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This program is an introductory program that teaches the creation of basic 3D models, scenes, textures, lights and animations through hands-on exercises and projects.

With a heavy focus on portfolio development, this program will give you a solid skill set which can get you hired in any 3D studio. General 3D animators, modelers and texturers have the option of specializing in any area they please.

What is 3D? Frequently Asked Questions »

When you've finished this program, you will have the skills necessary to model, texture and light organic, architectural, and mechanical objects. You'll be able to create animated shorts with non-human characters. You will have the skills to create various special effects. And you will have a very solid base upon which to build the specialty of your choice.

Career Prospects

You could become a texturer or modeler, a light-specialist, an entry-level animator, or a special f/x artist. You could even be a set-designer for a virtual movie or television commercial.

3ds max is the preferred software for creating animation for television broadcast studios, and it has a large share of the market in film special effects. Most tv shows and commercials these days have some sort of special effects, and often they're created using 3D software - that could be your new job!

Salary Expectations

In Canada, basic 3D animators earn an average of CDN $36,774 [source: jobfutures.ca, a government website],

Across all of North America and all levels of experience, that average is US $65,107, and

A single experienced animator’s salary can be as high as US $86,250 [source: gamecareerguide.com].

Career Guidance Program

CD-ED is committed to helping you find employment in the field of your choice. In fact, we’ll start before you even begin as a student! If you call us today, your personal admissions representative will research the job market for this career in your city, and help you decide if this program is the right path for your future.

After graduation, we’ll help you find an interview with your prospective employer in the job market. And of course, your new up-to-date skills will put you at the top of any interviewer’s list!

Below: A student animation created as part of the portfolio design process in the 3D Animation diploma program.

Modeling, Texturing, Lighting, Animation & Rendering by Alex Eigner, Graduate

If you follow our registered course outline and put in the required hours, we guarantee your success. Below are some of the ways we ensure that you will graduate successfully.

 

Unlimited Instructor Support

You will have unlimited one-on-one instructor support via email, chat, online classroom webinars and toll-free phone calls throughout your entire program - and beyond.

Our instructors have industry experience and can help you understand how to conquer the job market before you go out into it.

You're never a number at CD-ED - our instructors and guidance counselor will take a personal interest in your progress and will be in touch with you constantly throughout the year, making sure everything is going well with your program and whatever of your home life you wish to share.

Learning Materials Included

Unlike traditional classrooms, you don't need to go out and buy your own textbooks. As part of your tuition, when you become a student you will have all textbooks and registered software shipped directly to your door. A full set of instructions and tutorials will be included, along with access to your customized online learning management system.

We include a “How to Study At Home” learning package free with your materials, and along with our exclusive Student Tracking System it will help you schedule your time to ensure a successful student experience.

Equipment Options

You have the option of a brand-new desktop computer on loan to facilitate your education. A computer is simply a tool, and we make sure you have the best tools available, running smoothly to allow you to learn under optimal conditions. And, as a graduation gift, the computer you choose will be yours to keep on the successful completion of your program. NOTE: Accepting computer equipment from CD-ED is optional – not mandatory.

More info about What You Get »

Modeling, Texturing, Lighting, & Rendering by Shawn Crowle, Graduate

 

Duration: 52 weeks, 1040 hours (Based on a 20-hour work week)

Total Hours	# of Weeks	Subject
60	3	Computer Concepts & Basic Communication
40	2	Windows
40	2	Internet Basics
120	6	Adobe Photoshop
220	11	3D Modeling
80	4	Materials & Maps
160	8	Animation
80	4	Special Effects
140	7	CG Lighting
100	5	Directed Project

Computer Concepts & Basic Communication

Review basic English structures and learn proper professional communication skills. Learn key terminology and technology associated with computers, including computer hardware and software, file management and network technology.

Windows

We'll teach you the workings of the latest Windows operating system, including using the desktop, managing files and folders, and using the Windows Help & Support.

Internet Basics

Provides a step-by-step introduction to all aspects of the Internet. Topics covered include browsers, searching techniques, and email.

Adobe Photoshop

Photoshop is a powerful imaging tool that is useful for creating textures for 3D models, and manipulating final renders. You’ll learn the basics of this software including layers, masks and photo restoration & repair.

3D Modeling

An introduction to the complex 3ds max software. You will also be given a comprehensive undertaking of modeling techniques and workflow.

Materials & Maps

Learn to use the material editor to create the textural skins for your models. An intermediate immersion into the techniques necessary to create original materials, maps and textures and applying them.

Animation

Learn the animation tools in 3ds Max, including Character Studio and IK animation. You will also learn the proper techniques for rendering a scene. Explore animation techniques such as keyframing, 3dsmax's graph editors, and using constraints & controllers. 

Special Effects

Learn to create realistic fire, earth, air and water effects without resorting to expensive plug-ins for the software. By learning the effects yourself, you will gain a greater understanding of how to specialize or  innovate new ones.

CG Lighting

Learn to create convincing CG lighting. Lighting is the one thing that makes or breaks every CG environment so you will be able to master the essential concepts and theoretical aspects to the tricks and techniques for a production environment.

Directed Project

A step-by-step presentation of guidelines and real-world inspiration for creating an online portfolio of work, geared towards earning you employment by showing a prospective client or employer your talent and experience.

When you've finished this program, you will have the skills necessary to model, texture and light organic, architectural, and mechanical objects. You'll be able to create animated shorts with non-human characters. You will have the skills to create various special effects. And you will have a very solid base upon which to build the specialty of your choice.

 

Modeling & Lighting by Alex Eigner, Graduate

 

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• 1.866.567.3010
• info@cd-ed.com
• Apply Now
• Request Information
• PDF Application Form

 

Jeni Hullett, Graduate

• “It was easy to apply, I had no problems getting my materials, and I am in constant communication with my instructors. I like CD-ED because it lets me have the freedom to work on my own, but help is always readily available if I need it. I can schedule my own hours to do my schoolwork, while still being able to do all of my normal day-to-day activities. ”

 

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Financing Available in the United Kingdom

Students in the United Kingdom are now eligible for financial assistance when applying to the Centre for Distance Education!
10-Oct-08

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