CG Spectrum Institute (CGSI) has launched three accredited creative courses for the film and games industry: Animation & VFX, Digital Art, and Game Development, which can be pursued as bachelor’s degrees or diplomas. Developed and taught by seasoned industry professionals and academics, these specialised courses are designed to bridge the gap between education and industry. Applications are now open for the first trimester, commencing on January 29, 2024.

“CGSI's courses have been built by a team that knows what to teach and how to teach it, combining practical industry methodologies with academic excellence and essential people skills to help students pave a steadfast pathway to a successful creative career,” says VFX industry veteran Magdalena Bisogni, who helped design the courses. “These specialised degrees train emerging artists for the ever-evolving film and game industry so they can adapt and thrive alongside it.”

With the advancement and democratisation of technology and the increasing demand for quality content, the industry is indeed thriving. The global entertainment and media value currently sits at over $2.32 trillion, with an almost 20% growth projected by 2027 (source: Statistica). This growth will unlock new opportunities for emerging digital artists with the right training and qualifications.

Registered with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and backed by major studios, CG Spectrum Institute graduates receive internationally recognised qualifications and gain a comprehensive education through the implementation of four unique learning streams:

• Creative Concepts and Principles, introducing students to the history of the industry and relevant theory;
• Industry Concepts, Processes and Capabilities, focusing on interpersonal skills and business acumen;
• Technical and Creative Processes and Practices, teaching students practical skills and techniques using industry tools;
• Capstone Trimester, where students spend time developing a high-quality professional portfolio along with essential job skills.   

Students choose their area of specialisation at the very beginning of their studies, allowing them to dive deep into their passion, with guidance from experienced artists, and emerge confident and prepared to enter the workforce within the dynamic creative industries.

“There has clearly been a lot of care and consideration put into CG Spectrum Institute's degrees,” states Luma’s Vice President, Jamy Zink. “Students choosing a specialisation at the very start of their studies is smart; it means they will be honing highly relevant creative and technical skills from day one.”

Five specialisations—flagged by studios to meet their hiring demands—are available across the three courses, with more in development (including 3D animation, game programming, virtual production, and compositing). At present, students can choose to build their industry skills in one of the following areas as their major:

• 3D Modelling
• FX
• Concept Art
• 2D Animation
• Game Design

These industry-focused creative courses join CGSI’s unique business diploma, which trains innovative individuals looking to move into leadership roles or start their own studio. 

Applications are now open, with financial aid options available through FEE-HELP for eligible students. The deadline for trimester one is January 24, 2024, at 11:59 PM (AEST). Eligibility and application details: https://cgspectrum.institute/cgsi-apply-now.