Intro to
3D Animation Course

Want to step into the world of 3D animation? Over seven weeks, you’ll be taught key 3D animation techniques and gain hands-on experience with Autodesk Maya, the animation software used by industry professionals. You’ll learn how to:

Make simple 3D animations using Autodesk Maya
Create 3D models of characters and environments
Add textures and materials to your models
Use simple rigging to animate 3D characters
Light scenes, simulate effects, and render scenes

About the course

Registration Form

Programme

What’s Covered in the
Intro to 3D Animation Course

Step into the world of 3D animation with guided lessons in Autodesk Maya. You’ll model characters and environments, add textures and materials, and create movement through basic rigging and animation.

Introduction to Autodesk Maya

Get started with Autodesk Maya, the industry-standard 3D animation software. Learn the interface, key tools, and basic workflows you’ll use to create and animate 3D models and environments.

3D Modelling

Create 3D models of characters, props, and environments. Use Maya’s modelling tools to shape and refine your designs.

Texturing and Materials

Add textures and materials to the surfaces of your 3D models to add realism and bring them to life. Learn the basics of unwrapping and mapping textures.

Rigging and Animation

Use simple rigging techniques to prepare your models for animation. Learn how to create movement and expression in your characters and objects.

Lighting Techniques

Set the mood and atmosphere in your scenes by applying the basics of 3D lighting. Explore different light types and how they affect your models and environments.

Rendering

Render your 3D scenes into finished images or animations using Maya’s built-in rendering tools. Learn how to set up renders to produce polished, high-quality outputs.

Simulation Techniques

Explore basic simulation techniques for effects like water and cloth. Learn how to integrate these dynamic elements into your 3D animations.

Why study at The Animation School?

Gain In-Demand Skills From the #1 Animation School in Africa

Ranked among the top 11 animation schools worldwide in 2025, we offer a practical, industry-driven curriculum that makes our graduates highly sought-after. Our students consistently win top awards both locally and internationally, and 80–90% of graduates go on to work for leading animation studios worldwide.

Q&A

Do You Have Questions About the Intro to 3D Animation Course?

Find answers to common questions about the Introduction to 3D Animation short course.

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Will I Get a Certificate?

Yes. Students who attend all sessions and complete the required exercises will receive a certificate of attendance from The Animation School. A formal assessment is not included as part of the course.

Who Is This Course for?

This course is perfect for professionals and students in Grades 8–12 who have basic computer skills and want to explore the exciting world of 3D animation.

This course is also ideal if you work in a corporate role and want to branch into a more creative field, are a traditional artist looking to digitise your creativity, or are simply intrigued by computer animation.

What Can I Do With 3D Animation Skills?

3D animation skills open doors to a wide range of creative opportunities. You can create animated characters, environments, and visual effects for games, movies, advertising, architecture, product design, and more. Even at a beginner level, knowing how to use industry-standard tools like Autodesk Maya can help you bring ideas to life and enhance any visual storytelling project.

Learning the basics now can be a stepping stone to more advanced studies and eventually to careers such as 3D animator, modeller, texture artist, or visual effects artist.

What Does This Course Cost?

The Introduction to 3D Animation short course costs R3,900.

If you’ve previously completed a short course through The Animation School, you qualify for a 10% discount.

Do You Offer Financial Assistance?

There are currently no bursaries available for short courses.

What Animation Software Will I Use in This Course?

You’ll work with Autodesk Maya, the most widely used 3D animation software in the world. Major studios use Maya for movies, TV commercials, and games, making it an excellent choice for beginners who want to learn industry-relevant skills.

What Will I Need for This Course?

You’ll need stable internet access and a webcam to join video calls, a headset with a microphone, and a three-button mouse—a two-button mouse will not work with Maya.

You’ll also need a computer that meets Maya’s system requirements, with the following minimum specs:

• Microsoft Windows 10, or MacOS 10.13 or newer

• 8GB of RAM (16GB recommended)

• 64-bit Intel or AMD multi-core processor

• 6GB of free disk space for installing Maya

What Is the Format of This Course?

The Introduction to 3D Animation course is delivered entirely online over the course of six weeks. Live classes take place on Saturdays from 09:00 to 12:00, taught by experienced facilitators.

In addition to these weekly online classes, you’ll need to spend around three hours per week watching lectures and completing practical exercises on your own.

The next cohort starts 4 October 2025.

Do I Need Experience to Start Learning 3D Animation?

No prior animation experience is required. If you have basic computer skills and an interest in storytelling or visual design, you can start learning 3D animation with this course. Our facilitators guide you step-by-step through essential tools and techniques in Autodesk Maya.

How Do I Join the Intro to 3D Animation Course?

Simply complete the registration form at the top of this page, submit it, and make the necessary payment.

What if I Want to Study Animation Full-Time?

If you’re serious about pursuing a career in animation, consider applying for our Diploma in Digital Animation. It’s a full-time, three-year qualification that prepares you for work in the animation industry through hands-on training, studio production experience, and professional development. Many students use the Introduction to 3D Animation course as a first step before committing to full-time study.

Ready to Discover the Magic of 3D Animation? Register Today

Complete the registration form and pay the registration fee

Join the next class starting on 4 October 2025