Program Overview

Program Overview

The University Program in question is the "Production of VFX using SideFX Houdini" offered by the Center for Lifelong Learning of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh). This program aims to provide comprehensive training in the techniques of creating visual effects (VFX) using the SideFX Houdini software.

Program Details

• Duration: 31/01/2026 - 10/10/2026 (320 hours)
• Method of Implementation: Mixed method of teaching
• ECTS: 11
• Tuition Fees: 300
• Program Coordinator: Nicholas Alettras

Program Description

The program offers a detailed education in creating VFX with SideFX Houdini, ideal for professionals in the film, television, and video game industries, as well as for teachers looking to enhance their lessons with visual elements, simulations, and effects. Participants will gain practical skills through innovative methodologies, enhancing their professional profile. The program concludes with the award of a recognized Certificate of Training and provides points for the ASEP competitions of teachers.

Target Audience

1. Independent filmmakers or film school students who can utilize VFX in films and advertising video production.
2. Professionals in audiovisual content production aiming to expand their skills using SideFX Houdini.
3. Teachers of all specialties who wish to enrich their lessons with visual elements, simulations, and effects.

Selection Criteria

• Application for participation can be submitted by high school graduates, university graduates, and current students.
• Selection of trainees will be based on their CV.

Program Structure

The program will be implemented remotely with synchronous and asynchronous tele-education through the zoom and e-learning platforms. It includes 11 seminars using the zoom platform, and asynchronous tele-education will involve studying texts and audiovisual material on the AUTh e-learning platform, parallel to working on the educational version of the SideFX Houdini Apprentice program.

Curriculum

Obligations and Rights of Trainees

• Obligations:
  1. Participation in the programs of the Center implies full acceptance of the Study Guide of the program and the Internal Operating Regulation of the Center.
  2. The presence of trainees in educational programs is mandatory.
  3. For the successful completion of the program, participants must:
  • Not exceed 10% of the scheduled training hours in absences,
  • Have completed the prescribed work,
  • Have paid the total tuition fees by 1/9/2026.
• Rights:
  1. Trainees are informed by the Administrative Support Department of the Center about any information related to the operation of the Center.
  2. Trainees are supported electronically through the educational platform by the trainers, within the framework of the educational process, for the resolution of questions and the provision of clarifications related to the thematic units of the program.
  3. Trainees have the right to request the interruption of their participation in the program and the refund of tuition fees, according to the provisions of Article 12.9 of the Internal Operating Regulation of the Center.
  4. The works of trainees are protected by the provisions on intellectual property.

Certificate

After the successful completion of the program, participants are awarded a General Training Certificate, issued by the Center for Lifelong Learning of AUTh and signed by the President of the Center. For those who attended but did not complete the program, there is the possibility of providing a Certificate of Attendance.

Cost of Participation

The cost per trainee is 300 euros, payable either in a lump sum or in two equal installments, with the first installment accompanying the application for admission to the program and the second installment payable by 1/9/2026.