Animation is one of the most cutting-edge and technologically advanced fields with a wide range of professional possibilities. Whether you envision yourself as a character designer for your favourite production company or animating for video games, the program you choose is your path to get there and achieve that success. There are various options on the market for best 3D animation courses, all with different aspects which can be overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which 3D animation course will be best for your career.

Live instruction

There are two options if you value having live instruction. Traditionally, 3D animation courses are taken on campus. This allows you to use industry-grade tools equipped with the technology and instruction necessary to complete your program. There is more accountability in a classroom setting as you must follow assignment guidelines and deadlines which fosters the hard-working attitude you need to succeed in the animation industry. You would also receive hands-on support from your instructor, who would be readily available to answer any questions. 

Online options are also available. You could still work with a live instructor from your home and receive hands-on learning similar to that you’d get in class. These programs range from around 8-16 months, delivered through a virtual video-conferencing software like Zoom. However, you may have to buy expensive industry software up front and possibly upgrade your computer. In some cases, the school may lend you a computer or allow you to connect to theirs wirelessly. 

Either way, after a 12 month program, you will learn 3D modelling, animation, character design and other industry-standard skills from esteemed professionals. You will have everything you need to compile an impressive portfolio to catch the attention of major studios.

Prerecorded video

The length of online and offline 3D Animation courses may vary, as well as the platforms they are taught on. There are many great lower-cost, virtual options out there for people looking to dip their feet into animation. There are simple online courses offered by Adobe, Maya, and other companies.

If you wish to learn animation from the comfort of your own home, at your own pace, with no deadlines then online video-based courses could be more comfortable for you. If you are a self-sufficient learner and don’t need accountability provided by a live instructor, then you could try out an online program and do your work with a personalized timeline. Most of these online programs from various websites are pre-recorded videos with less instructor direction. So if you have a question you will have to figure it out on your own.

For most beginners, pre-recorded video is not ideal as 2D and 3D animation has a learning curve and once things get difficult you may lose motivation and classes may just sit on your computer untouched.

Qualified mentors to learn best 3D Animation course

Networking and forming relationships in the industry is incredibly advantageous for employment opportunities after your education. Finding a program where you have the opportunity to work one-on-one with instructors that are currently excelling in the industry is important for success post-grad.

To get to know who you are working with, you should search the IMDB’s or Linkedin’s of listed instructors to learn about who will be shaping your education. Your teachers are one of the best opportunities you will have to form connections in the field. Many of your teachers could be a lead to a job or opportunity in your chosen field. Developing your animation skills with individuals who know the latest and cutting-edge techniques as well as contacts in the
industry will ensure professional and personal success. 

Also keep an eye on dedicated 2D/3D Animation and VFX jobs website. You will come to know that which skills are in demand, as per current scenario. It will also help you to narrow down your preferred list of studios, world wide or in your local area.

Student success

The best 3D animation course is the one that will lead you to accomplish your goals. To see where various school alumni end up animating, check out the “student” section on various school websites. You will find student testimonials that will give you insightful, first-hand perspectives into various programs and where they ended up once completing. The social media platforms of schools you are researching will also provide a sense of how programs and instructors lead their students to succeed.

If you are interested in seeing what kind of entry-level 3D animation jobs are out there, check out this article.

Kennedy Randall is a Content Writer at InFocus Film School.