3D Animation and Visual Effects Media Design School

Overview

The 3D Animation and Visual Effects programme at Media Design School provides a professional environment for students to master the technical and creative skills required for modern film production. This degree focuses on high-end digital artistry, ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute to major international cinematic projects.

Students engage in an immersive learning experience that covers the entire post-production pipeline. By specialising in areas such as compositing, technical direction, or character animation, learners develop a deep expertise that mirrors real-world studio requirements. The curriculum is designed to foster both artistic vision and technical proficiency.

The final year of study is dedicated to industry-level productions where students collaborate to create state-of-the-art short films.

Why 3D Animation and Visual Effects at Media Design School?

Media Design School is recognised as a leading institution for digital arts, having been ranked as the top animation college in New Zealand. The faculty consists of industry-trained professionals who bring extensive experience from major film productions into the classroom, providing students with unique insights into the field.

The institution boasts a strong track record of student success, with many alumni contributing to global blockbusters. Facilities are designed to replicate professional studio settings, encouraging a culture of camaraderie and collaboration. Students also benefit from the school's strong reputation, which has led to numerous international awards for student-led films.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 34550 per year
• National fee: NZD 10800 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Year 1

• Animation and Rigging
• 3D
• Traditional Art and Design for 3D
• Digital Art I
• Digital Art II
• 3D Modelling
• 3D Rendering
• Mini-Project
• Design Principles and Practice I

Year 2

• Pre production
• Video Productions
• 3D Scripting
• Design Principles and Practice II
• Industry Procedures and Practice I
• Animation: Workflow and Principles
• Animation: Mechanics, Expressions and Gestures
• Animation: Non Verbal Communication
• Technical Director Modelling II
• Technical Director Rendering II
• Technical Director Compositing
• Mini Project
• Advanced Rigging
• Motion Design Animation
• Motion Design Production Techniques
• Visual Effects 2D Compositing
• Visual Effects 3D Compositing
• Visual Effects Compositing Production Techniques

Year 3

• Creature Animation
• 3D Technical Studies
• Visual Effects Compositing
• Team Production I
• Team Production II
• Individual Production
• Industry Procedures and Practice II

Careers with 3D Animation and Visual Effects

Graduates are highly sought after by leading studios for roles such as 3D Animators, where they create characters for film and gaming. Many find success as Compositors, responsible for the seamless integration of live-action footage with digital elements to produce polished final shots.

The programme also prepares students for roles as Technical Directors, bridging the gap between creative artistry and software development. Alumni have secured positions at prestigious organisations like Wētā FX and Image Engine, contributing to world-renowned franchises and award-winning visual media.