Is The Animation Schools Higher Certificate in 2D Animation Accredited?

Yes, this qualification is accredited by the Council on Higher Education. The programme details are as follows: Abbreviation: HCert (2D Animation), SAQA ID: 124629, NQF Level: 5, Total Credits: 120, Minimum Duration: One Year full-time

Can I Study 2D Animation Part-Time While I Work?

The one-year Higher Certificate in 2D 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 Higher Certificate 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 Digital 2D Animation?

Our 2026 tuition fees for South African and other African students range between R65,000 and R70,000 (subject to your payment schedule). Tuition for international students costs R85,000, with the full amount due on registration. Tuition fees include free access to Toon Boom Harmony, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Storyboarder 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.

Do You Offer Financial Assistance for the 2D animation course?

The Animation School only awards internal scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, skill, and work ethic. For first-year students, we recommend exploring external funding opportunities including Student Hero, National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), Oasis Bursary Programme, MultiChoice Talent Factory, and Nestlé Bursary Programme. We encourage students to begin their funding search early and reach out to these organisations directly to explore the best options available.

What Animation Software Will I Use to complete the 2D animation course?

You will develop proficiency in the following software packages used by the animation industry: Toon Boom Harmony Premium (2D Animation Software), Adobe Photoshop (painting & texturing software), Adobe Premiere (video-editing software), Full Adobe Creative Cloud Access. Tuition fees include free access to the above-mentioned software. You will receive a full list and installation instructions upon registration.

What Computer Specs Do I Need to Study 2D Animation?

Because animation software is demanding, students need a powerful desktop computer to complete the Diploma in Digital Animation. Recommended (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). 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.

What Kind of Internet Connection Is Needed for learning animation online?

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.

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Get the skills you need for a successful career in the animation industry. Whether you’re starting your journey or looking to specialise, our programmes give you the skills, confidence, and portfolio to thrive in the global animation space.

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We’ve made a change to this programme.

We’re sorry to let you know that we’re currently pausing new enrolments for our Higher Certificate in 2D Animation.

We know that may be disappointing if this is the programme you had your eye on — but it doesn’t mean saying goodbye to 2D animation.

Our 3-Year Diploma in Digital Animation includes both 2D and 3D animation, giving you the opportunity to build strong traditional animation foundations while developing the broader creative and technical skills required by today’s animation industry.

So, if it was the 2D that brought you here, you’re still in the right place.

Take a look at our 3-Year Diploma in Digital Animation

Want to Learn More? Attend Our Next Open Day

Join our interactive two-hour Diploma in Digital Animation presentation

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