2D Computer Animation

Students choose between online and combined delivery options to fit their learning style. As part of the course curricula, students learn the fundamental principles of 2d animation, body mechanics, locomotion, and acting with 2d characters as their final project. By the end of the programs, students will create their own demo reel, including the production of an original animated sequence. 

In the 2D Computer Animation Diploma students learn how to bring life to two-dimensional digital characters to achieve sincere and believable performances.

Classes per Week

• Small class sizes
• 2 online live sessions per week. (1h)
• 1 online live support class per week. (1h)
• 1 online live homework class per week.(30m)
• Daily online student networking session. (1h)

Assignment Workload

• Weekly assignments
• Weekly milestones and deadlines
• 20 hours per week

Age

High school graduate (with transcript), or 19 years of age or older.

Portfolio

A portfolio must showcase the student's top five (5) favorite artworks. Students can also earn their way to admission by successfully passing the Introduction to Digital Arts course with a minimum grade of B- (73%).

Assessment

Prospective students must successfully pass the general assessment test in our application form. The test assesses Computer Knowledge, Internet knowledge, English reading, and Writing skills.

English Proficiency

International students with English as a second language must demonstrate a good oral and written level of English. A telephone, video call, or in-person interview is required to verify English proficiency.

Term 1

Drawing Preparation & Animation Principles

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of 2D animation. Various aspects and functionality of the 2D software ‘Animate CC’ are introduced. Proper animation workflows and methods are used to learn the 12 principles of animation. Animation exercises begin with basic movements and evolve into complex actions and acting.

Term 2

Body Mechanics & Locomotion

This course provides an introduction to body mechanics. The focus of the course is on learning the physics, locomotion and kinematics of a body in motion, to use as the foundation for creating believable animated performances. Students learn the mechanic principles of each body part, in order to move them correctly. Acting for animation is introduced. Animation assignments begin with basic walks and evolve to advanced versions of bi-pedal and quadruped walk cycles.

Term 3

Introduction to Acting

This course introduces students to Acting for Animation. Beginning with the study of pantomime (non verbal) acting, students will study Body Language, which incorporates gestures, postures, eye movements and blinking. Final animation assignments will include dialogue, requiring the study of facial performance including the mouth shapes, teeth and tongue positions to portray phonemes. Bringing life to an animated character and obtaining a believable performance is the ultimate goal.

Term 4

Advanced Acting

This course is a continuation of in depth techniques of Acting for Animation studies. Students will go through a series of milestones in order to complete an animated sequence, which includes the performance of two computer-animated characters. Such milestones encompass writing the story, storyboarding, creating 2D/3D animatics, filming live-action reference and editing video and sound. This final term advances the students’ understanding and ability of storytelling, entertainment, acting and animation skills.