Effects Foundations
Become an FX artist by building your industry skills at a Houdini Certified School
This course is designed for aspiring FX artists looking to master the fundamentals and graduate job-ready. Through hands-on training in SideFX Houdini, students learn key techniques for creating realistic explosions, destruction, water simulations, and more. The course emphasizes procedural workflows and node-based techniques, helping students develop skills in simulations, optimization, and scene creation.
Key Features:
- Learn the fundamentals of VFX using SideFX Houdini, the industry-standard software
- Get practical, hands-on experience creating professional-quality simulations
- Create a portfolio that showcases the high-quality work studios are hiring for
- Taught by industry professionals with experience on major films and games
By the end of the course, students will have the technical skills and portfolio-ready projects needed to pursue a career in VFX.
Master Your Skills. Master Your Future.
Our mission is to ensure graduates are the best trained and best prepared for a successful career in their chosen field.
Industry Mentors
Learn from the best! Our instructors are seasoned industry pros and bring real-world knowledge to the classroom, ensuring you're equipped with the skills that studios demand.
Outcomes
Our goal is to make you job-ready. You'll graduate with technical skills and a deep understanding of the industry, making you a valuable asset to any studio.
Community
Join an active community and network with peers, mentors, and industry professionals. Our strong industry connections can help you access job opportunities post-graduation.
Qualification
Industry certificate
Study Load
20hrs/week
Program Length
9 months
Delivery Mode
Online live classesCustom video lectures
Personalised mentor feedback
Skill Level
Beginner to Intermediate
No entry requirements
Start Dates
Your pathway to the film and games industry
The 9-month Foundations Course is the first half of our Career Track, helping you pave your pathway into the creative industries. Gain foundational skills and knowledge that will prepare you for advanced industry training.
Daniel Hourigan
Daniel is a senior Houdini FX artist with 15 years of experience working on blockbusters such as Terminator: Dark Fate, John Wick 3, Aquaman, The Wolverine, and Game of Thrones.
Known for John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum
Gyuri Kiss
Originally from Hungary, Gyuri's work has taken him all over the world: from Weta in Wellington, to Animal Logic in Sydney, Method in Melbourne, and now Mainframe in Vancouver.
Known for Mad Max: Fury Road
Kate Xagoraris
Kate is a VFX artist in the motion picture industry. She primarily works with Houdini, and in her spare time runs a blog based on incorporating scientific ideas in VFX, and general Houdini tips.
Known for The Boys
Jorge Razon
With almost 2 decades in the industry, VFX Supervisor Jorge has more than 50 credits to his name including Game of Thrones, Wonder Woman and Tomb Raider.
Known for Umbrella Academy
Ben Fox
Ben's worked on high-profile commercials and Unreal Engine VR experiences for projects like Game of Thrones, Interstellar and Ready Player One.
Known for Interstellar VR
Claire Pegorier
Claire has more than 25 years' experience as an FX artist for films and games on projects like Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, X-Men First Class, and Clash of the Titans.
Known for Passengers
Get The Education Your Deserve
"CG Spectrum is my ideal way of learning.
With mentors active in the industry keeping you on track with industry-proven skills and workflows, you know you're not wasting your time. You get what you put into this course and there isn't such thing as being too keen. I couldn't be happier with the progress and skills I've gained since starting."
Ben N | Visual Effects
"The flexibility and online approach really worked for me.
Having a mentor who works in the industry facilitated both guidance and support in the weekly submissions. Their critiques guided my skill set and put me in front of the competition by helping me learn to troubleshoot from my mistakes. "
Vince B | Visual Effects
"I went from knowing nothing about FX, to receiving job offers within 6 months of study with CG Spectrum!
I was blown away by the level of personal interaction the 1-on-1 mentorship provides. Having a direct line to an industry veteran as my mentor has been an invaluable resource and has taken my rate of learning to the next level.
Kristian K | Visual Effects
"My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner!
I found the experience to be very beneficial. My mentor helped me accelerate my learning with our weekly meetings. Once I completed the course, I was left with great portfolio pieces for my showreel and given free ongoing help from a Career Development Manager, who helped me polish my resume and LinkedIn profile to help kickstart my career. "
Reed Y | Visual Effects
"Hands down the best decision I've made for my career.
The learning material and staff were great, and having an industry mentor was an invaluable asset that really helped me get my break in the VFX industry."
Alan R | Visual Effects
"I’m not only learning the essentials of VFX but also key networking tips from my mentor.
I started CG Spectrum with no experience in visual effects. In my opinion, the education with CG Spectrum is the closest to giving me actual industry experience since I’m working alongside an industry vet while being taught the fundamentals of my trade. I can comfortably say I have more of a "peer to peer" relationship rather than "teacher to student", making it really easy to share my work and expect solid criticism."
Subhan A | Visual Effects
"The CG Spectrum training solidified my skills using Unreal Engine.
Having used it briefly before, and feeling overwhelmed by how big the range is of what you can do using the engine, the training taught me the areas I would need for virtual production very well. I now feel confident with the skills I have gained."
Simran M | Real-Time 3D & Virtual Production
"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."
Stephanie S | 3D Modeling
Join Our Alumni at World Class Studios
Our mission is to train highly skilled graduates ensuring they are prepared for a successful career. Take the first step towards joining our alumni at world-class studios creating work that inspires.
Looking For Something Else?
Check out our full range of courses with study options for all skill levels, from short introductory courses, specialized industry tracks and accredited degrees and diplomas
