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The industry of animation, gaming and other related visual effects (VFX) can present opportunities for students to explore interesting career alternatives. The B.Sc. in Animation and Visual Effects degree is one of the courses that can allow students to become professionals in the domain of animation, gaming and graphics-related arts. It is primarily a three-year course divided into six equal semesters. This course teaches students about 2-D and 3-D animation, focusing on classical and digital methods along with visual effects. Students use professional visual effects software and are taught how to use them in both animation and live action footage. The course has many subjects that overlap and play a role in many domains other than just those of animation and gaming. Thus, an emerging student could have the scope of entering several domains in a professional capacity.
In order to be eligible for this course, you need to have passed the 10+2 and have basic knowledge of computers. Most institutes also have an aptitude test to gauge student potential, among other potential requirements.
After completing the course, you might be able to start a career in a studio as an animation/VFX film developer, create advertisements, develop e-learning content or develop gaming and TV-based visual effects.
(Also read:Â List of careers in Animation)
The B.Sc. in Animation and Visual Effects course offered by most institutes in the country follows a similar pattern in which different semesters focus on specific aspects of animation and visual effects. In the first semester, you are generally taught the fundamentals of art, design and visualization along with Adobe Photoshop. In the second semester, 2-D classical and digital animation might be covered, or lighting techniques and script writing. You may also be taught how to use software like Sound Forge, Adobe Premiere and Flash. The third semester could focus on 3-D animation and introduce you to software such as Autodesk Maya or Final Cut Pro. In the fourth semester, the focus is typically on visual effects and post production.
In addition to using Autodesk Maya, you may also learn how to make use of other software like Adobe After Effects, Foundry Nuke or eyeon Fusion. The fifth semester could offer you a choice to specialise in one aspect of visual effects such as modelling and texturing or lighting and rendering. In the last semester, students develop a portfolio or show reel that is intended to showcase their talents and endorse them for a job in a studio.
Below is a list of some colleges offering visual effects (VFX) courses in India such as the B.Sc. in Animation and Visual Effects, B.Sc. 3-D Animation and Visual Effects or the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) 3-D Animation and Visual Effects:
Programmes are subject to change, it is advisable to check directly with a school for current programme availability.
Sources
“AD3D EDGE course,” Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics website, http://www.maacindia.com/animation-courses/ad3d-edge.htm
“BA in 3D Animation and Visual Effects (BA(AVFX)),” Indira Gandhi National Open University, http://www.ignou.ac.in/ignou/aboutignou/school/sojnms/programmes/detail/187/1
“B.Sc. 3D Animation & Visual Effects + Diploma 3D Animation & Visual Effects,” Asian Academy of Film and TV, http://www.aaft.com/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1918&Itemid=295
“B.Sc in Animation and Visual Effects (3 Years),” Zee Institute of Create Art website, http://www.zica.org/course_animation_visualeffects.html