The Master’s degree in 3D Animation prepares students for careers in 3D character animation. This master’s degree aims to develop students’ creativity and sensitivity as well as their technical skills. Students experience the different aspects of the production chain of a 3D animated film, from storyboarding to post-production, with a particular focus on the techniques used to bring a 3D character to life. This know-how requires mastering the fundamental principles of animation, its theoretical and artistic foundations (good knowledge of anatomy and movements, for a realistic animation)… and developing an expertise in 3D
software.
ARTFX is a founding member of RECA, an association that currently includes 28 French animation film schools that are recognized by the industry, both in France and abroad.
ARTFX is a certified Houdini academic partner for the 2025-2026 school year.
1 class of 25 students is created yearly on each site
Course in French 🇫🇷 and in English 🇬🇧
More information
Awards the title of “digital producer”
The Master’s in 3D Character Animation is a 5-year programme designed to train professionals with a solid knowledge of acting, anatomy and movement, as well as a perfect command of the software used for 3D character animation. 3D animators trained at ARTFX can effectively work as soon as they leave the school, and are able to adapt to future technological developments. They also stand out for their creativity and their wealth of artistic knowledge. During their studies, students complete at least one internship lasting at least six weeks and benefit from masterclasses with partner studios. In the 5th year, they make an animated short film which is screened before a professional panel, giving them an understanding of the different production stages of an animated film from storyboarding to post-production.
The first year at ARTFX is a common core for all programs. It allows students to experiment through practice, discover their strengths, and make an informed choice about their specialization. Students gain an understanding of the production pipeline, work on collaborative projects, and learn to cooperate effectively.
›General 3D: modeling, rigging, texturing, lighting.
Fundamentals of 3D animation. Visual development: concept art, character design. Animation culture.
English
›Personal and team project
›3D character animation, rigging, acting
›Visual development: concept art, character design
›Directing and storytelling: script, storyboard, layout
›Project: production of a 3D animation short film in team
›Production of a professional demo tape
› Management of projects and teams
› Masterclasses with partner studios
›6-week min studio internship in a studio
›Advanced specialized workshops: character animation, acting
›Development of the Final Project
›Culture of production and trade
› Completion of a graduation team project: creation and production of a 3D animation short film for the final year of study
› Masterclass and conference / professional meetings
› Professional coaching in English
› Presentation to a professional jury
› Job dating
“An animator is an actor with a pencil”, Chuck Jones.
3D character animation involves learning the theoretical and artistic basics of animation – anatomy, body movements – through the practice of drawing and sculpting and sharpening your sense of observation. Learn to master acting (facial expressions, emotions, lip-synching with the voice, etc.). You’ll be introduced to character design (creating a character) and concept art (conveying an idea or an atmosphere through an illustration).
The first two years will allow you to experiment with 3D processes, including modeling, texturing, lighting, rigging and animation.
During the following three years you’ll focus on character animation, to reach the level required by the studios.
From blocking (defining the key poses of characters to build the animation plan) to the refine/spline phase, involving working frame by frame so that movements are fluid and executed based on the appropriate timing, master all the techniques required to bring a character to life.
Years 1 to 5 :
FeesI joined ARTFX to specialize in 3D Animation for 3 years. At the end of my studies, I immediately joined
Fortiche Animation in Montpellier. I first did an internship as a 3D Animator on season 2 of Arcane.
At the end of this internship I signed my first contract to animate the main characters of the series
and I still work there today.
