3D Modeling for Beginners Taught by Industry Pros

Learn 3D modeling and become a pro at creating realistic props, characters plus environments for blockbuster films or video games!

A 3D Modeler plays an integral role in a film or game studio. They create computer generated representations of objects or characters in 3D space which are then animated or have visual effects applied to them. It’s a fun, creative career path where no two days are the same!

Introduction to 3D Modeling Overview

In CG Spectrum’s online 3D modeling for beginners course, you’ll create your own 3D assets, including characters, props and environments!

Learn directly from industry mentors who have worked at studios like Disney, ILM and Weta. Delve into the theory and technical aspects of 3D modeling, and gain hands on experience using Maya (industry standard software used by top studios).

As an online 3D modeling course, you have the flexibility to study anytime, anywhere. Log in for live video classes and complete weekly assignments on topics like hard surface modeling, texturing, and high poly vs. low poly workflows. Your mentor will give feedback using your project files while you watch live, creating a personalized experience like no other.

On graduation, you may wish to continue your journey with the Advanced 3D Modeling Diploma.

Our courses are designed to get you job-ready. Your mentor will let you in on the latest techniques studios expect a Junior Artist to know. Get the edge over the competition. Enroll now!

Start Date

February 3rd, 2020

Duration

6 Months

Delivery Method

Weekly online classes via Zoom along with recorded feedback, e-mail support and a student community

Software

A student educational license of Maya and Substance Painter is provided to all students for free

Course Load

20 hrs/week

Skill Level

Beginner

Prerequisites

Course Curriculum

TERM 01

Intro to 3D Modeling Foundations

introduction-to-3d-modeling-trimester-01-character-modeling

Learn 3D modeling for beginners starting with the essentials: navigating Maya’s interface, understanding professional workflows, commonly used tools and building 3D assets from scratch. Identify differences between film and video game models by learning high poly 3D modeling techniques, then converting it for Unreal game engine, and adding textures in Substance Painter.

Learn how to:

  • Set up proper workflows in Maya
  • Retopolgize objects for clean line flow
  • Import your work into Unreal Engine 4
  • Texture using Substance Painter

Weekly Breakdown

  1. Introduction
  2. Blocking an Asset with Reference
  3. Model Finalizing & Cleanup
  4. Re-Topology Basics
  5. Project 2a with Deformers
  6. Project 2b and Presentation
  7. Hard Surface High Poly Techniques for Film
  8. Hard Surface Low Poly Techniques for Games
  9. UV Theory
  10. UV Layout & Texture Preparation
  11. Introduction: Substance Painter
  12. Texturing & Presentation

*Curriculum subject to change based on industry input

TERM 02

Character & Environment Modeling

Character & Environment Modeling

Build on your foundation with more complex exercises! Learn 3D character modeling for film and video games using human anatomy basics. Create a game ready, fully textured 3D character with hair, clothing, and accessories. Next, you’ll get an environment concept design and use it to build a 3D environment from scratch. Texture and light, import into Unreal Engine, and show it off!

Learn how to:

  • Create 3D characters & environments
  • Set up a basic scene for rendering
  • Model organic & hard surface assets
  • Apply lighting & rendering techniques

Weekly Breakdown

  1. Introduction: Character Modeling
  2. Character Modeling
  3. Clothing & Accessories
  4. Character UV & Texturing
  5. Hair in Maya
  6. Character Presentation
  7. Introduction: Environment Modeling
  8. Environment Basics
  9. Procedural Basics
  10. Environment Detailing
  11. Photogrammetry
  12. Environment Presentation

*Curriculum subject to change based on industry input

LOOK INSIDE

HOW IT WORKS?

Meet Your Mentors

Steve Hubbard

Steve Hubbard

Mentor of 3D Modeling

Known for

Lego Ninjago Movie

Jeremy Chinn

Jeremy Chinn

Dept. Head of 3D Modeling

Known for

Big Hero 6

Hong Chan Lim

Hong Chan Lim

Mentor of 3D Modeling

Known for

Overwatch: Wildstar

Frank Alvarez

Frank Alvarez

Mentor of 3D Modeling

Known for

Batman vs. Superman

Alumni Testimonials

I have always dreamed about breaking into the game industry and since graduating from CG Spectrum my dream has become a reality. My mentor was always pushing me in order to become industry-ready and was always available for feedback. Studying in an online capacity made for a more dedicated and uninterrupted learning experience.

Stephen Clark 3D Modeler - Plastic Wax

Learning from mentors who work in the industry is really valuable. CG Spectrum offers this and a lot more. The support you get during the course doesn’t end when you graduate. They give you the opportunity to show your work to the most impressive studios around, get direct feedback from them and help you to understand what they are really hiring for.

Esteban Ariza 3D Modeler - Method Studios

I moved from another school as CG Spectrum offered a more specific program for my needs. Let me assure you that it was the best move I have ever made. Mentors are current industry professionals, so you know that techniques are relevant, and I honestly believe that these guys are in it to see you succeed.

Danny Dore 3D Modeler - Animal Logic

I got a job offer at a major feature film studio before even graduating! Studying at CG Spectrum gave me the opportunity to network with industry artists while I was learning and coupled with the amazing course I was able to secure a position in the industry. Now I'm working on amazing projects in my dream job!

Andi Edirisinghe 3D Modeler - Method Studios

Studios Who Hire Our Alumni

Studio
Studio
Studio

The CG Spectrum Advantage

Flexible Scheduling

Whether studying full-time or working around a busy schedule, CG Spectrum’s virtual learning model allows you to study when you want, where you want.

Industry Mentors

Learn from highly experienced and passionate mentors who are actively working in the industry on major feature films and AAA video games.

Job Ready Skills

Our specialized, custom-built digital art courses and hands-on teaching method ensure the skills you gain are exactly those that studios are looking for.

Payment Plans

Your education is an investment. We offer various payment options to help you pursue your passion, hone your craft, and start working sooner.

Ready to Start Something Great?

Tuition & Study Options

Small Class Option

If you enjoy learning with others and sharing ideas, small group classes are for you! Fun, engaging and capped at 5 students max, this is an affordable way to learn 3D modeling from top industry mentors. Ideal if you thrive in a collaborative environment and would like to start building your peer network while you learn. While there is some flexibility with class times, if your schedule is rather busy, you may want to consider 1-on-1 mentorship.

MONTHLY

$650

6 x payments

 
PER TERM

$1750

2 x payments

(Save 10%)
UPFRONT

$2900

1 x payments

(Save 25%)

1-On-1 Private Option

Progress faster with 1-on-1 mentorship! Private tuition offers a higher level of individual attention and more flexibility to schedule classes around work and family commitments. Your mentor can also customize the 3D modeling for beginners course based on your strengths and interests. This option is perfect for those looking to change careers to get into the industry, or established artists looking to upgrade skills or change specialties.

MONTHLY

$850

6 x payments

 
PER TERM

$2290

2 x payments

(Save 10%)
UPFRONT

$3800

1 x payments

(Save 25%)

Other Courses You Might Like

Introduction to

3D Animation Course

Beginner ⋅ 6 Months

View Course

Introduction to

Concept Art & Illustration

Beginner ⋅ 6 Months

View Course

Foundations for

Visual Effects Diploma

Beginner ⋅ 10 Months

View Course