Digital Animation

Digital Animation

  • Study Facts
    • Area of Study
      Interactive Media
    • ECTS
      30
    • NQF Level
      Bachelor's degree (Level 6 1. Cycle)
    • Campus
      Online
    • Study Mode
      Full-time
    • Entry Requirements
      Entry Requirements
    • Study Programme Leader
      Erik Hammer
Introduction

Bring Characters to Life in 3D - Online Only

Animation is the art of movement - the magic that makes digital worlds feel alive. This 30 ECTS one-semester programme introduces you to the creative and technical foundations of 3D animation for film, games, and digital media. You will learn the core principles of movement, timing, and character performance while mastering the production tools professionals use every day: Maya and ZBrush. Through three integrated courses, you create models, sculpt, and animate 3D characters - developing both artistic sensibility and technical control. The programme is ideal for those who want to build a strong portfolio for further study or for creative professionals looking to expand their skill set into 3D animation. Students who complete this package may apply for admission to a full bachelor programme at NUC, with the 30 ECTS credited as part of their studies into the Bachelor in Interactive Media: Animation. Study when and where it suits you, with fixed assessment deadlines that keep you motivated and on track.

Why Choose This Programme? 

  • Animate from Day One: Learn by doing – from your first week you will be learning the foundational principles of animation and practicing them.
  • Industry Tools: Work with the same software used in professional animation and visual effects studios.
  • Portfolio-Focused: Each project contributes directly to your showreel and portfolio you can showcase to employers or universities / university colleges.
  • Compact and Practical: 30 ECTS in one semester, perfect for upskilling or preparing for a bachelor-level animation degree.
  • Creative Community: Work collaboratively in a supportive studio-like environment that mirrors professional production.

How It Works 

  • Project-Based Learning: Each course is structured around practical assignments and creative production.
  • Studio Environment: Learn through workshops, demonstrations, peer feedback, and mentoring.
  • Continuous Assessment: Progress is measured through projects, not exams - you are graded on creativity, technique, and presentation.

Who Should Apply 

  • Aspiring 3D animators, character artists, or motion designers.
  • Students seeking to build a portfolio for entry into bachelor-level animation or visual effects programmes.
  • Artists from related areas (illustration, graphic design, traditional art) wanting to transition into digital 3D work.
  • Professionals seeking to reskill for the expanding creative media industry.
Aims of the Degree Programme

What You Will Learn 

  • The core principles of animation and how to apply them in 3D.
  • Professional workflow in Maya for keyframing and character animation.
  • Fundamental 3D modelling and topology tailored for animation performance.
  • Character sculpting techniques in ZBrush, including anatomy and stylization.
  • Collaborative production processes and feedback-driven iteration.
  • Personal portfolio and showreel development showcasing your animation and modelling skills.

The programme serves as a recognised route into the Bachelor in Interactive Media: Animation.

Entry Requirements

For general admission it is required to document the following criteria as passed:

  • Higher Education Entrance Qualification, and
  • Candidates must be able to document proficiency in the English language.
    Language requirements by Samordna Opptak

For admission on basis of prior learning and work experience:
Admission based on prior experience requires a written application for evaluation. Applicable candidates must be at least 25 years of age in the year of admission.

For candidates with foreign education the requirements for Higher Education are:

  • The country must be recognized by NOKUT, specified in the GSU-list.
  • Candidates must be able to document proficiency in the English language.
    Language requirements by Samordna Opptak

For further information, please see the admission requirements: https://www.noroff.no/en/admission/admission-requirements

Opportunities for Further Studies

Bachelor in Interactive Media: Animation

Bachelor in Interactive Media: Games