Certificate IV in 3D Animation for Games
& Film
(Canberra Campus)
The Information below is only relevant to permanent residents/citizens of Australian and citizens of New Zealand . International students please refer to the International students section.
| Qualification: | Certificate IV | Program Code: | C4-2G16 | ![]() |
| Location: | AIE Canberra | Application: | AIE/CIT | |
| Duration: | 800 hrs | Course Schedule: | Full Time | |
Course Overview
This qualification also acts as the first stage of the Advanced Diploma of Computer Game Development and Advanced Diploma of Screen and Media. As a foundation year, the course introduces students to 3D Studio Max and the skills required to produce industry-standard 3D modelling and basic animations. During the course students work through the elements of digital art essential to the games, film, television, design and other 3D industries.
Completion of this course is the essential foundation to help students decide on future training directions and industry destinations. Throughout the course students will learn about all facets of the production process from initial concept and design through to the final product.
This course is designed as a foundation year and is the same for all animation students, regardless of the Diploma pathway they wish to choose for second year.
Areas of Study
3D Foundations: Students are introduced to the elements and tools of 3D Studio Max offering students an introduction to user interface & controls, simple building methods commonly used in 3D art and the basics of modelling, texturing and animation.
Lip Synchronisation: Students learn the techniques required to create realistic mouth movements and morph targets set to a sound file.
Character Creation and Animation: Students will create an animated 3D character; the process begins with the development of concept art, followed by character modelling, texturing and the animation of unique characters.
Digital Composition: This module equips
students with the skills required to combine real time video
or still imagery with their own 3D character models.
Game Level Design: Students will participate in groups to
develop and create a finished games level, modelling, texturing and rendering
their project to studio specifications in 3D studio Max.
Inverse Kinematics and Bones: Students will learn theory and practical skills on implementing the complex bones and inverse kinematics features of 3D Studio Max to create a multi limbed and segmented insect.
Realistic Lighting and Texturing: Students will create photo realistic images using 3D software and 2D textures created completely from scratch.
Commercial Production: Students will work in teams to combine all the skills learnt throughout the year to produce a commercially realistic product. Students will experience different roles within the team, such as concept artist or animator, to gain an insight into how commercial animated products are developed.
Tutorials are either interactive, led by a teacher or self paced. Students have access to a wide range of reference material. Throughout the course industry partners regularly provide additional tutorials and lectures.
Career Prospects
Click here for more information on the range of careers available in 3D animation and digital
Course Costs
Please contact the campus of your choice for more information on the course fees and flexible payment options available.
Pre-requisites
Applicants must attend an interview and submit
a portfolio of artwork and attend an interview for entry
into this course. A portfolio can include any form of creative,
original, artwork and does not need to include 3D material.
Some common items that applicants use in their portfolio
include paintings, sculpture, sketches, graphic design/multimedia
and 2D/3D art.
For further advice on material to include in your portfolio, please contact your nearest campus. Click here for and here for .
Students are also required to be computer literate, and thus applicants should provide evidence of this and of their ability to work in a team. This evidence could include volunteer work, paid employment, membership in clubs, and group assignments at secondary school level.
How to Apply
Download the application form here! For Semester Two (July) intakes, applications open in May, with interviews conducted throughout June. For Semester One (February) intakes, applications open in September of the previous year, with interviews held over October and November.

