Certificate
12 weeks
20 hrs weekly
Beginner
Basic computer skills and min. computer specs
Weekly online classes, feedback and support
Maya, Substance Painter
Jun 3, 2024
In this online 3D modeling short course, you'll learn how to create realistic props and assets using Maya and Substance Painter. You'll be mentored by an industry expert with years of experience working on blockbuster films and best-selling video games.
3D modelers create CG representations of objects which are then animated or have VFX applied to them, and used in film and games. It's an exciting career path where no two days are the same.
This short course is the perfect way to learn 3D modeling basics. It also forms term one of the full 3D Modeling Course, so if you decide to continue, you'll be one-third of the way through!
Learn 3D Modeling Essentials starting with the essentials: navigating Maya’s interface, understanding professional workflows, commonly used tools, and building 3D assets from scratch. Identify differences between film and video game models by learning high poly 3D modeling techniques, then converting it for video games, and adding textures in Substance Painter.
The most affordable way to learn from top industry mentors in a fun, collaborative environment, while still getting plenty of personalized feedback.
Progress faster and enjoy more flexiblity with private mentorship. Ideal for busy schedules, career-changers, or artists upgrading skills or changing specialties.
(3 x payments)
Save 10%
(1 x payment)
(3 x payments)
Save 10%
(1 x payment)
We understand the unique needs of students pursuing careers in creative industries. That's why we offer curated course bundles that align with specific career paths or skill development goals. These bundles are designed to provide comprehensive training while offering cost savings compared to enrolling in individual courses.
To be the best, it helps to learn from the best. All 3D modeling classes are taught by industry mentors with years of experience at top studios working on feature films and video games.
Bryan's award winning experience includes lead positions at ILM and Rhythm & Hues working films like The Golden Compass, Rango, Pacific Rim, and Transformers 2 and 3.
Curriculum Manager of 3D Modeling
Known for Pacific Rim
First a texture artist at Nickelodeon, then a 3D character artist at Gameloft, Anton is ahead of the curve when using emerging software for real-time graphics and film production.
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Penguins of Madagascar
David is a Lead Hard Surface Modeler and Career Coach at DNEG and has worked on projects including Snowpiercer, Enola Holmes, and Moonfall.
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Enola Holmes
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for The Batman
Dept. Head of 3D Modeling
Known for Redfall
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Jungle Cruise
Before becoming the senior environment artist on Apex Legends, Matt worked at EA, Digital Domain, ILM, MPC, Method and Cinesite on films like Aquaman, Ratchet & Clank and triple-A game FIFA 2017.
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Aquaman
ILM Modeler and Digital Artist, Hamza's worked on blockbusters like Ford v Ferrari, Spider-Man: Far from Home, Captain Marvel, Tomb Raider, Thor: Ragnarok and Logan.
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Captain Marvel
Mentor of 3D Modeling
Known for Batman: Arkham Knight
Explore the answers to commonly asked questions about the 2D Animation Essentials course.
To be successful in this program you will need basic computer skills and a computer that meets the minimum specifications (see next question).
Software:
Students can sign up for an educational license for Autodesk Maya and Substance Painter. Instructions for how to obtain an educational license for the required software will be provided upon enrollment.
Hardware:
You will need a dedicated graphics card, and a computer that meets the minimum requirements for Autodesk Maya and Substance Painter. A minimum of 32GB RAM is ideal.
Please note: as the software we use is regularly updated, please check the specs against the latest available version at the time of enroling.
Studying 3D modeling can open up a variety of career paths in the entertainment industry.
This short 3D modeling course will get started on your journey, but in a competitive industry, continuing your studies with the full 3D modeling study pathway (3D Modeling Foundations and 3D Modeler Specicalization) will better prepare you for a job in the industry and help increase your employment opportunities.
The advanced course covers more complex techniques and includes an entire term dedicated to career development and portfolio preparation to get you industry-ready.
Some of the junior 3D modeling jobs you could pursue after completing the full study pathway include:
Discover more about these 3D modeling jobs, tips, and salary expectations on our careers page:
I have nothing but positive things to say about my experience at CG Spectrum.
I recently finished Introduction to 3D Modeling course. I went in with about a year’s worth of other online 3D modeling courses, but nothing compared to CG Spectrum. I learnt so much from this course, and I had an amazing mentor (Anton Tenitsky) who pushed me to perfection. It was the best decision I made in order to pursue my end goal. I took the next step and enrolled in the advanced course!
CG Spectrum seemed too good to be true. Looking back, it was the best decision.
Every mentor and staff member has been so hands-on and directly involved in my learning. Co-Directors of top box office movies and supervisors of major Netflix TV shows are giving me feedback on my projects. Students also have access to a strong community, and an awesome career class to prepare you for your dream job.
You're not just another number.
I always dreamed of breaking into the entertainment industry and since joining CG Spectrum I realised it's not an unachievable dream. CG Spectrum has a way of mentoring students that I hadn't experienced before. My mentor was always pushing me in order to become industry-ready. Mentors are always available for feedback and take a proactive approach to teaching. Studying online makes for a more dedicated and uninterrupted learning experience.
I've just accepted an internship role at Pixar!
As my final semester of the Advanced 3d Modeling course is coming to an end, I've just accepted an internship role at Pixar! I've learned so much over the past year and am thrilled to have the skills now to make a career change for my dream job. I'm excited to begin this new phase of my journey—thanks so much CG Spectrum!
One of the best learning experiences of my life.
In less than a year I was able to achieve results I could never imagine!
The course material covers a lot in a shorter time frame.
I was really happy with the constructive feedback given to me by my mentor for a 1-on-1 Introduction to 3D Modeling program. The industry tips and workflows recommended helped me get a more robust understanding of workflow fundamentals. I'd recommend CG Spectrum for the calibre of training.
Study options for all skill levels, from short introduction courses, specialized industry tracks and accredited programs