Certificate IV in Screen - Flexible Delivery(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: | CUF40401 | ![]() |
| Location: | AIE Canberra | Application: | CIT | |
| Duration: | 800 hrs | Course Schedule: | Flexible Delivery | |
Overview
This course replaces the Certificate IV in 3D Animation for Games and Film and includes updated curriculum to further meet the needs of industry and prepare students for the new Advanced Diploma of Professional Game Development and Advanced Diploma of Screen.
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 Advanced Diploma pathway they wish to choose for second year.
Flexible Delivery Study Options
Beginning semester one 2008, this course is being offered as flexible delivery. Students will be able to study a combination of online and face-to-face to learning to complete the Certificate IV over 12 months. Class times will be Tuesday and Thursday evenings, with additional open access class time on Wednesday evenings. Course tutorials, reference material and teacher support will be available through our online E-Learn system, outside of course hours. Students will also attend 4 weekends or 8 Saturdays over the year to complete the course (to be negotiated with the class group).
Contact Myles Peterson, Student Liaison on 02 6162 5131 or email us to register your interest in the flexible delivery option.
Areas of Study
3D Foundations: Students are first 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
Environment Creation: This module is designed to allow students to explore their newfound skills in 3D Studio Max to design and create their own virtual room. Students will build their themed room, fully furnishing it with 3D modeled and textured elements.
Introduction to Character 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.
This module also covers the theory and practice of animation anatomy and movement, facial animation and lip synching, and Inverse Kinematics (IK) Animation techniques.
Texturing and Lighting: Students will create photo-realistic images by combining 3D modelling with textures created in 2D software, such as Photoshop. Students will learn how to create atmosphere, and shading through the implementation of CG industry lighting effects.
Final Animation Project
The final project for this course is to produce a short animation with characters, background scenery, lighting and effects. Students start by planning their animation with concept art and storyboards, modelling and animating their designs throughout the production process and finish by compositing sound/ music and effects into the final product.
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.
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 creative industries.
Course Costs
Please contact AIE Canberra 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 AIE Canberra.
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 One (February) intakes, applications open in September of the previous year, with interviews held over October and November.

