Animation courses can help you learn character design, storyboarding, 2D and 3D animation techniques, and visual storytelling. You can build skills in timing, movement, and creating engaging narratives that resonate with audiences. Many courses introduce tools like Adobe After Effects, Blender, and Toon Boom Harmony, that support bringing your animated projects to life and enhancing your creative workflow.

Skills you'll gain: Storyboarding, Animations, Storytelling, Musical Composition, Motion Graphics, Video Editing
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Duke University
Skills you'll gain: Video Game Development, Animations, Event-Driven Programming, Animation and Game Design, Game Design, Storyboarding, 3D Assets, Programming Principles, Computer Graphics, Computer Programming, Scripting, Debugging
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skillshare
Skills you'll gain: Unreal Engine, Adobe After Effects, Motion Graphics, Animations, Multimedia, 3D Modeling, 3D Assets, Animation and Game Design, Logo Design, Cinematography, Video Editing, Computer Graphics, Adobe Illustrator, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Adobe Photoshop, Post-Production, Storyboarding, Photo/Video Production and Technology, Creative Design, Typography
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Epic Games
Skills you'll gain: Unreal Engine, Game Design, Video Game Development, Animation and Game Design, Ideation, 3D Modeling, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Software Design Documents, 3D Assets, User Experience Design, Computer Graphics, Usability, User Interface (UI), User Experience, User Interface (UI) Design, Interactive Design, Virtual Environment, Version Control, Conceptual Design, Prototyping
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

California Institute of the Arts
Skills you'll gain: Animation and Game Design, Animations, Game Design, Video Game Development, Design, Technical Design, Conceptual Design, Design Elements And Principles, Creative Design, Storytelling
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Adobe After Effects, Motion Graphics, Animations, Post-Production, Computer Graphic Techniques, Video Editing, 3D Assets, Timelines, Color Theory, Typography
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Canva (Software), Graphic and Visual Design, Graphic Design, Graphics Software, Graphical Tools, Animations, Content Creation, Social Media, Collaborative Software, Marketing
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

The University of Tokyo
Skills you'll gain: Visualization (Computer Graphics), Interactive Design, Computer Graphics, Computer Graphic Techniques, Human Computer Interaction, Animation and Game Design, User Interface (UI), Robotics, 3D Assets, Algorithms, Simulations
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: 3D Assets, 3D Modeling, Unreal Engine, Video Game Development, Computer Graphics, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Graphical Tools, File Management, UI Components, Design Software, Data Import/Export, User Interface (UI), Software Installation
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

IESE Business School
Skills you'll gain: Storytelling, Public Speaking, Oral Expression, Presentations, Verbal Communication Skills, Persuasive Communication, Content Creation, Drive Engagement, Writing, Non-Verbal Communication, Active Listening
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Customer Engagement, Canva (Software), Selling Techniques, Video Production, Presentations, Promotional Materials, Copywriting, Promotional Strategies, Multimedia, Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Value Propositions, Content Creation, Animations
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skillshare
Skills you'll gain: Adobe After Effects, Motion Graphics, Animations, Multimedia, Logo Design, Cinematography, Video Editing, 3D Modeling, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Computer Graphics, Creative Design, Typography, Graphical Tools, Graphic Design, File Management, Color Theory
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Animation is the process of creating the illusion of movement by displaying a series of individual frames or images in rapid succession. This art form is crucial in various fields, including entertainment, advertising, education, and gaming, as it brings stories and concepts to life. Animation enhances visual communication, making complex ideas more accessible and engaging for audiences. In today's digital landscape, understanding animation can also be a valuable skill for professionals looking to stand out in their careers.
A career in animation can lead to various job opportunities, including roles such as 3D animator, character designer, storyboard artist, motion graphics designer, and visual effects artist. These positions can be found in industries like film, television, video games, and advertising. As the demand for animated content continues to grow, professionals with animation skills are increasingly sought after, making it a promising field for those interested in creative storytelling and visual arts.
To succeed in animation, you need a blend of technical and creative skills. Key skills include proficiency in animation software (like Adobe After Effects, Blender, or Maya), a strong understanding of the principles of animation, storytelling abilities, and an eye for design. Additionally, skills in drawing, 3D modeling, and character development can enhance your capabilities. Continuous learning and practice are essential to stay updated with industry trends and techniques.
There are numerous online animation courses available that cater to different skill levels and interests. Some notable options include the Beginner After Effects: Logo Animation Specialization for those starting out, and the Become a 3D Animator: Build Your Dream Animation Career course for aspiring 3D animators. These courses provide structured learning paths and practical projects to help you develop your skills.
Yes. You can start learning animation on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in animation, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
Learning animation involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Start by selecting a course that aligns with your interests and skill level. Engage with the course materials, practice regularly, and work on personal projects to apply what you've learned. Joining online communities or forums can also provide support and feedback from fellow learners and professionals, enhancing your learning experience.
Animation courses typically cover a range of topics, including the fundamentals of animation principles, character design, storyboarding, and the use of various animation software. You may also learn about 2D and 3D animation techniques, motion graphics, and the integration of sound and visual effects. Advanced courses might explore into specialized areas like character movement in 3D environments or data-driven animation for specific applications.
For training and upskilling employees in animation, courses like 3D Animation in Unreal Engine: Create an Original Character and Animated Storytelling: Emotive Animation in Procreate Dreams are excellent choices. These courses focus on practical skills and real-world applications, making them suitable for professionals looking to enhance their animation capabilities in a workplace setting.