Effects Animation Diploma

Heading

10 years delivering online education

Study Online in the USA or from any country in the world.

An image from a digitally generated model

Introduction

In the Effects Animation Diploma, students learn how to create high end visual effects for the Animation, Visual Effects, and Video Game Industries.

Students choose between online and combined classes delivery options to fit their busy schedules and learning styles.

As part of the course curricula, students create different types of effects simulations such as natural phenomena like water, snow, and rain. Additionally, students will create special volumetric effects such as explosions, magic, and others effects in fantasy movies.

By the end of the program, students produce their effects demo reel showcasing their technical understanding of both mathematical expressions and procedural geometry generation coding in Houdini software by Sidefx.

An image of a digitally generated animation model

Who should attend?

Aspiring effects animators, people that demonstrate problem-solving skills, people that like to re-create natural phenomena, enjoy using computer software simulation and have a wild imagination. People with the technical ability to convey their ideas through computer simulation software.

Who is our target student?

Aspiring effects animators who are deeply passionate about how the physics of natural phenomena work. People who already recognize and understand their strengths of what they can be best at, and can build a rewarding career throughout their life in the Entertainment industry.

Who is not our target student?

Artists looking for general education, undecided or unknowledgeable about career paths. We recommend taking our other short introductory courses to find and recognize their strengths.

Some of the studios our alumni work at:

Rare Limited is a British video game developer and a studio of Xbox Game Studios based in Twycross. Rare are known for their games spanning many genres, which include platforming, first-person shooter, action-adventure, fighting, and racing. Some of their most popular titles include games from the Donkey Kong, Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, Viva Piñata, Grabbed by the Ghoulies, and Battletoads series, as well as games like GoldenEye 007 and Sea of Thieves. The company was established in 1985 by brothers Tim and Chris Stamper, who also founded Ultimate Play the Game. During its early years, Rare was backed by an unlimited budget from Nintendo, primarily concentrated on Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) games. During this time the studio created successful games such as Wizards & Warriors, R.C. Pro-Am, and Battletoads. Rare became a prominent second-party developer for Nintendo, which came to own a large minority stake of the company. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Rare started selling their games under the trademark name "Rareware" and received international recognition and critical acclaim for games such as the Donkey Kong Country trilogy, Killer Instinct, GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, Perfect Dark, and Conker's Bad Fur Day.
At WildBrain we inspire imaginations to run wild, engaging kids and families everywhere with great content across all media. With approximately 13,000 half-hours of filmed entertainment in our library – one of the world’s most extensive – we are home to such brands as Peanuts, Teletubbies, Strawberry Shortcake, Caillou, Inspector Gadget, Johnny Test and Degrassi. At our 75,000-square-foot state-of-the-art animation studio in Vancouver, BC, we produce such fan-favourite series as The Snoopy Show, Snoopy in Space, Chip & Potato, Carmen Sandiego, Go, Dog. Go! and more. Our shows are enjoyed worldwide in more than 150 countries on over 500 streaming platforms and telecasters, and our AVOD business – WildBrain Spark – offers one of the largest networks of kids’ channels on YouTube, garnering billions of views per month from over 150 million subscribers. We also license consumer products and location-based entertainment in every major territory for our own properties as well as for our clients and content partners. Our television group owns and operates four family entertainment channels that are among the most viewed in Canada.
Surrounded by mountains and water in beautiful Vancouver, BC, we are smart people who like smart people. We create mobile games with a social core that engage players and provoke us with creative new problems. We value data, informal leadership and keeping it all balanced. When we set out to make games with massive online communities, we knew that we first had to create the ideal environment for building ambitious things: a place where brilliant and inspiring people come together to build games that make millions of players happy. We realized that we needed to find incredibly talented people and get out of their way. Since then we've paid careful attention to how we like to work together - these are some of our guiding principles: Ownership; Have Wonderful Arguments; The Best Ideas Win; Keep Growing.
Ubisoft Entertainment SA is a French video game company headquartered in the Montreuil suburb of Paris, with several development studios across the world. Its video game franchises include For Honor, Assassin's Creed, Prince of Persia, Far Cry, Rayman, Rabbids, Watch Dogs, Just Dance, and the Tom Clancy's series.
At The Focus, we recognize that great creative work can only be produced with talented and diverse people. The most advanced technologies can only go so far without the right people wielding them. For this reason, we’ve created The Focus, a careers hub for all kinds of creative professionals in visual effects, advertising, creative experience and animation. The Focus aims to foster a diverse community and lead the way into a more inclusive creative industry, representative of the world we live in. We will bring you the latest creative industry content, thought leadership, and career development opportunities, plus job alerts tailored to your interests.
Sprung Studios Ltd was established in 2005 by James Chaytor, initially specialising in interaction design within the corporate sector, before developing into the first creative studio with an international reputation for functional and beautiful UX/UI design for the games industry. The studios have come a long way since being a handful of people in a loft office near Brighton Station. We continue to maintain our dedication to quality work and pride ourselves on a friendly, creative and collaborative work environment.
Sony Pictures Imageworks Inc. is a Canadian visual effects and computer animation studio headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with an additional office on the Sony Pictures Studios lot in Culver City, California. SPI is a unit of Sony Pictures Entertainment's Motion Picture Group.
Smoking Gun Interactive is an independent video game development studio based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is known for developing medieval MMO tower defense game Age of Empires: Castle Siege, which is published by Microsoft Studios.
Since 2015 we’ve produced 7 animated series and 320 completed episodes. Our 2-D animated series reached 22 billion views on YouTube and are also placed on other platforms worldwide. Our goal is to give every child confidence in their ability to make the world a better place. We want to inspire kids and teens with 3 big ideas: the world is full of opportunities, they need to take care of it, and they can be anything they want to.
Riseup Labs game development studio develops games and designs plots behind them through fruitful game art solutions. Unique ideas, dynamic animations, lively characters define our projects and increase clients' dreams. Riseup Labs is a pioneer and best game development company in Bangladesh. Here you can turn your creative ideas into games by bringing the best quality and cost-effective solution. We run independent projects, jointly build games with the client's team, and provide further operational services. Our developer's expertise allows us to cover all gaming platforms and develop a fantastic product that matches the customer's vision and player's preferences.

Quick Facts

You can study 100% live Online, or Combined in Vancouver, Canada

You can study 100% live Online.

This program is offered 100% live Online.

Student profile:

Creative Ability:

50

%

Technical Ability:

50

%

Number of terms
4

Hours per week
20
High School Students
5

Program total hours
990
High School Students
180

Number of months
12

How this program works

Watch video (3 min)

Meet your next industry teachers

Blaine
Toderian

Calvin
Leduc

Damian
Ciancio

Ralph
Soll

Christopher
Vacher

Chris
Woods

Meet your next industry teachers

Blaine
Toderian

Calvin
Leduc

Damian
Ciancio

Ralph
Soll

Christopher
Vacher

Chris
Woods

Learning style

Select from our 2-Delivery options and design your education around your values and lifestyle

Live Online

Offers the flexibility and freedom for parents and students to shape their education, learning from industry experts and from a trusted Canadian Accredited Education internationally recognized.

Expand your local network

Join your regional chapter while experiencing a live, focused and extraordinary program.  We partner with your institution to deliver high quality education in your home country.
VANAS is a fully accredited Studio School designed to give students practical skills in workplace environments

Combined (Online + Onsite)

Time is divided between online and onsite learning. Every week students spend 3 hours with in-person sessions and interacting with their peers and Industry professionals.

Experience Vancouver Canada

Outside the weekly in person sessions, access course content and weekly communication online, while experiencing Hollywood North in Vancouver, one of most livable cities in the world.

Learning style

Online education designed around your values and lifestyle

100% Live Online

Offers the flexibility and freedom for parents and students to shape their education, learning from industry experts and from a trusted Canadian Accredited Education internationally recognized.
VANAS is a fully accredited Studio School designed to give students practical skills in workplace environments

Expand your online global network

Throughout your course of studies, you will meet with your teachers who are industry professionals, and you will interact with your peers who are like-minded individuals to expand your global network.

Benötigen Sie sofortige Hilfe?
Rufen Sie gebührenfrei an: +1 833-437-3872

Learning style

Online education designed around your values and lifestyle

100% Live Online

Offers the flexibility and freedom for parents and students to shape their education, learning from industry experts and from a trusted Canadian Accredited Education internationally recognized.
VANAS is a fully accredited Studio School designed to give students practical skills in workplace environments

Expand your online global network

Throughout your course of studies, you will meet with your teachers who are industry professionals, and you will interact with your peers who are like-minded individuals to expand your global network.

Onsite + Online Live Classes

• Small class sizes
• Two online live sessions per week, one hour per session
• One online live support class per week, one hour per session
• One online live homework class per week, 30 minutes per session
• One online live student networking session per day, one hour per session
• One in-person session per week, three hours per session

Assignments Workload

• Weekly assignments comprised by milestones and deadlines
• Synchronous and asynchronous online activities
• 20-25 hours per week

Schedules &
Class Times

• Class times are listed at the top of this website page
• Class times are also visible on the application form
• Flexible times for you to work and study at the same time

Online
Live Classes

• Small class sizes
• Two online live sessions per week, one hour per session
• One online live support class per week, one hour per session
• One online live homework class per week, 30 minutes per session
• One online live student networking session per day, one hour per session

Assignments Workload

• Weekly assignments comprised by milestones and deadlines
• Synchronous and asynchronous online activities
• 20-25 hours per week

Schedules &
Class Times

• Class times are listed at the top of this website page
• Class times are also visible on the application form
• Flexible times for you to work and study at the same time

Online
Live Classes

• Small class sizes
• Two online live sessions per week, one hour per session
• One online live support class per week, one hour per session
• One online live homework class per week, 30 minutes per session
• One online live student networking session per day, one hour per session

Assignments Workload

• Weekly assignments comprised by milestones and deadlines
• Synchronous and asynchronous online activities

Schedules &
Class Times

• Class times are listed at the top of this website page
• Class times are also visible on the application form
• Flexible times for you to work and study at the same time

Program Outline

Effects Animation Diploma

Term 1

Effects Software Foundations

This course introduces students to the fundamentals for creating computer generated visual effects. Various aspects and functionality of the high-end 3D effects software Houdini, Pyro and Mantra are reviewed. This results in learning the basics of 3D modeling, animation, rendering and compositing. The final outcome is learning how to incorporate the foundations of visual effects simulations in Houdini.

Duration: 3 months


Term 2

Effects Design

This course provides an introduction on how to technically manage a 3D visual effects project. The focus of the course is on learning how to ingest an asset and build a reusable technical effects rig. Students will learn how to create technical effects such as bullet shots in order to produce muzzle flash, tracer streaks and wall impacts.

Duration: 3 months

Term 3

Effects Production & Production Pipeline

This course provides an introduction to Expressions in Houdini. The focus of the course is on learning how to create procedural effects simulations. Students will learn how to edit Expressions within Houdini, in order to create complex simulations and procedural generation of clouds and forest.

Duration: 3 months

Term 4

Portfolio & Final Effects Projects

This course is a continuation of production techniques used in the technical effects pipeline. This final term advances the students’ knowledge and ability to create realistic technical effects. Students will learn through a series of milestones, how to complete two industry level effects shots, in order to achieve a finished demo reel.

Duration: 3 months

Term 1

Effects Software Foundations

This course introduces students to the fundamentals for creating computer generated visual effects. Various aspects and functionality of the high-end 3D effects software Houdini, Pyro and Mantra are reviewed. This results in learning the basics of 3D modeling, animation, rendering and compositing. The final outcome is learning how to incorporate the foundations of visual effects simulations in Houdini.

Duration: 3 months


Term 2

Effects Design

This course provides an introduction on how to technically manage a 3D visual effects project. The focus of the course is on learning how to ingest an asset and build a reusable technical effects rig. Students will learn how to create technical effects such as bullet shots in order to produce muzzle flash, tracer streaks and wall impacts.

Duration: 3 months

Term 3

Effects Production & Production Pipeline

This course provides an introduction to Expressions in Houdini. The focus of the course is on learning how to create procedural effects simulations. Students will learn how to edit Expressions within Houdini, in order to create complex simulations and procedural generation of clouds and forest.

Duration: 3 months

Course codes: FXTD-100, FXTD-200, FXTD-300, FXTD-400. Students must obtain a minimum grade of a B- (73%) to successfully pass the course. VANAS reserves the right to review and change without notice the curriculum design to meet the industry requirements.

Admission Requirements

The following is the minimum criteria for students eligibility

Age

High school graduate (with transcript), or 19 years of age or older

Assessment

Prospective students must successfully pass general the assessment test in our application form. The test assesses Computer Knowledge, Internet knowledge, English reading, and Writing skills.

Portfolio

For diploma programs, a portfolio must be submitted as part of the application.‍If students do not have a portfolio, they may earn their way to admission by successfully passing the Introduction to Digital Arts course with a minimum grade of B- (73%).

Click here to access the letter of intent.

English Proficiency

International students with English as a second language must demonstrate a good oral and written level of English. A telephone, video call, or in-person interview is required to verify English proficiency.

System Requirements

Students are responsible for supplying their own Computer Software and Hardware.
Academic discounts are available to our students.

Windows
software and hardware logo
12 GB RAM (16 GB recommended) Chrome internet browser
Adobe Creative Cloud
software and hardware logo
VANAS Students save 60%
Apple Mac
software and hardware logo
12 GB RAM (16 GB recommended) Chrome internet browser
Graphics Card
software and hardware logo
Recommended Graphics card: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 3 GB or better.
Internet
software and hardware logo
Broadband, High Speed connection 10 Mbps Download (Recommended) 1 Mbps Upload (Recommended)
Monitor
software and hardware logo
Computer Screen with a 1920 X 1080 display. 2 monitors are better.
Webcam
software and hardware logo
Students must keep their computer cameras on at all times unless directed otherwise. Students must be on-screen, visible, and present throughout each class. Students who do not or cannot turn their cameras on will be marked absent.
Houdini
software and hardware logo
Effects Animation Software
Maya
software and hardware logo
Free for VANAS Students
Nuke
software and hardware logo
Discounted for VANAS Students

Study and Work in Canada

Vancouver Animation School offers international students the option to study from their home countries or within Canada. VANAS DLI number is O19283928982

Designated Learning Institution

This full-time online program meets the Ministry of Education requirements to Study and Work in Canada. Classes are conducted online and onsite, and on-site lab access is available for students to interact with one another.

Study Visas and Work Permits

Students will need to apply for a Student Visa and are permitted to work for up to 20 hours per week for the duration of the program.

Citizen and Immigration Canada

Citizen and Immigration Canada reserves the right to grant student visas and work permits on an individual basis.  In order to apply for a Student Visa, students must be accepted into the program.

Accredited. Trusted. Respected.

Private Training Institutions Branch

The Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education administers the Private Training Act and associated regulations.

Education Quality Assurance

The Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation is British Columbia’s brand for quality post-secondary education.

Canadian Information Center for International Credentials

The Canadian Information Center for International Credentials (CICIC) was established in 1990, after Canada ratified the UNESCO Convention on the Recognition of Studies.

EduCanada

A joint initiative of the provinces and territories, through the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC), and Global Affairs Canada.

Washington Education Training Board

Our strategic plan, Talent and Prosperity for All, details the state’s opportunities and workforce objectives while our performance reports enforce strict accountability measures that go beyond federal requirements, ensuring the state’s education and training programs receive an objective evaluation, meet Washington’s high performance goals, and offer a return on investment for taxpayers.

Invest in Something Extraordinary: You

Premium Higher Education with all-inclusive industry values. VANAS welcomes you, works for you, and cares for you.

1-Year Online Diploma

$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 USD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 CAD
$1,499 CAD
$499 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
A 12 months accredited diploma program that will take you on a semester-based learning journey. VANAS Diploma programs are career-focused with a learning methodology that will take you from foundations to development, to understanding; designed with an all-inclusive educational pedagogy.

See details

1-Year Combined Diploma

$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
A 12 months accredited diploma program that will take you on a semester-based learning journey. VANAS Diploma programs are career-focused with a learning methodology that will take you from foundations to development, to understanding; designed with an all-inclusive educational pedagogy.

See details

1-Year Online Diploma

$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 USD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 CAD
$1,499 CAD
$499 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
A 12 months accredited diploma program that will take you on a semester-based learning journey. VANAS Diploma programs are career-focused with a learning methodology that will take you from foundations to development, to understanding; designed with an all-inclusive educational pedagogy.

See details

Effects Animation Diploma

$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 USD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 CAD
$1,499 CAD
$499 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
High School Students

$3,500

Combined Diploma (Online + Onsite)
Apply Now

VANAS Financing Plans

Choose the payment option that fits best your financial situation and lifestyle

Effects Animation Diploma

Payment
Option

A
B

Number of
Payments

1
3

Tuition
Due

$4,500
$1,620

Tuition
Total

$4,500
$4,860

Effects Animation Diploma

Dual Enrollment for High School Students

Payment
Option

A
B

Number of
Payments

1
3

Tuition
Due

$3,500
$1,260

Tuition
Total

$3,500
$3,780

Convenience Fees

When paying with a Credit Card, a non-refundable convenience fee from 4% - 6% of the total amount will be applied. A convenience fee, sometimes referred to as a credit or debit card "service fee" is established by third party credit or debit card issuers to cover the transaction costs of online purchases. If the payment is international, credit card processors take an additional 1% since it's considered cross-border.

Vancouver Animation School does not receive any portion of convenience or service fee payments. Additionally, these fees are subject to change by third party credit and debit card issuers.

To avoid convenience fees from credit card issuers, you can always use a flat fee payment method such as direct deposit, wire transfer, or use a flat fee processor such as World Remit.

Effects Animation Diploma

Heading

10 years delivering online education

Study Online in the USA or from any country in the world.

An image from a digitally generated model

Introduction

In the Effects Animation Diploma, students learn how to create high end visual effects for the Animation, Visual Effects, and Video Game Industries.

Students choose between online and combined classes delivery options to fit their busy schedules and learning styles.

As part of the course curricula, students create different types of effects simulations such as natural phenomena like water, snow, and rain. Additionally, students will create special volumetric effects such as explosions, magic, and others effects in fantasy movies.

By the end of the program, students produce their effects demo reel showcasing their technical understanding of both mathematical expressions and procedural geometry generation coding in Houdini software by Sidefx.

An image of a digitally generated animation model

Who should attend?

Aspiring effects animators, people that demonstrate problem-solving skills, people that like to re-create natural phenomena, enjoy using computer software simulation and have a wild imagination. People with the technical ability to convey their ideas through computer simulation software.

Who is our target student?

Aspiring effects animators who are deeply passionate about how the physics of natural phenomena work. People who already recognize and understand their strengths of what they can be best at, and can build a rewarding career throughout their life in the Entertainment industry.

Who is not our target student?

Artists looking for general education, undecided or unknowledgeable about career paths. We recommend taking our other short introductory courses to find and recognize their strengths.

Some of the studios our alumni work at:

Rare Limited is a British video game developer and a studio of Xbox Game Studios based in Twycross. Rare are known for their games spanning many genres, which include platforming, first-person shooter, action-adventure, fighting, and racing. Some of their most popular titles include games from the Donkey Kong, Banjo-Kazooie, Conker, Viva Piñata, Grabbed by the Ghoulies, and Battletoads series, as well as games like GoldenEye 007 and Sea of Thieves. The company was established in 1985 by brothers Tim and Chris Stamper, who also founded Ultimate Play the Game. During its early years, Rare was backed by an unlimited budget from Nintendo, primarily concentrated on Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) games. During this time the studio created successful games such as Wizards & Warriors, R.C. Pro-Am, and Battletoads. Rare became a prominent second-party developer for Nintendo, which came to own a large minority stake of the company. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Rare started selling their games under the trademark name "Rareware" and received international recognition and critical acclaim for games such as the Donkey Kong Country trilogy, Killer Instinct, GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, Perfect Dark, and Conker's Bad Fur Day.
At WildBrain we inspire imaginations to run wild, engaging kids and families everywhere with great content across all media. With approximately 13,000 half-hours of filmed entertainment in our library – one of the world’s most extensive – we are home to such brands as Peanuts, Teletubbies, Strawberry Shortcake, Caillou, Inspector Gadget, Johnny Test and Degrassi. At our 75,000-square-foot state-of-the-art animation studio in Vancouver, BC, we produce such fan-favourite series as The Snoopy Show, Snoopy in Space, Chip & Potato, Carmen Sandiego, Go, Dog. Go! and more. Our shows are enjoyed worldwide in more than 150 countries on over 500 streaming platforms and telecasters, and our AVOD business – WildBrain Spark – offers one of the largest networks of kids’ channels on YouTube, garnering billions of views per month from over 150 million subscribers. We also license consumer products and location-based entertainment in every major territory for our own properties as well as for our clients and content partners. Our television group owns and operates four family entertainment channels that are among the most viewed in Canada.
Surrounded by mountains and water in beautiful Vancouver, BC, we are smart people who like smart people. We create mobile games with a social core that engage players and provoke us with creative new problems. We value data, informal leadership and keeping it all balanced. When we set out to make games with massive online communities, we knew that we first had to create the ideal environment for building ambitious things: a place where brilliant and inspiring people come together to build games that make millions of players happy. We realized that we needed to find incredibly talented people and get out of their way. Since then we've paid careful attention to how we like to work together - these are some of our guiding principles: Ownership; Have Wonderful Arguments; The Best Ideas Win; Keep Growing.
Ubisoft Entertainment SA is a French video game company headquartered in the Montreuil suburb of Paris, with several development studios across the world. Its video game franchises include For Honor, Assassin's Creed, Prince of Persia, Far Cry, Rayman, Rabbids, Watch Dogs, Just Dance, and the Tom Clancy's series.
At The Focus, we recognize that great creative work can only be produced with talented and diverse people. The most advanced technologies can only go so far without the right people wielding them. For this reason, we’ve created The Focus, a careers hub for all kinds of creative professionals in visual effects, advertising, creative experience and animation. The Focus aims to foster a diverse community and lead the way into a more inclusive creative industry, representative of the world we live in. We will bring you the latest creative industry content, thought leadership, and career development opportunities, plus job alerts tailored to your interests.
Sprung Studios Ltd was established in 2005 by James Chaytor, initially specialising in interaction design within the corporate sector, before developing into the first creative studio with an international reputation for functional and beautiful UX/UI design for the games industry. The studios have come a long way since being a handful of people in a loft office near Brighton Station. We continue to maintain our dedication to quality work and pride ourselves on a friendly, creative and collaborative work environment.
Sony Pictures Imageworks Inc. is a Canadian visual effects and computer animation studio headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with an additional office on the Sony Pictures Studios lot in Culver City, California. SPI is a unit of Sony Pictures Entertainment's Motion Picture Group.
Smoking Gun Interactive is an independent video game development studio based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is known for developing medieval MMO tower defense game Age of Empires: Castle Siege, which is published by Microsoft Studios.
Since 2015 we’ve produced 7 animated series and 320 completed episodes. Our 2-D animated series reached 22 billion views on YouTube and are also placed on other platforms worldwide. Our goal is to give every child confidence in their ability to make the world a better place. We want to inspire kids and teens with 3 big ideas: the world is full of opportunities, they need to take care of it, and they can be anything they want to.
Riseup Labs game development studio develops games and designs plots behind them through fruitful game art solutions. Unique ideas, dynamic animations, lively characters define our projects and increase clients' dreams. Riseup Labs is a pioneer and best game development company in Bangladesh. Here you can turn your creative ideas into games by bringing the best quality and cost-effective solution. We run independent projects, jointly build games with the client's team, and provide further operational services. Our developer's expertise allows us to cover all gaming platforms and develop a fantastic product that matches the customer's vision and player's preferences.

Quick Facts

You can study 100% live Online, or Combined in Vancouver, Canada

You can study 100% live Online.

This program is offered 100% live Online.

Student profile:

Creative Ability:

50

%

Technical Ability:

50

%

Number of terms
4

Hours per week
20
High School Students
5

Program total hours
990
High School Students
180

Number of months
12

How this program works

Watch video (3 min)

Meet your next industry teachers

Blaine
Toderian

Calvin
Leduc

Damian
Ciancio

Ralph
Soll

Christopher
Vacher

Chris
Woods

Meet your next industry teachers

Blaine
Toderian

Calvin
Leduc

Damian
Ciancio

Ralph
Soll

Christopher
Vacher

Chris
Woods

Learning style

Select from our 2-Delivery options and design your education around your values and lifestyle

Live Online

Offers the flexibility and freedom for parents and students to shape their education, learning from industry experts and from a trusted Canadian Accredited Education internationally recognized.

Expand your local network

Join your regional chapter while experiencing a live, focused and extraordinary program.  We partner with your institution to deliver high quality education in your home country.
VANAS is a fully accredited Studio School designed to give students practical skills in workplace environments

Combined (Online + Onsite)

Time is divided between online and onsite learning. Every week students spend 3 hours with in-person sessions and interacting with their peers and Industry professionals.

Experience Vancouver Canada

Outside the weekly in person sessions, access course content and weekly communication online, while experiencing Hollywood North in Vancouver, one of most livable cities in the world.

Learning style

Online education designed around your values and lifestyle

100% Live Online

Offers the flexibility and freedom for parents and students to shape their education, learning from industry experts and from a trusted Canadian Accredited Education internationally recognized.
VANAS is a fully accredited Studio School designed to give students practical skills in workplace environments

Expand your online global network

Throughout your course of studies, you will meet with your teachers who are industry professionals, and you will interact with your peers who are like-minded individuals to expand your global network.

Benötigen Sie sofortige Hilfe?
Rufen Sie gebührenfrei an: +1 833-437-3872

Learning style

Online education designed around your values and lifestyle

100% Live Online

Offers the flexibility and freedom for parents and students to shape their education, learning from industry experts and from a trusted Canadian Accredited Education internationally recognized.
VANAS is a fully accredited Studio School designed to give students practical skills in workplace environments

Expand your online global network

Throughout your course of studies, you will meet with your teachers who are industry professionals, and you will interact with your peers who are like-minded individuals to expand your global network.

Onsite + Online Live Classes

• Small class sizes
• Two online live sessions per week, one hour per session
• One online live support class per week, one hour per session
• One online live homework class per week, 30 minutes per session
• One online live student networking session per day, one hour per session
• One in-person session per week, three hours per session

Assignments Workload

• Weekly assignments comprised by milestones and deadlines
• Synchronous and asynchronous online activities
• 20-25 hours per week

Schedules &
Class Times

• Class times are listed at the top of this website page
• Class times are also visible on the application form
• Flexible times for you to work and study at the same time

Online
Live Classes

• Small class sizes
• Two online live sessions per week, one hour per session
• One online live support class per week, one hour per session
• One online live homework class per week, 30 minutes per session
• One online live student networking session per day, one hour per session

Assignments Workload

• Weekly assignments comprised by milestones and deadlines
• Synchronous and asynchronous online activities
• 20-25 hours per week

Schedules &
Class Times

• Class times are listed at the top of this website page
• Class times are also visible on the application form
• Flexible times for you to work and study at the same time

Online
Live Classes

• Small class sizes
• One online live session per week, one hour per session
• One online live support class per week, one hour per session
• One online live homework class per week, 30 minutes per session
• One online live student networking class per day, one hour per session

Assignments Workload

• Weekly assignments comprised by milestones and deadlines
• Synchronous and asynchronous Online activities

Schedules &
Class Times

• Class times are listed at the top of this website page
• Class times are also visible on the application form
• Flexible times for you to work and study at the same time

Program Outline

Effects Animation Diploma

Term 1

Effects Software Foundations

This course introduces students to the fundamentals for creating computer generated visual effects. Various aspects and functionality of the high-end 3D effects software Houdini, Pyro and Mantra are reviewed. This results in learning the basics of 3D modeling, animation, rendering and compositing. The final outcome is learning how to incorporate the foundations of visual effects simulations in Houdini.

Duration: 3 months


Term 2

Effects Design

This course provides an introduction on how to technically manage a 3D visual effects project. The focus of the course is on learning how to ingest an asset and build a reusable technical effects rig. Students will learn how to create technical effects such as bullet shots in order to produce muzzle flash, tracer streaks and wall impacts.

Duration: 3 months

Term 3

Effects Production & Production Pipeline

This course provides an introduction to Expressions in Houdini. The focus of the course is on learning how to create procedural effects simulations. Students will learn how to edit Expressions within Houdini, in order to create complex simulations and procedural generation of clouds and forest.

Duration: 3 months

Term 4

Portfolio & Final Effects Projects

This course is a continuation of production techniques used in the technical effects pipeline. This final term advances the students’ knowledge and ability to create realistic technical effects. Students will learn through a series of milestones, how to complete two industry level effects shots, in order to achieve a finished demo reel.

Duration: 3 months

Term 1

Effects Software Foundations

This course introduces students to the fundamentals for creating computer generated visual effects. Various aspects and functionality of the high-end 3D effects software Houdini, Pyro and Mantra are reviewed. This results in learning the basics of 3D modeling, animation, rendering and compositing. The final outcome is learning how to incorporate the foundations of visual effects simulations in Houdini.

Duration: 3 months


Term 2

Effects Design

This course provides an introduction on how to technically manage a 3D visual effects project. The focus of the course is on learning how to ingest an asset and build a reusable technical effects rig. Students will learn how to create technical effects such as bullet shots in order to produce muzzle flash, tracer streaks and wall impacts.

Duration: 3 months

Term 3

Effects Production & Production Pipeline

This course provides an introduction to Expressions in Houdini. The focus of the course is on learning how to create procedural effects simulations. Students will learn how to edit Expressions within Houdini, in order to create complex simulations and procedural generation of clouds and forest.

Duration: 3 months

Course codes: FXTD-100, FXTD-200, FXTD-300, FXTD-400. Students must obtain a minimum grade of a B- (73%) to successfully pass the course. VANAS reserves the right to review and change without notice the curriculum design to meet the industry requirements.

Admission Requirements

The following is the minimum criteria for students eligibility

Age

High school graduate (with transcript), or 19 years of age or older

Assessment

Prospective students must successfully pass general the assessment test in our application form. The test assesses Computer Knowledge, Internet knowledge, English reading, and Writing skills.

Portfolio

For diploma programs, a portfolio must be submitted as part of the application.‍If students do not have a portfolio, they may earn their way to admission by successfully passing the Introduction to Digital Arts course with a minimum grade of B- (73%).

Click here to access the letter of intent.

English Proficiency

International students with English as a second language must demonstrate a good oral and written level of English. A telephone, video call, or in-person interview is required to verify English proficiency.

System Requirements

Students are responsible for supplying their own Computer Software and Hardware.
Academic discounts are available to our students.

Windows
software and hardware logo
12 GB RAM (16 GB recommended) Chrome internet browser
Adobe Creative Cloud
software and hardware logo
VANAS Students save 60%
Apple Mac
software and hardware logo
12 GB RAM (16 GB recommended) Chrome internet browser
Graphics Card
software and hardware logo
Recommended Graphics card: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 3 GB or better.
Internet
software and hardware logo
Broadband, High Speed connection 10 Mbps Download (Recommended) 1 Mbps Upload (Recommended)
Monitor
software and hardware logo
Computer Screen with a 1920 X 1080 display. 2 monitors are better.
Webcam
software and hardware logo
Students must keep their computer cameras on at all times unless directed otherwise. Students must be on-screen, visible, and present throughout each class. Students who do not or cannot turn their cameras on will be marked absent.
Houdini
software and hardware logo
Effects Animation Software
Maya
software and hardware logo
Free for VANAS Students
Nuke
software and hardware logo
Discounted for VANAS Students

Accredited. Trusted. Respected.

Private Training Institutions Branch

The Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education administers the Private Training Act and associated regulations.

Education Quality Assurance

The Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation is British Columbia’s brand for quality post-secondary education.

Canadian Information Center for International Credentials

The Canadian Information Center for International Credentials (CICIC) was established in 1990, after Canada ratified the UNESCO Convention on the Recognition of Studies.

EduCanada

A joint initiative of the provinces and territories, through the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC), and Global Affairs Canada.

Washington Education Training Board

Our strategic plan, Talent and Prosperity for All, details the state’s opportunities and workforce objectives while our performance reports enforce strict accountability measures that go beyond federal requirements, ensuring the state’s education and training programs receive an objective evaluation, meet Washington’s high performance goals, and offer a return on investment for taxpayers.

Invest in Something Extraordinary: You

Premium Higher Education with all-inclusive industry values. VANAS welcomes you, works for you, and cares for you.

1-Year Online Diploma

$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 USD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 CAD
$1,499 CAD
$499 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
A 12 months accredited diploma program that will take you on a semester-based learning journey. VANAS Diploma programs are career-focused with a learning methodology that will take you from foundations to development, to understanding; designed with an all-inclusive educational pedagogy.

See details

1-Year Combined Diploma

$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 USD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
$24,500 CAD
A 12 months accredited diploma program that will take you on a semester-based learning journey. VANAS Diploma programs are career-focused with a learning methodology that will take you from foundations to development, to understanding; designed with an all-inclusive educational pedagogy.

See details

1-Year Online Diploma

$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 USD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 CAD
$1,499 CAD
$499 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
A 12 months accredited diploma program that will take you on a semester-based learning journey. VANAS Diploma programs are career-focused with a learning methodology that will take you from foundations to development, to understanding; designed with an all-inclusive educational pedagogy.

See details

Effects Animation Diploma

$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 USD
$4,500 CAD
$4,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 USD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 USD
$1,499 CAD
$1,499 CAD
$499 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
$18,500 CAD
High School Students

$3,500

Combined Diploma (Online + Onsite)
Apply Now

VANAS Financing Plans

Choose the payment option that fits best your financial situation and lifestyle

Effects Animation Diploma

Payment
Option

A
B

Number of
Payments

1
3

Tuition
Due

$4,500
$1,620

Tuition
Total

$4,500
$4,860

Effects Animation Diploma

Dual Enrollment for High School Students

Payment
Option

A
B

Number of
Payments

1
3

Tuition
Due

$3,500
$1,260

Tuition
Total

$3,500
$3,780

Convenience Fees

When paying with a Credit Card, a non-refundable convenience fee from 4% - 6% of the total amount will be applied. A convenience fee, sometimes referred to as a credit or debit card "service fee" is established by third party credit or debit card issuers to cover the transaction costs of online purchases. If the payment is international, credit card processors take an additional 1% since it's considered cross-border.

Vancouver Animation School does not receive any portion of convenience or service fee payments. Additionally, these fees are subject to change by third party credit and debit card issuers.

To avoid convenience fees from credit card issuers, you can always use a flat fee payment method such as direct deposit, wire transfer, or use a flat fee processor such as World Remit.