M.A. in Rigging & Character FX
Program Overview
The Master's in Rigging and CFX program provides comprehensive training in character creation and development for film, television, and advertising. Students learn modeling, shading, rigging, and character FX techniques from industry professionals. The program offers both in-campus and online options, and graduates are prepared for careers as riggers, character TDHs, hair simulators, grooming artists, and more.
Program Outline
Outline:
- Course 1
- Digital sculpture
- Body modeling for rigging and animation
- Facial modelling for rigging and animation
- Lighting
- Shading
- Introduction to Rigging. Basic Concepts. Philosophy. Tools
- Body Rigging I. Basic Rigging Structures
- Body Rigging II. Advanced Structures
- Scripting for Rigging
- Deformation I. Skin systems. Conceptualization. Technology
- Deformation II. Drive Morphers. Corrective Systems
- Human and Animal Anatomy. Body Mechanics
- Rigging Facial: Fundamentals, Structure and Design of Facial Systems
- Dark Rig
- Dynamic Rigging
- Muscles
- Fabric Modeling. Fabric Rigging
- Fabric Pattern Making. Marvelous Designer
- Hair Systems. Grooming and Shading
- Fabric Simulation. Techniques and Processes. Blendshapes. Collisions
- Hair Simulation. Techniques and Processes. Dynamics. Collisions
- Simulations and Tools in Houdini
- Xgen Finaling and Flat Work
- MASTER'S THESIS
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods: The program is taught in-campus or online.
- Faculty:
- David Míguez Blanco, Director of the Master’s in Rigging and CFX. Animation Degree teacher; Rigging Supervisor at Skydance Animation Madrid
- Jaime Bescansa Gascón, Fabric Modelling and Rigging, Fabric Pattern Making, Fabric Simulation and Hair Simulation teacher; Char FX Lead, 3D Tailor Marvelous Designer
- Silvia Montes de la Rosa, Grooming teacher; Lead Character FX Artist at Skydance Animation Madrid
- Noela Leis Sestayo, Lighting teacher; Senior Lighting Artist at Able & Baker Studios
- Antonio Méndez Lora, Rigging Facial teacher; Lead Rigger at Able & Baker Studios
- Unique Approaches: The program is designed to approach the disciplines of modeling, shading, rigging and character FX from different perspectives and working methods. This is to best provide our students with the necessary tools to create characters for film, television and advertising audiovisual projects. Our students receive a holistic understanding of the entire process of character creation and development.
Careers:
- Rigger
- Character TDH
- Hair Simulator
- Grooming Artist
- Character Animator
- CFX Artist
- Fabric or muscle simulator
- Tailoring Artist
U-tad University of Technology Arts and Design
Overview:
U-tad University of Technology Arts and Design is a private university located in Madrid, Spain. It specializes in digital education, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields like animation, video games, digital design, and computer science. U-tad is known for its focus on practical skills and industry connections, preparing students for successful careers in the digital world.
Services Offered:
Academic Programs:
U-tad offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various digital fields.Student Information:
The university provides resources and support for students, including academic advising and career services.Campus Services:
U-tad offers various campus services, including a library, computer labs, and student clubs.Research Projects:
The university encourages research and innovation, offering opportunities for students to participate in research projects.Employment and Internships:
U-tad assists students in finding internships and jobs through career fairs and networking events.International Student Exchange:
U-tad facilitates international student exchange programs, allowing students to study abroad and gain global perspectives.Student Life and Campus Experience:
U-tad provides a vibrant and international campus environment. Students have access to various student clubs and organizations, fostering a sense of community and allowing them to pursue their interests. The university also organizes events and activities throughout the year, enriching the student experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Industry-Focused Curriculum:
U-tad's curriculum is designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the digital industry.Strong Industry Connections:
The university has strong partnerships with leading companies in the digital sector, providing students with internship and job opportunities.Award-Winning Faculty:
U-tad boasts a faculty of experienced professionals and academics, providing students with high-quality instruction and mentorship.Modern Facilities:
The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including computer labs, studios, and workshops, providing students with the tools they need to excel in their chosen fields.International Environment:
U-tad attracts students from around the world, creating a diverse and multicultural learning environment.Academic Programs:
U-tad offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the following areas:
Computer Science:
Software Engineering, Computational Physics, Mathematics and Software EngineeringAnimation:
Animation, 3D Animation, VFXDigital Design:
Digital Design, Graphic Design, UX/UI DesignVideo Games:
Interactive Design of Products and Video Games, Game Design, Game DevelopmentOther:
U-tad is a partner of the Universidad Camilo José Cela and the Software Center of Excellence. The university is also a Rookies Certified School, recognizing its commitment to providing high-quality education in the digital arts.
Entry Requirements:
- Students with general 3D training who wish to deepen their knowledge of 3D character development in any of the three main areas of the program.
- Designers, illustrators, or animators who want to change paths to 3D characters creation.
