Diploma in Digital Animation

Gain the skills animation studios need. This diploma blends creativity and technical training with hands-on production experience, preparing you to step straight into an animation job after graduating.

Enquire now Download prospectus

Program

Your Path to a Career
in Computer Animation

This programme prepares you for the real world of animation. You’ll build strong creative and technical skills across the full production pipeline, from concept to post-production. In your third year, you’ll produce a short film for a team project and gain real studio experience. You’ll graduate with all the skills to bring your creative ideas to life, not to mention a professional showreel that gets you hired.

First Year

This year covers the core skills of animation. You’ll learn key principles, software, and storytelling methods while gaining a solid foundation in both 2D and 3D animation. You’ll be introduced to each stage of the animation pipeline and explore the different paths a career in animation can take.

Introduction to Context and Story

Introduction to Visual Development

Introduction to Technical Artistry

Introduction to Animation

Second Year

This year focuses on 3D character design and animation. It covers every aspect of 3D character creation, including concept development, modelling, texturing, surfacing, and rigging. You’ll learn how to create realistic worlds for your characters to inhabit through look development and compositing. You’ll also practice screenwriting and storyboarding to refine your storytelling skills.

Story and Context

Visual Development

Technical Artistry

Animation

Third Year

This year focuses on preparing students for work in a professional animation studio environment. You’ll specialise in two areas of production, collaborate to produce a short film, and gain feedback from industry pros. You’ll also learn vital business skills, prepare a professional CV and showreel, and gain real-world experience through an industry placement.

Pre-Production

Production Specialisation

Animated Short Film

Professional Development

How to apply

Your Step-by-Step Application Guide

Here’s how to apply, from preparing your portfolio to submitting your documents.

Apply now Watch the video

Step one

Prepare Your Portfolio

All applicants are required to present a portfolio of artwork. Your portfolio must include:

One six-panel comic strip showing how to apply to The Animation School (download the template).

Six to twelve additional original artworks you’ve personally created in the past three years.  

You can include pieces created in any medium: illustrations, paintings, graphic design, sculptures, digital artworks, animations, or any other medium you feel showcases your creative skills. 

Your portfolio will be assessed against the following criteria: 

• Overall impression
• Proportions
• Technique
• Shading
• Storytelling (comic strip) 

No traced, copied, or AI-generated work will be accepted.

Step two

Compile Your Portfolio

Scan or photograph your artworks (including the comic strip) and compile your portfolio into a single PDF document.  

You may include links to any short films or animations you’ve created, but this is not a requirement.

Step three

Write a Letter of Motivation

Write a one-page (A4) motivation letter telling us why you want to study at The Animation School.

Step four

Complete the Application Form

Once you have compiled your portfolio, click any ‘Apply Now’ button on this page and complete the online application form. You can save and continue later if you need to.  

Check to make sure you’ve completed all the fields in the application form. Then, upload the following:

Your letter of motivation

Your portfolio PDF (including the comic strip)

Your national senior certificate, academic transcript, or equivalent international qualification

An ID photo (in colour)

Step five

Attend the Interview

You will be notified via email whether you have been accepted or not within two weeks of submitting your application.  

If your application is accepted, you’ll be invited to an online interview using Microsoft Teams. A successful interview means you can officially register and pay your deposit to secure your spot.

Online offering

Study Animation Online

Not near a campus? No problem! You can complete the full three-year Diploma in Digital Animation online.

You’ll follow the exact same curriculum as on-campus students, with access to the same expert lecturers, practical projects, and industry experience.  

Get the same industry-recognised animation training—from anywhere.

Learn more

Testimonials

What Graduates Say About The Animation School

"I got to meet and grow with so many talented people,

as well as learn from some amazing and passionate teachers. The Animation School set the foundation that would allow me to jumpstart my career as an Animator. I would definitely recommend The Animation School to anyone who wants to learn animation."

Jesse Sumares

Alumni at The Animation school

"Studying at The Animation School was a really cool experience.

The academic staff take great care of their students, while still maintaining an excellent level of course content. They provided us with a lot of breathing room to do our own thing, yet always made sure that the fundamentals were being drilled in. I learned a lot and I had a blast doing it."

Gerhard van der Merwe

Alumni at The Animation school

"As an Alumni, I managed to secure employment within my area of study

thanks to the amazing networking opportunities the college’s industry day provided me. My second-year lecturer in particular has such passion for the skills she was teaching and certainly passed on that passion to her students too."

Justin Pedersen

Alumni at The Animation School

"The networking events such as the Animation Exchange and Industry Day,

have proven integral in my career as they have delivered a host of opportunities. I owe my knowledge and confidence as an artist to the support received from the industry professionals who lecture at the college. It is one of the few places where students find a safe haven to express themselves among like-minded individuals."

Alison Parker

Alumni at The Animation school

"The Animation school is a really amazing place to study animation,

I would highly recommend it, if one wanted to go into the animation industry as a career, it's the best possible start one can get in animation, and leads you into the industry comfortably, with a really good set of skills."

Keano Smith

Alumni at The Animation School

"Through The Animation School and my incredible lecturers guided me

and nurtured my strengths which lead me to pursuing them in the industry. I thoroughly enjoyed the external workshops that gave me insight to the industry. It will be a lifelong passion and purpose that I can invest into. The Animation School really does give this opportunity to each and every student. It is a very special gift."

Christine Le Clezio

Alumni at The Animation School

"I thoroughly enjoyed my 3 years at The Animation School.

It was some of my bestyears. I learned a lot as an artist and person, and I am grateful for the opportunity I had at The Animation School."

Aman Goshalia-Naran

Alumni at The Animation School

"I think TAS is a good place to learn and grow as an artist,

especially for people who are not sure what they want to do in the industry TAS gives us a good understanding of the pipeline and how to do well in the industry, I believe TAS has the potential to further become one of the best schools in the world in terms of animation and rise further above it's current position."

Mthuthuzeli Ngcobondwane

Alumni at The Animation School

"I got to meet and grow with so many talented people,

Jesse Sumares

Alumni at The Animation school

"Studying at The Animation School was a really cool experience.

Gerhard van der Merwe

Alumni at The Animation school

"As an Alumni, I managed to secure employment within my area of study

Justin Pedersen

Alumni at The Animation School

"The networking events such as the Animation Exchange and Industry Day,

Alison Parker

Alumni at The Animation school

"The Animation school is a really amazing place to study animation,

Keano Smith

Alumni at The Animation School

"Through The Animation School and my incredible lecturers guided me

Christine Le Clezio

Alumni at The Animation School

"I thoroughly enjoyed my 3 years at The Animation School.

It was some of my bestyears. I learned a lot as an artist and person, and I am grateful for the opportunity I had at The Animation School."

Aman Goshalia-Naran

Alumni at The Animation School

"I think TAS is a good place to learn and grow as an artist,

Mthuthuzeli Ngcobondwane

Alumni at The Animation School

Students Artworks

Work by Our
Digital Animation Students

Julia Marx

2024

Personality Poses

1st Year

Tayla Coetzee

2024

Character Study

2nd Year

Mohau Ngobeni

2024

Colour Models

1st Year

Can Richards

2024

Character Study

2nd Year

Charlene Bartlett

2024

Colour Models

1st Year

Alexa Wium

2024

Character Study

2nd Year

More Than a Sword

2024

Short Film

3rd Year

Somila Nyoka

2024

Character Study

2nd Year

Trent Le Roux

2024

Colour Models

1st Year

Q&A

Do You Have Questions About the Diploma in Digital Animation?

Find answers to common questions about the Diploma in Digital Animation.
Still have questions?

Download the prospectus

Is This Diploma Accredited?

Yes, this qualification is accredited by the Council on Higher Education.

The programme details are as follows:

• Abbreviation: Dip (Digital Animation)
• SAQA ID: 71756
• NQF Level: 6
• Total Credits: 360
• Minimum Duration: Three years full-time

Can I Study Animation Part-Time While I Work?

The three-year Diploma in Digital Animation is a full-time programme with
live classes, regular assignments, and collaborative activities scheduled
during the day (typically between 08:30 and 16:30).

We discourage diploma students from working part-time during the term,
as this programme’s workload is very demanding.

However, we offer a variety of short online animation courses for anyone
who wants to learn animation skills but is unable to attend classes full-time.

What Does It Cost to Study Computer Animation?

Our 2026 tuition fees for South African and other African students range
between R123,900 and R135,000 (subject to your payment schedule).
Tuition for international students costs R157,300, with the full amount due on registration.

The tuition fees for the online diploma are the same as the on-campus
programme, as both offer the same high-quality qualification, academic
support, and access to expert lecturers.

Tuition fees include free access to Autodesk Maya, Adobe Suite, and
Toonboom Harmony, but exclude any compulsory books, other software,
digital drawing equipment and/or removable hard drives required to
complete day-to-day responsibilities. All students should budget an
additional R3,000 per year for these expenses.

Download prospectus

Do You Offer Financial Assistance?

The Animation School only awards internal scholarships in second and third year to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, skill, and work ethic.

For first-year students, we recommend exploring the following external
funding opportunities:

• Student Hero is a funding platform that connects students with
multiple funding providers. You can apply online, check your
affordability, and get guidance on student loan options.

- Email: hello@studenthero.co.za
- Tel: 061 585 3490

• National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) offers bursaries to
talented South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Applications typically open in July for a limited two-month window.

• Oasis Bursary Programme provides support for students through its
award-winning investment firm.

• MultiChoice Talent Factory offers full tuition bursaries for students
entering second year or higher at qualifying institutions.

• Nestlé Bursary Programme is focused on upskilling young talent
through education support.

We encourage students to begin their funding search early and reach out
to these organisations directly to explore the best options available.

See our Prospectus for more information about financial assistance and
bursaries.

What Animation Software Will I Use?

You will develop proficiency in the following software packages used by the animation industry:

● Autodesk Maya (3D animation software)
● Adobe Photoshop (painting & texturing software)
● Adobe Premiere (video-editing software)
● Adobe After Effects (special effects software)
● Adobe Substance Painter (painting & texturing software)
● Toonboom (2D animation software)
● Arnold (rendering software)
● Nuke (compositing software)
● ZBrush (sculpting software)

Tuition fees include free access to Autodesk Maya, Adobe Suite, and
Toonboom Harmony. You will receive a full list and installation instructions
upon registration.

What Computer Specs Do I Need to Study Animation?

Because animation software is demanding, students need a powerful
desktop computer to complete the Diploma in Digital Animation. Below are
the minimum and recommended specifications:

Minimum (Mid-Range) Requirements:

● Intel i7 processor
● 32GB RAM
● 512GB SSD (for fast performance)
● 1TB hard drive (for storage)
● 4GB graphics card
● 27-inch monitor
● Microsoft Windows
● Gaming keyboard and mouse (for durability and responsiveness)

Recommended (High-End) Specifications:

● Intel i9 processor
● 64GB RAM
● 512GB SSD + 1TB hard drive
● 6GB graphics card
● 27-inch monitor
● Microsoft Windows
● Gaming keyboard and mouse

We strongly recommend using a Windows desktop setup rather than a
laptop, as it offers better performance and reliability for the intensive
software used throughout the course. Investing in the right equipment will
ensure students can fully engage with the course content and avoid
unnecessary technical issues.

What Kind of Internet Connection Is Needed?

To participate fully in the online programmes, you need a stable and
reliable broadband internet connection. This is especially important for
attending live classes, uploading assignments, and accessing video
content.

We recommend the following minimum internet speeds:

● Download Speed: 10–25 Mbps
● Upload Speed: 3–5 Mbps

A wired connection (LAN cable) is often more stable than Wi-Fi, especially
during live sessions. We also recommend having an uncapped data plan if
possible, as animation software and media files can be large.

Before your programme starts, you will receive a tech checklist and support to ensure your setup is ready for online learning.

How Are Students Assessed?

All assessments in the diploma are designed to evaluate a student's
understanding of animation principles, creative thinking, and technical
skills—and all of them can be completed fully online, without the need to
attend campus.

We use a variety of assessment methods to help students demonstrate their learning and prepare for the demands of the animation industry. These include:

● Essays and reports to develop written communication, research, and
reflection skills

● Creative writing assignments such as short stories and scripts to
strengthen storytelling and narrative design

● Practical projects such as hands-on animation tasks where students
apply what they’ve learned to create original work

● Portfolios or collections of work that show growth and development
over time

● Presentations where students pitch ideas or showcase work, either
live or pre-recorded

● Quizzes and tests to check students’ understanding of key concepts
and theory

● Peer and self-assessment to encourage students to evaluate their
own work and provide constructive feedback to others

These assessments are submitted through our online platforms and are marked by lecturers, sometimes with input from peers or external reviewers. Feedback is provided regularly to support ongoing learning and
improvement.

Do Graduates Easily Find Careers in Animation?

Yes, 80-90% of our graduates find secure employment in the local
animation industry, and several have gone on to work in the US, Canada,
and Europe.

Does South Africa Have a Strong Animation Industry?

Yes, South Africa has a well-established and ever-growing animation
industry. It is home to several award-winning animation studios producing
world-class content, including Triggerfish Animation Studios, Mind’s Eye
Creative, Sunrise Animation Studios, and Hidden Hand Studios.

Is an Animation Diploma the Same as an Animation Degree?

A diploma and a degree are both higher education qualifications, but they
serve different purposes.

An animation degree is often more academic and theory-based. Our Diploma in Digital Animation is practical and job-focused. It’s designed to get you working in the industry as soon as you graduate. You’ll learn by doing: creating characters, producing short films, and working in a team just like in a real animation studio.

This hands-on training is exactly what many studios look for when hiring. In fact, employers often tell us our graduates are ready to contribute from day one.

Completing the Diploma in Digital Animation also qualifies you to apply for
an Advanced Diploma or a Bachelor’s Degree in Animation or a related field. You may be able to transfer credits for advanced entry into a Bachelor’s Degree in Animation, although some programmes may have extra requirements or require a bridging course.

Do Students Have Access to Facilitators Outside of Class Time?

Yes, students have access to their facilitators outside of scheduled class
times. While facilitators may be busy with other classes or meetings during the day, they are committed to supporting students and will respond as
soon as possible.

Students can contact lecturers and facilitators via:

● Discussion forums on Moodle for general questions and peer
support

● Chat groups on Microsoft Teams for quick updates and informal
discussions

● Email for direct communication

● One-on-one appointments, which can be scheduled when more in-
depth support is needed

We encourage students to make use of these channels and reach out
whenever they need help or feedback.

Will There Be Online Communities or Forums to Interact With Classmates?

Yes! There are class-based Microsoft Teams chat groups and Moodle discussion forums where students can share ideas, ask questions, and stay in touch with their classmates outside of the live sessions.

In addition to class-based chat groups and discussion forums, we’re committed to creating a vibrant online community where students can connect, collaborate, and support one another.

We’re also working on launching a range of online community initiatives, including:

● Social meetups and game nights to help students relax and get to know each other

● Interest-based channels (e.g., sketching, gaming, movies, tech tips)

● Creative challenges and virtual exhibitions to celebrate student work and talent

We believe that building friendships, sharing experiences, and feeling part of a supportive community are just as important as academic success—and we’ll provide the space for students to do just that, even in a virtual environment.

Can International Students Apply?

Yes, international students are welcome to apply for the online Diploma in
Digital Animation. Please note that live classes are scheduled in South
African Standard Time (SAST), so time zone differences may affect your
availability for sessions.

If you have foreign qualifications (including but not limited to Cambridge,
GED, or homeschooling), you must submit them to the South African
Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for evaluation before applying. This is to
confirm whether you meet the minimum general admission requirements
for higher education in South Africa.

We’ll support you through this process and provide guidance if you need
assistance with the evaluation.

Can I Transfer From Another Animation Programme?

Yes. You can apply for credit transfer through our Credit Accumulation and
Transfer (CAT) process.

To be considered, the modules you’ve completed must cover similar content, learning outcomes, and assessments as those in our diploma. You’ll need to submit an official academic record, module descriptions, and a reference letter from your current institution.

Please note: no more than 50% of the total credits can be transferred, and each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. CAT applications close on 31 October 2025.

Can I Apply if I Don’t Meet the Academic Requirements but Have Work Experience?

Yes. If you’re 23 or older and have relevant experience in the field, you may apply through our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process. You’ll need to follow the usual application steps and request the RPL application when you submit your portfolio. Applications for RPL also close on 31 October 2025.

Our school

Learn Animation Your Way,
on Campus or Online

Study animation online or attend one of our state-of-the-art campuses in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Cape Town Campus

Located in trendy Woodstock, our Cape Town campus provides students with 24-hour access to an acting space, a sound recording room, and high-spec computers loaded with industry-relevant software.

Learn more

Johannesburg Campus

Situated in a secure complex in Randburg, our world-class Johannesburg campus is easily accessible using public transport and offers ample off-street parking. It also offers an acting space, a sound recording room, and fully-equipped computers.

Learn more

Online Learning

Developed by industry experts and animation academics, our online courses allow students to master in-demand animation techniques from anywhere.

Learn more

careers

Pursue Careers in the Animation Industry and Beyond

Graduates of the diploma are qualified to work not just in animation but in a wide range of professions. Examples of industries and roles where animation skills are in high demand include:

Film, TV, and Gaming: Character design, storyboarding, visual effects (VFX), and motion graphics

Advertising and Marketing: Animated ads, explainer videos, and branded content

Architecture and Engineering: Virtual tours, 3D visualisations, and process simulations

Medical and Health Sciences: Animated procedures, simulations, and training tools

Forensics and Law Enforcement: Crime scene reconstructions and visual evidence presentation