You can start out on your own. Many animators started as self-taught, learning the basics from books and videos. Many useful lessons and free videos on various topics and programs can be found in the freelance group. But a specialized education will speed up your progress. You will get the necessary knowledge and skills faster and you will collect a portfolio during your studies.
The general algorithm is as follows:
Acquire a computer capable of processing and rendering projects, download the necessary programs.
Study one or more programs with the help of available materials. For example, one of the most popular programs in game development is Autodesk Maya. A selection of tutorials on Maya is available on the manufacturer’s official site.
Master the programs in practice and create a portfolio at the same time.
Do more and more complex projects, gradually raising your level. Get the first orders you can on the freelance exchanges, such as Kwork. Payments there are often small, but even a novice can find customers. In parallel, try to get a job in a studio as an intern.
After gaining experience and a portfolio, post a resume on specialized sites, and respond to vacancies in companies. Some people initially choose to work as freelancers, without going through the step of working in a team. But it may be more productive to gain experience in the studio, and then switch to freelance if desired.
The university does not teach the specialty. Individual disciplines are studied in related fields, such as design or programming. From these spheres it is possible to come to animation, having pulled up missing knowledge.