Apply for the Game Art program by January 31

Apply for the Game Art program by January 31

Foundations in 2D Animation

Preliminary Program

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  • Duration February – June 2026
  • Level Beginner
  • Language English
  • Format Online
  • Tuition fee € 1 500 (or in installments)
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The Program

From classic animated films to contemporary series and games – animation has been part of our entertainment for years.

“Foundations of 2D Animation” is a 5-month preliminary program for everyone who wants to enter the world of animation. Whether you are driven by curiosity or planning to continue your education in an art specialty, the program gives you a solid foundation, practical experience and portfolio.

Within 90 hours, you will learn the principles of animation, master the basics of animation software, create characters and worlds and build your own project.

For Whom

We believe that anyone with curiosity and a desire to experiment can discover the magic of animation. You don’t need to know how to draw to start the program.

It’s for you if you:

  • have an interest in drawing, illustration, and visual storytelling;
  • love comics, animated films and graphic novels;
  • plan to continue your education in an art specialty (at ARC Academy or in university);
  • want to develop your creative possibilities in animation.

Skills

  • Creative Skills

    Storytelling through storyboard and animation.

  • Technical Skills

    Working with animation software.

  • Character Design

    Creating characters and animating their movements and emotions.

  • Project-Based Work

    Gain experience by developing your first independent creative projects.

Education

The classes combine theoretical preparation with practical application through projects and assignments. Instructors provide guidance, recommendations, and personalized advice to help participants grow their skills. They support students in building a portfolio and becoming confident in working with software and producing authentic artwork.

Schedule: 90 hours in total, over 5 months, with sessions twice a week (once on a weekday and once during the weekend). Note: depending on the season or holidays, some weeks may include three sessions.

Format: A mix of live online lectures, hands-on assignments, personal feedback, and access to lesson recordings.

Support: Personalized feedback from mentors. Additionally, participants have access to a dedicated Discord group where they can ask questions, share progress, and discuss ideas with peers.

Self-study: 2–4 hours per week to ensure steady progress. The 2 hours represent the minimum recommended time; participants are encouraged to dedicate additional time as needed based on individual pace and project requirements.

Curriculum

In the program, you will take your first steps in creating moving images and understand how animated stories are born. Through practical projects and with the help of a mentor, you will develop knowledge, skills and practical experience.

Module 1: Introduction to Animation

Get acquainted with the history of animation, different styles and techniques, key roles in animation studios. You will learn to work with software and develop skills for creating characters and worlds.

  • Introduction to animation
  • Basic principles
  • Working with software
  • Character and world design

Module 2: Practical Skills and Project

Focuses on the process of creating animation projects. You will learn how to plan, create storyboards and realize your ideas, apply techniques for animating characters and their emotions and build your own animation project.

  • Pre-production
  • Character animation
  • Post-production (effects, editing)
  • Creating a personal project

Continue Your Education at ARC

In addition to preparing yourself and your personal portfolio, the "Foundations of 2D Animation" program will give you the opportunity to apply at ARC for the specialties Game Art (distance learning program), 3D Art and Visual Arts.

3D Art

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Visual Arts

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Upon completion of the Foundations in 2D Animation program, mentors share their overall impressions of participants’ progress and portfolio level. Based on this evaluation, graduates may receive a recommendation for direct access to ARC Academy’s specialized programs, without the need to complete an additional formal admission assignment.

Although the admission task is not mandatory for Preliminary graduates, it is offered as an optional exercise. Many students choose to complete it to practice their skills, assess their progress, and gain additional confidence before entering a specialized track.

Mentors

The program is led by professionals who enthusiastically share their knowledge and experience with you. The training is interactive and focused on practical work and mentors who monitor your development and provide personal feedback.

Expect us to announce them soon…

Student projects

Game Art online program

Got a question?

Book a free consultation

If you would like to find out more about preliminary, campus or distance learning programs, whether they are right for you and how they can help, contact us.

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