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All 2D Animation courses

Explore specialized 2D animation courses and industry mentorship to fast-track your career.
Overview

Ready to see your name in the credits? Learn 2D animation

Discover the perfect study option to match your skill level and career aspirations, whether you're a beginner or looking for advanced industry programs and accredited degrees.

Immerse yourself in the world of professional animation and learn professional techniques from veteran animators who have honed their skills at renowned studios like Disney, Dreamworks, Warner Bros, and Nickelodeon.

Our specialized 2D Animation courses provide a personalized education experience that will equip you with the necessary skills to thrive in your first job. 

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CG Spectrum is one of just 16 Toon Boom certified schools and the only 100% online 2D animation school. This means our students receive the highest quality education and learn the latest techniques used by major studios.

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Benefits

Why study at CG Spectrum

Get a more hands-on education with mentorship from top film and game experts, an industry-approved curriculum and a thriving creative community cheering you on.

By giving you access to the most talented artists in the industry, we help you to become well connected, trained and prepared for life beyond school.

What you get when studying at CG Spectrum:

  • Personalized job-focused training & career services
  • Private 1-on-1  or small group classes
  •  Weekly live call with your mentor + recorded video critiques
  • Supportive and active community of peers, alumni, and mentors
  • Flexible schedules and 100% online, study from anywhere!

As an online school with students and mentors in 90+ countries, we're proud to bring the industry to you – wherever you are in the world!

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Studios who hire our students

Our commitment to job-outcomes and focus on career development has helped graduates find work at studios all over the world.

Mentors

Learn directly from our experienced 2D animation specialists

Access mentoring sessions and live weekly calls with top film and game experts to master your technique. All classes are taught by established animators with years of experience working on films and video games at major studios.

Student Showcase

Explore student work and see what you can learn at CG Spectrum

Our students create high quality work that speaks for itself. We provide you with the tools and resources to help you build a portfolio that gets noticed.

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Learn more about 2D animation

Discover free 2D animation resources and articles to inspire you on your journey into the film and games industry

Frequently asked questions

FAQs about 2D animation

Is 2D animation hand drawn?

2D animation can be either hand drawn or computer-generated in a hand-drawn style. Traditional 2D animations were drawn frame-by-frame and transferred to clear sheets, called cels, for painting. This was a time-consuming process. Today 2D animations are created digitally using software like Toon Boom Harmony or Adobe After Effects.

Do I need to know how to draw to do 2D animation?

No, you don't need to know how to draw to do 2D animation. Many professional animators use software like Adobe Flash, After Effects or Toon Boom Harmony to animate. However, drawing is a handy skill for expressing ideas and creating original artwork for your animations, so it doesn't hurt to know how to draw!

Should I study 2D or 3D animation?

Choosing between 2D and 3D animation comes down to personal preference. 2D animation tends to suit people who are more artistic in nature, whereas 3D animation often suits those with a more technical mind. 

2D requires a large amount of illustration, as every frame needs to be drawn, either on a digital tablet or by hand. 3D Animation requires creating movement via 'rigs', where a 3D model is essentially given a skeleton that can be manipulated in a virtual 3D space.

Can I learn both 2D and 3D animation?

Yes you can. CG Spectrum offers beginner animation courses in both 2D and 3D animation, however it is not recommended to do both at the same time, unless you can dedicate a minimum of 20 hours per week for each course. 

What jobs can I get if I study 2D animation?

Studying 2D animation will prepare you to become a 2D animator, storyboard artist or clean up artist. Explore other animation jobs.