Course Structure

The full 30 week Animation Apprentice Course includes 5 modules:

1. Maya Basics – 4 weeks
2. Locomotion Parts 1 & 2 – 8 weeks
3. Character Performance Parts 1 & 2 – 8 weeks
4. Animals & Creatures – 6 weeks
5. Demo Reel Review – 4 weeks
Total: 30 weeks

Module 1 – MAYA Basics (4 weeks)

This includes: a general introduction to Maya basics such as: Modeling, Texturing & Lighting, and some simple animation, such as animating an inanimate object and giving it life and personality.

Module 2 – Locomotion  (8 weeks)

This module is divided into two parts. Part 1 is about learning the basic mechanics of character locomotion: Part 2 is concerned with weight, flexibility, overlapping action, and physical character action, as well as how to study and use live action reference.

Module 3 – Character Performance (8 weeks)

This module is also divided into two parts. Part 1 is about learning the principles of mime and pantomime; how to use character poses to tell a story, and how to make your character give a physical performance. Part 2 is about learning dialogue and lipsync; here we dig deeper into acting and personality.

Module 4 – Animals & Creatures (6 weeks)

Here we tackle a variety of animals including quadrapeds, insects, and birds, showing how to combine animal locomotion with performance.

Module 5 – Demo Reel (4 weeks)

This final Module is all about building an impressive reel which will showcase your talent as a professional animator.