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!
Why study VFX at CG Spectrum:
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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.
Enjoy a personalized education experience like no other with unrivalled support and feedback from a mentor who is invested in your success. On graduation, you can further your career training with an advanced course in your chosen discipline.
Certificate
36 weeks
40 hrs weekly
Intermediate
Basic computer skills & min. computer specs
Weekly online classes, feedback and support
Maya, Substance Painter, Houdini, Nuke
N/A
Specialized expert-led visual effects programs to help you build job skills and a competitive edge
Plan your studies around your work and family commitments
Learn from mentors who have worked on major films and games
Build practical, relevant job skills that studios are looking for
Options to help you pursue your passion and start working sooner
Dive right in to 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)
3D Modeling Foundations (Stream B)
Animation Foundations (Stream A)
3D Modeling Foundations (Stream B)
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)
Intermediate 3D Modeling (Stream B)
Intermediate Animation (Stream A)
Intermediate 3D Modeling (Stream B)
*Curriculum subject to change based on industry input
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.
All VFX classes are taught by industry mentors with years of experience working on films and video games at major studios around the world
Alex is a highly experienced senior animator and supervisor whose credits include: The Adventures of Puss in Boots, Monsters Vs. Aliens and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Dept. Head of Foundations
Known for The Adventures of Puss in Boots
Ben's worked on high-profile commercials and Unreal Engine VR experiences for projects like Game of Thrones, Interstellar and Ready Player One.
Read full bioMentor of Houdini FX
Known for Interstellar VR
Justin has brought dozens of games to life in his 2-decade career. Credits include Tony Hawk, Mortal Kombat, and other AAA titles like Singularity and Stranglehold.
Read full bioMentor of Foundations
Known for Mortal Kombat Franchise
Mentor of Foundations
Known for The Cleansing Hour
Mentor of Foundations
Known for Bridgerton
In his 25 year career, Dave's worked as a 3D artist, and concept artist, art and creative director at studios like Framestore, LVTHN, EA and clients like Disney, Marvel, Nickelodeon to name a few.
Read full bioMentor of Foundations
Known for Tony Hawk Ride
With almost 2 decades in the industry, VFX Supervisor Jorge has more than 50 credits to his name including Game of Thrones, Wonder Woman and Tomb Raider.
Read full bioMentor of Foundations
Known for Umbrella Academy
For the past 7 years, Billy's been a resident artist at Luma Pictures, working on films like Godzilla vs Kong, Spider-Man: Far from Home, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, and Deadpool.
Read full bioMentor of Foundations
Known for Godzilla vs Kong
Mentor of Foundations
Known for Bleeding Edge
The most affordable way to learn from top industry mentors in a fun, collaborative environment, while still getting plenty of personalized feedback.
Progress faster and enjoy more flexiblity with private mentorship. Ideal for busy schedules, career-changers, or artists upgrading skills or changing specialties.
(9 x payments)
Save 10%
(3 x payments)
Save 20%
(1 x payment)
(9 x payments)
Save 10%
(3 x payments)
Save 20%
(1 x payment)
For this course, you will need basic computer skills and a computer that meets the minimum specifications (see next question).
Software:
Students can sign up for an educational license for Maya, Houdini and Substance Painter.
Hardware:
You will need a dedicated graphics card and a computer that meets the minimum requirements for Autodesk Maya and Substance Painter.
With a focus on portfolio preparation, we help students build their competitive edge with high quality work that gets noticed. See what they are creating.
From the get-go, you’re thrown into hands-on projects that have you itching to learn more.
This doesn’t feel like online studying. The mentors are always there to help and the live chats and forum help you get to know your fellow students who are also more than willing to give insightful feedback. Every step of the way you’re growing into a wonderful community.
I’m not only learning the essentials of VFX but also key networking tips from my mentor.
I started CG Spectrum with no experience in visual effects. In my opinion, the education with CG Spectrum is the closest to giving me actual industry experience since I’m working alongside an industry vet whilst being taught the fundamentals of my trade. I can comfortably say I have more of a "peer to peer" relationship rather than "teacher to student", making it really easy to share my work and expect solid criticism.
I landed a job immediately after finishing the course.
When I started CG Spectrum's animation program, I wasn't sure what to expect. Now, I can surely tell that choosing CG Spectrum was the best decision I've ever made. My mentors were incredibly knowledgeable, dedicated and supportive.
The mentors are extremely helpful and knowledgeable.
Prior to enrolling at CG Spectrum's VFX course, I had no experience in creating VFX or using Houdini at all. By the end of the 3rd semester, I was quite comfortable in using Houdini for most simulations, using VEX in place of regular nodes and creating procedural assets.
I highly recommend signing up with CG Spectrum!
I was looking for a final push to bump my skills and finally start applying for jobs as an artist. Shortly after finishing my Advanced 3D Modeling Course I landed my first job as Junior Environment Artist, which was my dream!
CG Spectrum seemed too good to be true. Looking back, it was the best decision.
Every mentor and staff member has been so hands-on and directly involved in my learning. Co-Directors of top box office movies and supervisors of major Netflix TV shows are giving me feedback on my projects. Students also have access to a strong community, and an awesome career class to prepare you for your dream job.