STUDY LEVEL
Vocational
TUITION
From $7,999 USD
DURATION
9 months
INTAKES
Monthly
DELIVERY MODE
Online
about the course
What will you learn?
In just 9 months, this VFX for beginners course will give you a solid foundation in 3D modeling, animation, and VFX, so you can get hands-on practice with each discipline and confidently decide which area you’d like to specialize in. You’ll learn VFX software used by top production studios all over the world, and start your journey into the industry!
CG Spectrum is an online visual effects school where you are personally mentored by some of the best film and video game artists. You’ll be guided step-by-step through the entire VFX post-production process, develop a solid understanding of CGI and motion graphics, get hands-on experience, and graduate with original work for your demo reel.
student gallery
Graduate with an outstanding portfolio
Be mentored by VFX artists with real-world experience
Learn Maya, Substance Painter, Houdini & Nuke
Get the latest skills studios are hiring for
Choose 1-on-1 or small group classes (max 4 students)
course structure
term 1
Dive right into your VFX course with 3D modeling, animation, and visual effects exercises using Maya, Substance Painter, and Houdini. Practice setting up a proper workflow–a vital skill you’ll use throughout your career. Have a go at creating a realistic animation using the 12 Principles of Animation, then move onto basic 3D props. Finish with portfolio pieces including animation walk cycles, character jumps, 3D models such as stylized props or weapons, plus a space rover or robot model.
Animation Foundations (Stream A)
- How to navigate software used by VFX studios
- Animate and build 3D models from scratch
- Create believable motion in your animation
- Retopolgize hi-res objects for clean line flow
3D Modeling Foundations (Stream B)
- How to set up proper workflows in Maya
- Retopolgize objects for clean line flow
- Create 3D assets from film & games
- Texture using Substance Painter
term 2
Build on your animation and 3D modeling foundation knowledge with more complex projects. Start animating characters interacting with their surroundings and see how they respond to physical force by creating combat actions for film and games. Next, you’ll learn all about human anatomy and create your own 3D character with clothing, hair, and accessories. Finally, using a concept design as a guide, you’ll create a realistic 3D environment with assets like buildings, trees, rocks, and props.
Intermediate Animation (Stream A)
- How to animate action sequences
- Body mechanics for animation
- Create 3D environments from scratch
- Texture, light and render 3D assets
Intermediate 3D Modeling (Stream B)
- How to create 3D characters & environments
- Set up a basic scene for rendering
- Model organic & hard surface assets
- Apply lighting & rendering techniques
term 3
Your VFX training is not complete until you can confidently produce stunning visual effects for the film in Houdini. Learn how to create dynamic particle effects and seamlessly implement them into a scene with lighting and rendering. By the end of this course, you will have a hands-on understanding of the VFX pipeline, several portfolio pieces, and a clearer idea of which specialty you wish to pursue in the film industry.
What will you learn?
- How to create unreal visual effects for film
- Use simulation and particle techniques
- Light and composite your shot
- Professionally present your work
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
What do you need to apply?
- Basic computer skills & min. computer specs
start your creative career today
Discover more about
this course
Because you are interested in this course
You might also like…

Do you need help from one of our student counselors?
Book a FREE consultation with one of our friendly Student Enrolment Advisors