Learn How To Make 3D Animation Content at NYFA
In this intensive 1-Year 3D Animation & VFX Program, aspiring visual storytellers learn fundamental skills in 3D animation and visual effects. Working under the guidance of faculty with experience from major studios including Disney, Dreamworks, Universal, and Netflix, students use industry standard software such as Maya, Mudbox, ZBrush, and Nuke.
While no previous 3D or animation experience is required to attend the program, studio art or computer experience is helpful and basic familiarity with a computer graphic program such as Adobe Illustrator or Adobe Photoshop is recommended. By the conclusion of the program, many students have an animation reel that highlights their abilities in modeling, texturing, animation, and VFX and lighting. Upon graduation, students earn a college credit-bearing Certificate.
Faculty Highlights
Curriculum
The curriculum of our 1-Year Program is designed to teach the essential aspects of animation and VFX, and students:
- Delve into the realm of visual effects and advanced modeling techniques
- Learn the essentials of preparing a template for an animated movie or sequence
- Work in professional facilities using state-of-the-art equipment and industry standard software programs such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe After Effects, as well as Nuke, Maya, Motion Builder, Mudbox, and ZBrush
- Study 3D Animation subjects including Screenwriting, Storyboard, Character Design, Drawing and Anatomy, Acting for Animation, Lighting, Materials, Textures, Animation, Rendering, Editing, and 3D Modeling and Sculpture
- Study VFX subjects such as Motion Capture, Green Screen, Compositing, Dynamics, Advanced CG Lighting, Scripting, Compositing, and Motion Tracking
To learn more, check out NYFA’s Course Catalog.
NYFA’s 1-Year 3D Animation & VFX Program is a three semester, conservatory-based, full-time program. Upon graduation, students earn a college credit-bearing Certificate. Qualified students who complete the 1-Year Certificate may also apply to have their coursework be accepted for advanced standing in the BFA or MFA in 3D Animation & VFX degree program.
During the 1-Year 3D Animation & VFX Program, students work on a variety of animation projects, including a final project that showcases a primary area of interest, be it modeling, animation VFX, or a combination thereof. Adequate time is made available for students to finish final projects and demonstrate a mastery of their particular area of interest. To see the types of projects students complete, visit our projects page.
This program is available at NYFA’s Los Angeles campus.
1-Year 3D Animation & VFX Program
| Location | Program Start Date and End Date | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | January, 2026 – December, 2026 August, 2026 – August, 2027 | Spring 2026 Semester The program semesters tuition and duration is listed below. In addition to tuition please review the programs associated feesTuition:$15,920 Per Semester Program Fee:$1,325 Per Semester Program Duration: 3 SemestersFall 2026 Semester The program semesters tuition and duration is listed below. In addition to tuition please review the programs associated feesTuition:$19,500 Per Semester Program Fee:$1,500 Per Semester Program Duration: 3 Semesters |
*Additional Fees:
Spring 2026 – Summer 2027
| Technology Fee: | $80 Per Semester |
| Wellness Services & Programming Fee: | $145 Per Semester |
| Activity Fee: | $125 per semester |
| Orientation Fee: (Spring 2026: January 5th – January 9th) |
Domestic Students: $150 International Students: $200 |
| Graduation Fee: | $100 |
| International Student Fee: | $200 for the first semester, $120 each subsequent semester |
Please note: Equipment, curriculum, and projects are subject to change and may vary depending on location. Students should consult the most recently published campus catalog for the most up-to-date curriculum.