ACADEMY YEAR 2

Find your path and achieve your goals in the 3D industry

TRANSFORM YOUR GAME IDEAS INTO REALITY

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Experience required

Academy Year 1

Duration

12 months

Dedication

14 hours / week

Format

Online with 1 on 1 mentorship

Price

7,380$

Program overview

After completing Academy Year 1, you become eligible to enroll in Academy Year 2. This is where the magic happens and you will define yourself as an artist. In the 3D world, certain obstacles need to be overcome to progress, and this is where you will break through your own walls. You will begin to discover your personal style and develop a distinct identity. Consistency is key, as you must practice diligently and maximize your software proficiency. This will help you understand that software is simply a tool and prevent you from becoming reliant on it. This understanding will prove invaluable in your future career, as you will face different challenges that you will need to overcome.

The M3DS Academy Year 2 is a 12 month program designed to help you discover your true calling in the 3D industry. Through the program, you'll have the opportunity to explore different areas of specialization, including Sculpting, Rigging, Animation, Environment Design, Texture Artistry, Visual Coding, and more. Whether you become a specialist or a generalist, we'll help you find the right path.

We'll start by focusing on three main software tools, Unreal Engine 5, Maya, Zbrush, and Substance Painter, and teach you how to optimize your workflow from the beginning. You'll also learn how to communicate effectively with software, explore the pipelines for games and movies, and gain invaluable insights into the industry's best practices.

community driven

Where you'll have the opportunity to interact with all the students enrolled in any academic course.

Unlimited access

to classes 24/7, indefinitely.

Portfolio Promotion

M3DS Social media and internationally.

Master Classes

For further advancement.

1on1
Mentorship

on Discord at any time Mon-Friday.

Academy Year 2
Structure and Format

Module 1

Crafting Realistic Elements

The second year begins with a dedicated focus on mastering realism in 3D artistry. During this month, you'll delve into creating lifelike hair in Maya and Zbrush, exploring advanced rigging techniques, and simplifying the texturing process using ID maps. Additionally, you will hone your skills in realistic face painting. The aim is to provide you with a strong foundation in crafting the most authentic and detailed 3D elements.

FRAMEWORKS

Maya

Advanced techniques for hair and fur creation
In-depth exploration of rigging principles
Effective utilization of ID maps for texturing
Mastery of hard surface armor modeling

Substance Painter

Introduction to Textures and Materials
Techniques for achieving photorealistic face painting

Zbrush

Comprehensive training in hair creation
Utilization of ID maps
Hard surface armor sculpting techniques

Module 2

Advancing in Rigging and Sculpting

In the second month of Year 2, you will continue your exploration of advanced rigging techniques. You'll learn about the intricacies of complex rigging for characters and weapons. Furthermore, you'll delve into the critical concept of anchor points for texturing, honing your skills in leather texturing. The month also introduces you to the fascinating art of sculpting monstrous creatures and characters, enhancing your ability to breathe life into your digital creations.

FRAMEWORKS

Maya

Comprehensive understanding of complex rigging for characters and weapons
Advanced Skinning
Referencing and Studio Library

Substance Painter

Practical application of anchor points for texturing
Expertise in leather texturing

Zbrush

In-depth training in sculpting monstrous creatures and characters
3D Printing

Module 3

Animation and Rendering

The third month of Year 2 represents a pivotal moment in your artistic journey. You'll be introduced to the dynamic world of animation, with an exclusive master class led by the renowned Darko Mitev. Additionally, you'll learn to harness the power of scanned textures to create strikingly realistic heads and faces. The month also covers advanced rendering techniques with Arnold and provides a comprehensive understanding of rendering software Marmoset Toolbag. This holistic approach aims to elevate your skills in animation and rendering to new heights.

FRAMEWORKS

Marmoset

Marmoset:
A comprehensive introduction to rendering
In-depth exploration of lighting and rendering for hard surfaces and hair

Maya

Rigging principles applied to cars and quadrupeds
Mastery of the Graph Editor
Creating idle animations and walk cycles
Introduction to Animbot
Utilization of Wrap 3D for character modeling
Advanced rendering techniques with Arnold

Darko Mitev's Master Class

Immersive animation training under the guidance of a distinguished expert

Module 4

Embracing Unreal Engine

The fourth month of Year 2 marks your return to Unreal Engine, which plays a pivotal role in modern 3D artistry. This month is entirely dedicated to Unreal Engine and its comprehensive features. You'll learn the intricacies of importing and exporting assets, mastering the art of creating versatile master materials, designing landscapes, implementing foliage, fine-tuning lighting, cameras, and post-processing effects, and getting introduced to the revolutionary concept of metahumans.

FRAMEWORKS

Unreal Engine

In-depth understanding of importing and exporting assets
Proficiency in crafting versatile master materials
Landscape design and creation
Expertise in foliage integration
Advanced techniques in vertex painting
Mastery of the Niagara particle system
Application of the Spline tool for enhanced creativity
Comprehensive exploration of lighting techniques, camera management, and post-processing effects
Introduction to metahumans, the future of character design

Module 5

Crafting a Full Environment

The fifth month ushers in a comprehensive exploration of creating entire 3D environments from inception to completion. You will embark on a journey that involves blockout, sculpting, modeling, texturing, blueprint creation, world building, and rendering. The emphasis is on building holistic skills in environment creation.

FRAMEWORKS

Environment Pipeline

Blockout techniques for efficient design
Sculpting and modeling for realistic environments
In-depth texturing methods
Blueprint creation and management
World building strategies for immersive environments
Advanced rendering techniques
Exploration of assets and resources in the Unreal Engine Marketplace

Module 6

Mastering Environment Concept Art

In the sixth month, you will embark on the journey to master environment concept art. This involves mastering the art of gathering references, creating grayscale sketches, working with grayscale values, rendering your concepts, adding intricate details, and perfecting the art of presenting your environment designs in a professional and captivating manner.

FRAMEWORKS

Environment Concept Art

Expertise in reference gathering for environments
Proficiency in creating impactful grayscale sketches
Skillful management of grayscale values to define environmental aesthetics
Rendering of concept art to bring ideas to life
Detailed and polished presentation of environmental designs

Module 7

Portfolio Project - Environment

The seventh month marks a significant milestone as you embark on your fourth portfolio project. Here, you will apply the skills and knowledge acquired over the past six months to create your unique and compelling environment. This project serves as a testament to your growth and capabilities as a 3D artist.

FRAMEWORKS

Portfolio Project - Environment

Comprehensive planning and conceptualization
Detailed modeling and texturing
Blueprint design and implementation for interactive elements
Strategic world building and scene composition
Advanced rendering techniques for breathtaking visuals

Module 8

Portfolio Project - Environment Continues

The eighth month continues to focus on your portfolio project, providing you with the time and resources to refine and polish your environment creation further. This extended period ensures that your project reaches the highest level of quality and detail. Here is where you are going to showcase your skills in front of the world.

FRAMEWORKS

Portfolio Project - Environment

Ongoing development and refinement of your portfolio piece
Creative enhancements to elevate your work
Fine-tuning of rendering for exceptional visual impact
Revisions from the Mentors
Portfolio publishing
Promoting your portfolio

Module 9

Cropout - A Game Development Showcase

Cropout represents a significant milestone in your journey, offering you the opportunity to delve into the realm of game development. This top-down Casual RTS game sample project showcases best practices for creating games designed for cross-platform release. With its family-friendly farming style, Cropout is suitable for beginners, educators, and anyone eager to learn the intricacies of this genre.

FRAMEWORKS

Game Development Showcase

Implementation of UE5 features for cross-platform gameplay
Integration of a common UI for seamless user experience
Enhanced input systems for responsive controls
Mastery of geometry scripting for game mechanics

Module 10

Game Development Continues

The tenth month is dedicated to furthering your expertise in game development. You'll explore advanced aspects of UE5, including the integration of custom assets, optimization techniques, and packaging for mobile and PC platforms. This comprehensive training ensures that you are well-prepared to create engaging and immersive gaming experiences.

FRAMEWORKS

Game Development Continues

Integration of custom assets for unique gameplay elements
Advanced utilization of common UI components
Enhancement of input systems for improved gameplay mechanics
Optimization strategies for optimal performance on various platforms

Module 11

Mini Game With Own Environment and Characters

In the eleventh month, you will leverage your accumulated knowledge and skills to create a mini-game set within the environment you've crafted. This project allows you to apply your artistic and technical expertise to the development of a captivating interactive experience.

FRAMEWORKS

Mini Game Development

Integration of your own environment into the mini-game
Integration of your own Characters
Development of engaging gameplay elements
Implementation of game mechanics tailored to your artistic vision

Module 12

Culmination and Portfolio Mastery

The twelfth and final month of Year 2 signifies a momentous achievement in your artistic journey. This is where you bring all your skills, creativity, and dedication together to finalize your mini-game project. As you perfect your game, you also lay the foundation for your professional portfolio. Each element is meticulously crafted to showcase your exceptional talent, whether it be in character modeling, environment design, or game development.

Your portfolio is not just a collection of artworks; it is your passport to the international stage. With the guidance of our mentors and instructors, you will learn the art of promoting your portfolio to a global audience. Your remarkable artistry will shine brightly, capturing the attention of industry professionals, potential clients, and fellow artists.

This month's culmination sets the stage for your specialization journey in Year 3, where you will venture into the world of 3D cinematic creation, crafting your unique and captivating short films. Your portfolio becomes the launchpad for your specialized path, ensuring you stand out as a 3D artist with immense potential and creativity.

FRAMEWORKS

Portfolio Mastery

Finalization and perfection of your mini-game project
Crafting a captivating and diverse portfolio
Promotion and international exposure of your portfolio
Receipt of certifications and diplomas

Year 3 Specialization & Advisory

Personalized mentoring to help define your specialization path
Guidance on selecting sectors and styles that align with your talents and interests
Preparation for the specialized journey into 3D cinematic creation

ACADEMY YEAR 2 STUDENTS' PORTFOLIO

After completing the program, you'll be ready to work in any industry that requires 3D expertise. We'll help you create a personalized plan to achieve your goals, follow your passion, and succeed in the career you've always dreamed of.

If your passion lies in creating games or 3D animated films, we invite you to enrol in our specialized program, Academy 3. Here, you'll start finalizing your portfolio with the support of our experienced team of instructors and mentors. We'll provide you with all the necessary resources and even grant you a full scholarship for the Academy year 4 to help you take your career to the next level.

Discover
the Perfect Financing Solutions for You

Combine Academy Year 1 and Year 2 for a 5% discount. Pay in full for an extra 10% off. Maximize your 3D journey while saving big. Join today!

Enjoy the flexibility of spreading your payments over a maximum of 24 monthly installments without any additional fees.

1,155$

PRICE FOR 16 INSTALLMENTS

Available
terms

Begin your journey to further upskilling
and secure your spot today!

Graduate from A1

Enrollment for

Payments

Up to 24 installments

13,860$

Price A1&A2

Apply Now

Frequently
Asked
Questions

What educational format does M3DS Academy provide?

At M3DS Academy, we exclusively offer a self-paced learning format. This means that students have the flexibility to access our comprehensive courses and resources at their own convenience, anytime and anywhere. You can learn and progress through our programs without the constraints of fixed schedules, allowing you to tailor your education to your individual needs. Our self-paced format empowers you to take control of your learning journey in the exciting world of digital creativity. What Are the Primary Advantages of Self-Paced Learning with One-on-One Mentorship? With our self-paced learning approach complemented by one-on-one mentorship, you can ensure you never miss a class. In traditional settings, students who miss classes often experience a performance gap due to the industry-standard nature of our program. We believe that consistent and flexible learning is the key to a comprehensive educational experience.
What software does M3DS Academy teach?

We offer cutting-edge education in industry-standard software, ensuring that our students are equipped with the latest skills and tools required to thrive in the digital arts and 3D industries. Our comprehensive curriculum covers a range of software, including Autodesk Maya, Zbrush, Unreal Engine 5, and Substance Painter. This extensive training allows our students to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and industry trends, giving them a competitive edge as they embark on their careers in the world of 3D and Games.
Is there an option to join the Academic program independently?

Yes, there is an option to join the Academy program independently. Each year of the academy has specific requirements and is tailored to different levels of experience: Academy Year 1: Ideal for individuals with no prior experience or 1-2 years of experience in the industry. This year serves as a strong foundation for building essential skills. Academy Year 2: Open to students who have successfully completed Academy Year 1, regardless of their prior experience in the creative industry. This year focuses on honing industry-standard skills, ensuring students develop a world-class portfolio. Academy Year 3: Designed for students who have graduated from Academy Year 2 or have a minimum of 2 years of industry experience. Year 3 is centered around creating short 3D animation films (cinematics), and an interview with the M3DS Academy team is required for admission. Academy Year 4: Available for graduates of Academy Year 3 or individuals with advanced knowledge in Unreal Engine. Year 4 delves into advanced game development using Unreal Engine. These options allow individuals to tailor their education to their specific needs and experience levels within the creative industry.
Will I receive a certificate or diploma after completing the academy?

Upon successfully completing our academic programs, you will be awarded: Three internationally recognized certificates from Autodesk USA. Four diplomas from M3DS Academy, signifying your industry-standard knowledge and eligibility to work in the field. Epic Games credentials for Unreal Engine proficiency. Eligibility to apply for becoming an Authorized Training Instructor for Epic Games. These credentials and certifications not only acknowledge your expertise but also open up exciting opportunities in the creative industry.
How much one-on-one mentorship time will I receive?

You will receive one-on-one mentorship throughout the entire working week, from Monday to Friday, utilizing both screen sharing and text formats. Additionally, every step of your tasks and portfolio will be reviewed by our instructors on a regular basis to provide you with timely feedback and guidance, ensuring your continuous growth and progress.
What are the qualification requirements?

To be eligible for our program, you will need a PC or MAC with at least an i5 processor, 8 to 16 GB RAM, and 4GB VRAM on your graphics card. Additionally, a graphics tablet is required to achieve the artistic value of professional lines and textures on your portfolio. It is important to note that all classes are conducted in English. Basic computer skills are required, as well as a passion and motivation to learn. We will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the program.
What are the payment options?

At M3DS Academy, we prioritize flexibility and affordability for our students. You have the following payment options: Monthly Installments: You can choose to pay for our academic programs in convenient monthly installments, spread over up to 48 months. This option makes it easier for you to manage your finances while investing in your education. One-time Payment Discount: Alternatively, if you prefer to pay for the academic programs in a single payment, we offer a 10% discount. This discount rewards your commitment and simplifies your payment process. Rest assured, we do not charge any interest or hide any additional costs. Our aim is to provide transparent and accessible education options.
Will I really get a job offer after finishing the 4 year Academic program?

Yes, at M3DS Academy, we are committed to your success. Upon completion of the 4-year Academic program, you'll have the opportunity to embark on a part-time job related to your specialized area of expertise, allowing you to work on projects you're passionate about. If you demonstrate exceptional dedication and effort, there's even the possibility of transitioning to a full-time position within our team. The work you create during your academic journey will serve as a valuable addition to your portfolio, further enhancing your career prospects in the industry. We're here to support your journey to becoming a successful 3D artist or game developer.
What are the next steps when I sign up?

Once you've successfully enrolled in Academic Programs, our streamlined process ensures you're well-prepared for your educational journey: Confirmation Email: Shortly after enrollment, you'll receive a confirmation email from M3DS Academy. Information Gathering: Our dedicated team will then reach out to you to collect essential details, including your Discord ID and email address. Private Discord Channel: A personalized private Discord channel will be established exclusively for you. This channel serves as a direct line of communication with our team and instructors. Assigned Instructors: You'll be assigned a team of seven skilled instructors who will be readily available to support and guide you throughout your learning experience. Interview with CEO: As part of our commitment to your success, you'll have the opportunity to engage in an interview with the CEO of M3DS Academy. During this discussion, you can share your aspirations and goals, and together, we'll craft a tailored strategy to help you achieve your dreams. We ensure that your onboarding experience is smooth and personalized to set you on the path to becoming a successful 3D artist or game developer. Schedule a call