3D Modeling Certificate

Tell a story with depth

Create and process three-dimensional digital art

Tell memorable three-dimensional stories. With a 3D Modeling and Animation Certificate, you gain an edge over others seeking careers in this creative, highly competitive field. Build on your existing talent and gain marketable, in-demand skills. Work alongside experienced instructors to develop your technical expertise and tell digital stories that inspire.

Use the conceptual, critical and creative knowledge you develop to draw the attention of:

ad agencies
motion graphic studios
animation studios
gaming studios

Disney Studios, Nickelodeon and Bento Box Entertainment may come looking for you!

We provide you with access to Mac and PC computer labs, so you can become familiar with both platforms. You build work-ready industry skills as you learn the ins and outs of digital marketing and design tools:
- Adobe® Acrobat, After Effects, Animate, Audition, Dreamweaver, InDesign, Illustrator, Media Encoder, Photoshop and Premiere
- Apple® Logic Pro X and Final Cut Pro
- 3D Software: Maxon® Cinema 4D
- WordPress with Apache server
- Figma for UI/UX design
- Waves Mercury hardware and plugins, Steinberg Cubase, Celemony Melodyne 4 Studio Software and Avid Pro Tools
- digital video cameras, recording equipment and audio mixers
- green screen, broadcast monitors, condenser microphones, analog and digital video capture stations

What can you do with a Certificate in 3D Modeling and Animation?

This certificate prepares you to start work or continue your education in animation, design or related fields.

Highlights

Stackable Credentials

Earn college credits and learn as you go with stackable credentials.
Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).
Career Certificate

Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning a certificate in less than 1 year.
Program Length: 1 Year

Finish in 1 year as a full-time student.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Prepare detailed drawings of architectural and structural features of buildings or drawings and topographical relief maps used in civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, and public works. Use knowledge of building materials, engineering practices, and mathematics to complete drawings.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $41,982
  
  Median
  
  $55,787
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $86,126
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $20.18
  
  Median
  
  $26.81
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $41.40
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  0.41%
  
  Certificate
  
  0.91%
  
  Some college
  
  0.41%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  17.85%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  54.59%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  25.84%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Design and develop manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and children's toys. Combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials to create the most functional and appealing product design.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $39,424
  
  Median
  
  $59,386
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $127,472
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $18.95
  
  Median
  
  $28.54
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $61.28
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  4.3%
  
  Certificate
  
  0.29%
  
  Some college
  
  15.23%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  12.26%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  67.92%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $52,818
  
  Median
  
  $69,117
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $94,517
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $25.39
  
  Median
  
  $33.23
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $45.43
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  32.77%
  
  Certificate
  
  31.39%
  
  Some college
  
  19.68%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  14.3%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  1.86%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $45,345
  
  Median
  
  $63,794
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $103,282
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.80
  
  Median
  
  $30.66
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $49.65
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  6.1%
  
  Certificate
  
  21.07%
  
  Some college
  
  6.74%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  23.56%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  40.08%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  2.46%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $50,332
  
  Median
  
  $77,337
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $121,357
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $24.19
  
  Median
  
  $37.17
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $58.34
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Certificate
  
  7.98%
  
  Some college
  
  7.45%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  61.28%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  20.25%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  2.93%
  
  Doctorate
  
  0.13%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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enroll in first-semester classes
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Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, see the CLC college catalog.

View program in catalog

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Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
DMD 157	DMD 157 Introduction to Animation Class Description This course will introduce students to 2D animation using state-of-the-art industry relevant software and hardware. Students will explore various animation concepts and techniques including history, drawing, rotoscoping, basic movement, timing, soundtrack/dialogue synchronization, and editing. Through lectures, discussions, demonstrations and screenings students will view and discuss animation that is currently used in television, film, interactive media and the Internet.	3	Online/Virtual options available
DMD 173	DMD 173 Introduction to Digital Sound Class Description This course introduces students to the exploration of digital sound for multimedia. Students will learn how to manipulate wave files, understand various sound file formats, compressions, history of digital sound, and the difference between analog and digital sound editing. Students will write and develop sound scripts and sound projects for multimedia. Students will explore the different job functions of audio production and learn to work together in a team environment. The course will also introduce students to the basics of producing audio for the Web and interactive applications.	3
DMD 251	DMD 251 Advanced 3D Modeling Class Description This course is designed as an advanced modeling course for students who are experienced with basic 3D modeling concepts and technical practice. The course introduces more sophisticated concepts and techniques such as polygon modeling, texture mapping, lighting and rendering. Through hands-on practice students will focus on modeling concepts and development relating to character, environmental, materials and lighting design.	3	Online/Virtual options available
ART 124	ART 124 Drawing I Class Description This course provides students with an introduction to drawing concepts and processes through freehand application. Throughout the course, in-class and out-of-class assignments will stress linear and tonal approaches to describe objects drawn from direct observation. The outline of class work is progressive and includes contour line drawing assignments, visual measuring and sighting, shape quality, composition, linear perspective, value drawing, master studies, and self-portraiture. Mediums employed will be graphite pencil, charcoal, and conte crayon. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.	3	Credit for prior learning available
ART 264	ART 264 3D Computer Animation Class Description This is a hands-on intermediate level course in the creation and development of 3D animations. Through various assigned projects the student will be exposed to the history of animation, theory, image manipulation, lighting, wire frames, vector points, drawing, video, audio and other various animation techniques. This course will provide the student with the knowledge of computer animation on a simple and complex level. The course will explore the incorporation of different mediums within computer animation, and the student will gain an understanding of professional technical skills from their lessons and independent projects.Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.	3	Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	DMD 157
Course Title	DMD 157 Introduction to Animation Class Description This course will introduce students to 2D animation using state-of-the-art industry relevant software and hardware. Students will explore various animation concepts and techniques including history, drawing, rotoscoping, basic movement, timing, soundtrack/dialogue synchronization, and editing. Through lectures, discussions, demonstrations and screenings students will view and discuss animation that is currently used in television, film, interactive media and the Internet.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	DMD 173
Course Title	DMD 173 Introduction to Digital Sound Class Description This course introduces students to the exploration of digital sound for multimedia. Students will learn how to manipulate wave files, understand various sound file formats, compressions, history of digital sound, and the difference between analog and digital sound editing. Students will write and develop sound scripts and sound projects for multimedia. Students will explore the different job functions of audio production and learn to work together in a team environment. The course will also introduce students to the basics of producing audio for the Web and interactive applications.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	DMD 251
Course Title	DMD 251 Advanced 3D Modeling Class Description This course is designed as an advanced modeling course for students who are experienced with basic 3D modeling concepts and technical practice. The course introduces more sophisticated concepts and techniques such as polygon modeling, texture mapping, lighting and rendering. Through hands-on practice students will focus on modeling concepts and development relating to character, environmental, materials and lighting design.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ART 124
Course Title	ART 124 Drawing I Class Description This course provides students with an introduction to drawing concepts and processes through freehand application. Throughout the course, in-class and out-of-class assignments will stress linear and tonal approaches to describe objects drawn from direct observation. The outline of class work is progressive and includes contour line drawing assignments, visual measuring and sighting, shape quality, composition, linear perspective, value drawing, master studies, and self-portraiture. Mediums employed will be graphite pencil, charcoal, and conte crayon. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ART 264
Course Title	ART 264 3D Computer Animation Class Description This is a hands-on intermediate level course in the creation and development of 3D animations. Through various assigned projects the student will be exposed to the history of animation, theory, image manipulation, lighting, wire frames, vector points, drawing, video, audio and other various animation techniques. This course will provide the student with the knowledge of computer animation on a simple and complex level. The course will explore the incorporation of different mediums within computer animation, and the student will gain an understanding of professional technical skills from their lessons and independent projects.Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
DMD 121	DMD 121 Introduction to Graphic Design Class Description This is a foundation course that develops a student’s ability to understand graphic design with a focus on print media but applies to interactive media as well. The student is introduced to basic design terminology, principles, theory, tools, and techniques used in today’s digitally produced communications. An emphasis throughout is a solid foundation in organizational skills and research associated with design. This course lays the foundation for more advanced digital design courses. Note: Student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and sub folders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening websites; and using search engines	3	Online/Virtual options available
DMD 233	DMD 233 Digital Video Editing Class Description This course introduces students to the basics of postproduction non-linear digital video editing for multimedia, video and web capabilities. Students will produce, edit, and optimize video using industry relevant editing software. Upon completion of the course students will be able to create and produce digital videos and incorporated compressed and rendered projects into CD ROMs, DVD and Web technologies. In addition to learning the technical capabilities of the software, students will discuss digital video theory, concepts of video art and design, and the role digital video plays in the world of film, animation, animation and Web interactivity.	3	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
DMD 253	DMD 253 Advanced 3D Animation Class Description This course is designed as an advanced animation course for students who are experienced with basic 3D animation concepts and technical practice. The course introduces more sophisticated concepts and techniques with an emphasis on animation development through hands-on practice. The course will focus on animation concepts and creative animation design expanding students' knowledge of topics, tools and techniques.	3
DMD 259	DMD 259 3D Special Effects Class Description This course is designed as an advanced level computer course using state-of-the-art industry-relevant special effects 3D software. In conjunction with 3D modeling and animation, students will learn to create and produce special effects including: atmospheric effects, natural effects, smoke, explosions, motion blurs, and advanced texture and material generation. Concepts, theories and terms relating to special effects used in films, games, interactive media and the Internet will be discussed.	3
ART 225	ART 225 Figure Drawing Class Description Continuation of basic drawing with the application of drawing techniques and concepts as related to the figure. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	DMD 121
Course Title	DMD 121 Introduction to Graphic Design Class Description This is a foundation course that develops a student’s ability to understand graphic design with a focus on print media but applies to interactive media as well. The student is introduced to basic design terminology, principles, theory, tools, and techniques used in today’s digitally produced communications. An emphasis throughout is a solid foundation in organizational skills and research associated with design. This course lays the foundation for more advanced digital design courses. Note: Student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and sub folders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening websites; and using search engines
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	DMD 233
Course Title	DMD 233 Digital Video Editing Class Description This course introduces students to the basics of postproduction non-linear digital video editing for multimedia, video and web capabilities. Students will produce, edit, and optimize video using industry relevant editing software. Upon completion of the course students will be able to create and produce digital videos and incorporated compressed and rendered projects into CD ROMs, DVD and Web technologies. In addition to learning the technical capabilities of the software, students will discuss digital video theory, concepts of video art and design, and the role digital video plays in the world of film, animation, animation and Web interactivity.
Credits	3
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	DMD 253
Course Title	DMD 253 Advanced 3D Animation Class Description This course is designed as an advanced animation course for students who are experienced with basic 3D animation concepts and technical practice. The course introduces more sophisticated concepts and techniques with an emphasis on animation development through hands-on practice. The course will focus on animation concepts and creative animation design expanding students' knowledge of topics, tools and techniques.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	DMD 259
Course Title	DMD 259 3D Special Effects Class Description This course is designed as an advanced level computer course using state-of-the-art industry-relevant special effects 3D software. In conjunction with 3D modeling and animation, students will learn to create and produce special effects including: atmospheric effects, natural effects, smoke, explosions, motion blurs, and advanced texture and material generation. Concepts, theories and terms relating to special effects used in films, games, interactive media and the Internet will be discussed.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	ART 225
Course Title	ART 225 Figure Drawing Class Description Continuation of basic drawing with the application of drawing techniques and concepts as related to the figure. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
Credits	3

Total Credit Hours

32

Digital Media and Design at CLC

Get the bigger picture

This certificate is just one possible way to study Digital Media and Design. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Digital Media and Design Program Overview

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Complete the application form to begin your program.

Then a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions and get you onboarded. Explore steps to apply at CLC.

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Frequently asked questions

Animation studios, architectural firms and gaming companies are searching for animators, product designers and 3D modelers. Demonstrate your expertise and get further in your career with this certificate. Get training to create:
- character drawings
- 3D models
- 3D animations
- motion graphics
- game animations
The 3D Modeling and Animation Certificate is 30-32 credit hours and takes an average of one year to complete. Get hands-on with the software, hardware and animation techniques to create and process digital art.
You will learn Adobe Photoshop and Cinema 4D software to produce images and polygon models worthy of a second look. Practice in classroom labs on the provided Apple iMac computers or your personal computer. Complete digital drawings, animation assignments and projects with Wacom drawing tablets.
Your classes include:
- 3D Computer Animation
- Introduction to Digital Sound
- Video Editing
The estimated cost of this program appears at the top of this web page, under the program title.

The cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours. It includes in-district tuition and fees, such as for books and materials. It does not factor in financial aid (grants, loans, scholarships) that you may receive.

View current tuition and fees

Some courses in this program are subject to variable tuition and course fees because they provide specialized experiences, instruction or technology/equipment.

View courses with variable tuition and fees

Many opportunities exist at CLC to get financial aid. Learn more about Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

Luzbeth Perez
Graduate
“I accomplished goals I never thought I could in my time at CLC. I earned straight As and became part of the honor society. I started drawing art! CLC is a place where you can succeed in your education.”
Luzbeth studied Digital Media and Design at CLC. At first she struggled in class but with support from CLC faculty, she graduated magna cum laude.
Read Luzbeth's story

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Tell a story with depth

Create and process three-dimensional digital art

Access to must-have digital tools

What can you do with a Certificate in 3D Modeling and Animation?

Highlights

Stackable Credentials

Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Career Certificate

Program Length: 1 Year

Career Outlook

Architectural and Civil Drafters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Commercial and Industrial Designers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Electrical and Electronics Drafters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Mechanical Drafters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Need help getting started?

Recommended Pathway

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Semester 1 17 Credits

Semester 2 15 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Digital Media and Design at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Apply now: It's easy and free

Frequently asked questions

Why should I get a Certificate in 3D Modeling and Animation at CLC?

How long is the program?

What skills will I learn?

How much does this program cost?

Luzbeth Perez

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