The Best 6 Free 3D Animation Courses

This list was compiled by a global team of animators. They have done extensive research and created this useful guide to the 6 best 3D Animation courses, classes, programs, tutorials, and certifications available online. These online resources are perfect for beginners, intermediates and experts. Many professionals and students have already benefited from this list.

1. 3D Animation Courses Online (Udemy)

These courses are taught by experienced instructors and designed to teach you 3D animation. You will learn about Blender*, 3D modeling and animation. Each of these classes is covered by a 30-day refund guarantee. The curriculum is short and engaging, perfect for all levels. These courses are very reasonably priced on Udemy. You will receive a certificate of completion once you have completed the courses.

Features and Benefits:

• You do not need any prior animation experience to start;
• Learn to use powerful tools that make objects dynamic and automatic without any code;
• Learn how to build great 3D apps with Apple's framework;
• Learn the basics of After Effects, Photoshop and other software;
• A comprehensive guide to how to model, animate, texture and render your own 3D models and scenes;
• Get solid solutions for executing architectural animation tasks.

* If you are interested in more 3D Blender courses then take a look at this list BestBlenderCourses.com of this software.

2. 3D and Visual Effects Courses (PluralSight)

These online courses, available on PluralSight will teach you how to create visual effects no matter what your level of expertise. You will receive expert-led instruction in matchmoving and compositing as well as video editing, scripting and motion graphics. Instructors will teach you the most popular platforms in the industry, such as Nuke Maya After Effects Fusion and many more. Joining these classes is a great choice if you've ever wanted to start your career in this booming industry. They are also free for 10 full days.

Features and Benefits:

• Get training for beginners to experts in the industry;
• Learn how to bring your 3D designs to life with a 3D printer;
• Learn character design theory and development;
• Understand great designer fundamentals;
• Ideal for graphic artists;
• Excellent introductory course for Cinema 4D Lite;
• Learn how to use Illustrator CC with 3D;
• Find out more about Unity VR and Unity Lighting.

3. 3D Animation Courses & Training (LinkedIn Learning -- Lynda)

Want to be a successful animator? Want to learn how to create visual effects for animation? Joining these online classes is beneficial to you. You will gain knowledge about the digital, graphical and technical aspects of animation by joining these classes. Your instructors will teach you the most important software, such as Maya Flash and Max. Joining them will not only help you develop your career, but will also allow you to improve your skills. You can easily access the video lectures and study materials online.

Features and Benefits:

• Build strong fundamentals to start your career;
• The best introductory course to 3D animation;
• Learn great tips, techniques and tricks on animation;
• Designed to help you master Houdini;
• All levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced;
• For 1 month, you can access all of these programs for free via LinkedIn.

4. 3D Certification Courses (Coursera)

These classes are perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about 3D animation or improve their skills. These classes are taught by top universities, including University of London and Michigan State University. All these tutorials are structured and interactive. You can also attend these tutorials from anywhere in the world. These interactive learning programs will provide you with great insight on 3D Animation Fundamentals.

Features and Benefits:

• Excellent opportunities to learn different topics such as computer science and life sciences;
• The courses are available in English, Russian and Spanish;
• Learn how to set up characters;
• Learn about game development and design;
• Be able to program NPCs;
• Learn valuable tips and tricks on 3D Animation;
• Many assignments and projects that will improve your skills;
• You can choose from a range of highly rated courses.

5. Online 3D Animation Classes & Tutorials (SkillShare)

Animation is an art form that every graphic designer must learn. You can learn how to make stunning images using computers by taking these online courses on SkillShare. You can learn a variety of skills by joining these courses, including animation, 3D Design, 3D Computer Graphics, Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D. You will learn animation starting from scratch. These tutorials have been used by many students.

Features and Benefits:

• Sign up for these programs to stay updated on the latest technology and trends;
• Step by step guide to 3D Animation;
• Know the basics about Cinema 4D;
• Improve your career by mastering 3D animation techniques;
• How to make your first walking character;
• Learn how to create an animated movie;
• Understand the basics of game design;
• Exclusive training with top instructors.

6. Fundamentals 3D Visualization from IIT Bombay by EdX

This comprehensive program is available on edX and is perfect for learning 3D basics on how to create 3D models and animations using an open source animation software tool, Blender. This tutorial will give you an overview of the basic concepts in animation, lighting and texturing. You will receive great training from the instructor on different areas such as interactive gaming, architectural design, educational technology and advertising. The course will include quizzes, hand-on assignments, elegantly edited and slow-paced video tutorials, and other activities that will enhance your skills.

Features and Benefits:

• Understand animation principles such as timing, spacing, squashing and stretching;
• Understanding the 3D concepts;
• The perfect course for developing skilled Blender resources;
• Start your career and improve your skills as a 3D animation;
• The instructors will teach you how to transform fragile ideas into reality;
• Be a master in 3D concept creation and ideation.

This is our list of the Best 3D Animation Training, Classes, Certifications and Courses available online. You may be interested to check out our other courses on visual effects and designing along with these courses.

Happy learning!