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Bring digital characters to life in just one semester. This intensive 30 ECTS online programme gives you creative and technical foundations in 3D animation, modelling, and rigging using industry-standard tools.
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Online Studies |
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12 January 2026 |
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1/2 year full time |
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Full time: NOK 49.000,- per semester |
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State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen) |
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how digital animation is created, from rigging automation to AI-assisted motion capture and character performance. In this programme, you’ll explore how these technologies enhance the animator’s workflow while still requiring strong artistic judgment and creative control. Students use AI tools for concept generation, timing references, and production efficiency, learning where automation adds value and where the artist’s intuition remains essential.
By combining traditional principles of movement and storytelling with modern AI-powered methods, you will graduate prepared to work in a creative industry increasingly shaped by intelligent tools and hybrid human–AI collaboration.
Animation is the art of movement - the magic that makes digital worlds feel alive. This one-semester programme introduces you to the creative and technical foundations to animate 3D characters for film, games, and digital media. You will learn the core principles of modelling, rigging, and animation using industry-standard tools such as Maya and ZBrush, while developing an understanding of how movement, timing, and character performance create believable animation.
The programme is project-based, meaning you learn by doing. Every assignment contributes to your portfolio. Whether you want to start your journey toward a bachelor’s degree in animation, reskill as a creative professional, or simply expand your artistic toolbox, this compact 30 ECTS programme delivers real production experience and career-ready skills.
This programme provides a foundation in digital animation. On its own, it prepares you for junior or support functions, as well as further study or career advancement. When combined with additional education or experience, it can lead to roles such as:
After completing the programme, you will understand the fundamental principles of animation and be able to apply them in 3D environments. You will be skilled in modelling, rigging, and animating characters using professional software such as Maya and ZBrush. You will also learn the basics of collaborative production, feedback iteration, and portfolio development. These skills prepare you for entry-level creative roles or for further studies within 3D animation, game development, or visual effects at bachelor level.
Learn the principles of movement, timing, and storytelling to bring 3D characters to life through animation.
Understand the foundations of asset creation and manipulation by building the digital skeletons that make characters move.
Work collaboratively on creative projects in a studio-style environment, developing project management and production skills through hands-on practice.
This half-year programme provides a foundation in the field or serves as a valuable addition to a student’s academic journey. While it can be integrated into the Bachelor's Degrees in Interactive Media Animation or Games, it does not directly replace any single semester, as it includes courses from multiple academic levels. Students earn ECTS credits.
| School: | Noroff University College |
| Application deadline: | Continuous admission. Applications are processed in the order they are submitted. |
| Language of instruction: | English |
| Accreditations: | Approved for loans and grants from the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). Accredited by NOKUT. |
| Unit: | Half-year Programme |
| Credits: | 30 ECTS |
Noroff has ongoing admissions, and applications are processed in the order they are received. The earlier you apply, the earlier you can secure a study place.
To qualify for the program, you must have general study competence. It is also possible to apply based on recognized prior learning.
For international students, depending upon which country you have received your education from, the requirements will differ. Please use this website where you can find the specific requirements for your country at the bottom of the page.
All our study programs are approved for loans and grants from the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). You can apply to the Loan Fund for basic support (loan and grant; NOK 166.859) and tuition fees (NOK 79,432).
As an adult student, you can receive loans and grants from the State Educational Loan Fund. This also applies if you work while studying.
As a main rule, you must be a Norwegian citizen to receive support from the Norwegian State Educational Fund. However, foreign citizens may also be entitled to financial support. Check here to see if you are eligible.
All our study programs are approved for loans and grants from the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). You can apply to the Loan Fund for basic support (loan and grant; NOK 166.859) and tuition fees (NOK 79,432).
As an adult student, you can receive loans and grants from the State Educational Loan Fund. This also applies if you work while studying.
As a main rule, you must be a Norwegian citizen to receive support from the Norwegian State Educational Fund. However, foreign citizens may also be entitled to financial support. Check here to see if you are eligible.
