| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
Advanced 3D Animation & 3D Modelling
About
Advanced 3D Animation & 3D Modelling is a full-time, two-year Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA) program focused on 3D Animation and 3D Modelling and its various departmental specializations, such as 3D animation (character and creature), rigging, 3D modelling & sculpting, and texturing/surfacing. The program also touches on the fundamentals of storytelling through acting and visual composition, look development and the basics of compositing. The program teaches students production, art, observation, critical review and soft skills to round out their skillset, teaches them how to interact with other disciplines, and enable students to prototype their own compositions and shots from concept through to completion.
While covering the 3D Animation and 3D Modelling processes, a multitude of industry standard software, tools, processes, and workflows are taught to the students. Students will create a body of portfolio ready shots, animations and models, and work either individually or collaboratively in small teams to produce finished portfolios.
The 3D Animation courses focus on animation principles, while integrating rigging, basic scripting, cloth simulation, body mechanics and animation for characters, inanimate objects and creatures. In the 3D Modelling courses, students will learn the latest industry techniques in the fields of hard surface modelling, sculpting, texturing and surfacing. While starting with the observation of traditional drawing and sculpting techniques, students will take these skills into their 3D models, environments and 3D animations. The integration of look development, shading and compositing fundamentals helps bring both 3D models and animations together for polished, final compositions.
The program is geared towards students who already have demonstrated a background in a creative or technical field. It is intended to empower artists with the creative and technical skills needed to enter the demanding 3D Animation, 3D Modelling, Visual Effects, and Games industries. Some graduates may also be eligible to bypass entry level roles for anyone interested in entering the 3D Animation, 3D Modelling, Visual Effects, and Games industries.
Admission Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- English 30-1, English 30-2 or equivalent
- Satisfactory results on the Bow Valley College Admission and Placement Test
- Portfolio submission of 15-20 pieces of artistic work (e.g. sketches, renderings, design variations) in digital format. Successful portfolios reflect a broad range of techniques, influences, styles, and subject matter. Submissions must represent the original work of the applicant; if an item is a collaborative piece, list all contributors and describe your contribution.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
For applicants whose first language is not English, please review English language proficiency requirements.
Academic Upgrading
Enhance your previous education to meet the missing admissions requirements for one of the BVC programs.
Available Intakes
- September 2025: Domestic - Open, International - Open
- January 2026: Domestic - Closed, International - Closed
Tuition and Fees
Domestic Students
| Term | Tuition Fees | Additional Fees | Total Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | $6,768 | $605 | $7,373 |
| Term 2 | $6,768 | $605 | $7,373 |
| Term 3 | $6,768 | $605 | $7,373 |
| Term 4 | $6,768 | $605 | $7,373 |
| Term 5 | $6,768 | $605 | $7,373 |
| Term 6 | $8,389 | $605 | $8,994 |
International Students
| Term | Tuition Fees | Additional Fees | Total Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | $10,468 | $605 | $11,073 |
| Term 2 | $10,468 | $605 | $11,073 |
| Term 3 | $10,468 | $605 | $11,073 |
| Term 4 | $10,468 | $605 | $11,073 |
| Term 5 | $10,468 | $605 | $11,073 |
| Term 6 | $15,931 | $605 | $16,536 |
Courses
Term 1
| Code | Course | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| VFXP1203 | Creative Development Foundations | 3 |
| VFXP1301 | Cinematics for Visual Effects | 3 |
| ANMO1101 | Introduction to Animation Principles and Techniques | 3 |
| ANMO1400 | Production Workflows: Behind the Scenes of Animation and VFX | 3 |
Term 2
| Code | Course | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANMO1203 | 3D Modelling I | 3 |
| ANMO1501 | Preproduction Principles for Animation | 3 |
| VFXP1501 | Adobe Photoshop Level I | 3 |
| VFXP1601 | Fundamentals of Texturing and Lighting for Visual Effects | 3 |
Term 3
| Code | Course | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PROD1104 | Year One Retrospective Portfolio | 3 |
| ANMO2101 | 3D Animation II | 3 |
| VFXP1704 | Foundations in Unreal Engine | 3 |
| VFXP1204 | Foundations in Houdini | 3 |
Term 4
| Code | Course | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANMO2500 | Capstone Development I: Planning for 3D Excellence | 3 |
| ANMO2301 | Storyboarding: Camera Language and Animatics | 3 |
| ANMO2201 | 3D Modelling II | 3 |
| ANMO2102 | Character Rigging | 3 |
Term 5
| Code | Course | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANMO2505 | Capstone Production II: Creating the Vision | 3 |
| ANMO2501 | Previs and Postvis | 3 |
| ANMO2202 | 3D Modelling III | 3 |
| ANMO2104 | Advanced Character Effects (CFX): Hair, Cloth, and Deformations | 3 |
Term 6
| Code | Course | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANMO2502 | 3D Animation and 3D Modelling Industry Project I: Preproduction | 3 |
| ANMO2503 | 3D Animation and 3D Modelling Industry Project II: Production | 4 |
| ANMO2504 | 3D Animation and 3D Modelling Industry Project III: Industry Presentation and Critique | 4 |
| ANMO2999 | 3D Animation and 3D Modelling Capstone Project: Review, Post-Mortem, and Portfolio | 5 |
Bow Valley College
Overview:
Bow Valley College is a public post-secondary institution located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It offers a wide range of programs and services to students, including diploma programs, certificates, apprenticeships, and continuing education courses. The college is known for its commitment to applied learning and its focus on preparing students for successful careers.
Services Offered:
Bow Valley College provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Services:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Financial Services:
Information and assistance with student loans, bursaries, and scholarships.New Student Orientation:
Programs and events to help new students transition to college life.Office of the Registrar:
Services related to registration, transcripts, and graduation.Learner Success Services:
Support for students with disabilities, mental health services, and other personal and academic support.Student Association:
A student-run organization that provides social and advocacy services.RGO Library and Learning Commons:
Access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, computers, and study spaces.Intercultural Centre:
Programs and services to support international students and students from diverse backgrounds.Iniikokaan Centre:
Services and resources for Indigenous students.Bookstore:
Textbooks, supplies, and other merchandise.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Bow Valley College offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities for student engagement, social activities, and community involvement. Students can participate in clubs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities. The college also has a strong focus on student support and provides a variety of resources to help students succeed.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Job-Ready Programs:
Bow Valley College's programs are designed to prepare students for in-demand careers.Applied Learning:
The college emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experience.Experienced Faculty:
Bow Valley College has a dedicated and experienced faculty who are committed to student success.Supportive Environment:
The college provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all backgrounds.Regional Campuses:
Students can access programs and services at regional campuses in Airdrie, Cochrane, and Okotoks.Academic Programs:
Bow Valley College offers a wide range of academic programs in various fields, including:
Entertainment Arts
Business
Technology
Community Studies
Health and Wellness
Careers in Immigrant Advancement
Continuing Education
Academic Upgrading
English Language Learning
Open Studies
Other:
Bow Valley College is recognized as one of the top 50 Research Colleges in Canada. The college's Research and Innovation department focuses on applied research, teaching excellence, curriculum design, and workforce development.
