of 7, Caltech is renowned for its science and engineering programs, fostering innovation and research.

  4. Harvey Mudd College (哈维穆德学院) - Ranked 16th, Harvey Mudd is a liberal arts college focused on science and engineering, known for its rigorous curriculum and collaborative environment.

  5. Claremont McKenna College (克莱尔蒙特麦克纳学院) - With a rank of 11, this liberal arts college emphasizes economics and government, fostering leadership and analytical skills.

These institutions offer a variety of programs and opportunities for students interested in pursuing higher education in diverse fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 1.3 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Gnomon Academy

The crime data from Gnomon Academy reveals a significant fluctuation in reported incidents over the years. In 2013, the academy recorded a crime rate of 6.49 per 1,000 students, indicating a concerning level of incidents. However, this number dropped dramatically to zero in the subsequent years from 2014 to 2020, suggesting either an effective implementation of safety measures or a possible underreporting of incidents.

The year 2017 marked a resurgence in reported crimes, with a rate of 13.82 per 1,000 students, primarily driven by incidents related to gun arrests and drug arrests. This spike may correlate with broader societal issues regarding substance abuse and gun violence seen across many educational institutions in recent years. In 2018, while the crime rate slightly decreased to 12.02 per 1,000 students, it still highlighted an ongoing concern.

Interestingly, the data from 2019 onwards reveals a return to a zero crime rate, which raises questions. It could imply an improved campus environment or again, potential lapses in reporting. The absence of crimes in the last few years could be a positive sign, reflecting successful crime prevention strategies or a shift in student behavior.

Overall, while the fluctuations in crime rates at Gnomon Academy present a mixed picture, the years with zero reported crimes suggest a potential for a safe educational environment. Ongoing vigilance and transparent reporting will be essential in maintaining and improving campus safety. For anyone interested in understanding crime rates better, more detailed calculations can be found here: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.