CADA | Games, Animation & VFX Education

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START DATE

10. August 2026

DURATION

1.5 Years

FORMAT

Online / Hybrid / Onsite

From zero experience
to a focused 3D portfolio
in 1.5 years

You start as a beginner and end with work that looks like it belongs in the industry. This Certificate Program is built exactly for that shift. Over 1.5 years you move from learning the basics of 3D to producing work that can be used to apply for junior roles, internships or longer educations in Games, Animation and VFX. You do not need previous experience. You do need the willingness to do the work.

Early Bird Offer

Apply by 22 December 2025 to save DKK 5,000 on tuition fee and get the DKK 2,500 registration fee refunded.

Who this program is for

This program is a good fit if you recognise yourself in one or more of these situations:

You are starting from zero and want a serious, structured way into 3D.
You already know a bit of 3D tools, but you feel stuck and do not know how to turn that into a real path.
You want to specialise in Game Art, 3D Animation, Tech Art or Procedural and VFX and you know you will need a portfolio that actually shows that.
You are changing direction from another field and want something concrete that leads somewhere.

If you want to move from “I am interested in 3D” to “I have a clear specialisation and a portfolio that shows it”, this program is built for you.

What will be different after 1.5 years

By the end of the Certificate Program you will be able to:

Understand and work through the full basic 3D pipeline from blockout to final render.
Produce work that clearly belongs to one of four paths: Game Art, Animation, Tech Art or Procedural/VFX.
Communicate your creative choices confidently, discuss your process, and accept feedback as an opportunity to grow.
Build and present pieces that are strong enough to use in applications for junior roles, internships or longer educations.
Plan your next step with clarity, whether that is continuing your studies, aiming for a junior position or combining 3D with another field.

The goal is not just that you “know more about 3D”. The goal is that you have visible, concrete output and a direction.

Program Overview

Click on each semester to read more

Semester 1
In the first semester you are introduced the fundamental skills in 3D production as well as an understanding of the different roles in a traditional workflow.

Subjects will include:
Essential design principles, Essential 3D Tools & Techniques (Modelling, shading, lighting, rendering) fundamental animation and rigging and introduction to Real-Time engines.

In the end of the semester you will be applying your skills in a group environment art project.

COURSES:
- 3D TOOLS & TECHNIQUES 101: Introduction to 3D modelling
- 3D TOOLS & TECHNIQUES 102: Introduction to shading, lighting & rendering
- 3D TOOLS & TECHNIQUES 103: Introduction to RealTime engines.
- VISUAL LITERACY 101: Design principles
- SPECIALISATION 101: Introduction to specializations
- PIPELINE & WORKFLOW FOR 3D PRODUCTION
- PRODUCTION: 3D Environment
Semester 2
Building on top of your fundamentals you will start approaching more advanced techniques and tools, also focusing on your specific role choice.

Specialisations available*: 3D Artist/Game Artist, Animation, Procedural, Technical Art.

Subjects will include:
Advanced modelling, look development, compositing, cinematic storytelling, introduction to specialisation subject.

The semester will conclude with a group project focusing on creating a game cinematic.

*) Subject to change.

COURSES:
- VISUAL LITERACY 201: Color styling
- VISUAL LITERACY 202: Cinematic storytelling
- 3D TOOLS & TECHNIQUES 201: Advanced 3D tools and techniques
- 3D TOOLS & TECHNIQUES 202: Look Development
- SPECIALISATION 201: Core skills & techniques
- PIPELINE & WORKFLOW FOR CINEMATIC PRODUCTION
- PRODUCTION: Cinematic project
Specialisation paths:

Game Art

Create characters, props, assets and environments for real time engines. Learn game ready workflows, optimization and presentation.

3D Animation

Focus on movement, timing, performance and acting. Build animation cycles, short scenes and character driven work.

Tech Art

Combine art with technical skills. Learn rigging, tools, shaders and pipeline problem solving.

Procedural & VFX

Work with procedural systems, effects, simulation and creative problem solving using tools like Houdini and Unreal Engine.
Semester 3
This semester finalizes your 3D skills and takes a deep dive into your specialization, giving you the necessary tools and techniques to operate on a proficient level.

Subjects include: Specialization specific subjects, level design, Advanced real time tools and techniques.

The semester will conclude with a group project focusing on creating a game, as well as individually assembling your portfolio.

COURSES:
- VISUAL LITERACY 301: Level design
- VISUAL LITERACY 302: Presentation & Portfolio
- GAME PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES
- 3D TOOLS & TECHNIQUES 301: Advanced real-time tools
- SPECIALISATION 301: Proficiency and own project
- SPECIALISATION 301: Advanced workflows
- PRODUCTION: Game project

Study Format

You can join the program in three ways. The curriculum is aligned across formats. What changes is how you experience the day to day studies.

ONLINE

Learn from anywhere. Live sessions, feedback, community and mentor support delivered online.

HYBRID

Combine online learning with a final period onsite in Copenhagen, where you can focus on your project in a studio setting and get in-person feedback.

ONSITE

Study full time in Copenhagen, be in the same space as other students and mentors and treat your education like a studio job.

Meet our people

Hear from graduates, staff, and guest instructors through a variety of interview series that provide insight into CADA and the exciting journey towards a career as a Digital Artist.

Career Opportunities

3D skills are used across far more fields than most people realise. Games, animation and VFX are well established fields, and continue to grow, but so do industries such as virtual production, advertising, architectural visualisation, simulation, digital twins and interactive experiences. Companies across the globe are hiring artists who understand modern pipelines and can deliver work that fits into real production environments.

Most graduates from a 1.5 year program start by aiming for junior roles, internships or trainee positions. These exist in game studios, animation houses, VFX teams, production companies and fast growing sectors like tech art and real time 3D. The Certificate Program is designed to help you create the kind of focused portfolio that these roles require, and to give you a clear next step whether you plan to continue studying or start applying for entry-level opportunities.

My experience at CADA has been very fulfilling. I’ve met a lot of amazing people through the school and the projects we have done, which have opened gateways into the industry. But CADA has also helped me go from a basic skill set within 3D to a very advanced level. They helped me find my passion and supported me in pursuing it. For me, CADA is about the people you get to know, work with, and connect with.

Freya Tuwel Rasmussen

The amount of knowledge I have learned about the principles and work methods within the world of 3D here at Copenhagen Academy of Digital Arts is immeasurable.

Especially the teachers at the school who's previously worked in the industry has given me invaluable insight and know-how and what to expect when we enter the industry in the future."

Christian Just Skjøt

Attending CADA has been a transformative experience. I discovered that going to school doesn't have to be draining, it can be revitalizing and fun! Along the way, I made lifelong friends and valuable industry connections.

Marie Alsing

I went into CADA knowing I would NEVER want to become an animator. But then CADA taught me the beauty of it, and now I'm a full time animator and I don't regret it one bit. It's actually pretty fun.

Mathias Gregersen

I am very happy to have chosen CADA, where I discovered my passion for 3D. I have connected with and gotten to know fascinating students, teachers, and industry professionals. The projects have taught me invaluable skills such as collaboration, receiving feedback, and more. While you could choose to learn on your own through websites and videos, the true value of the education lies in the collaborative experience, industry networking, and pipeline insight it offers.

Signe Harremoës Feldstein

Studying at CADA has allowed me to explore a side of myself I’ve always wanted to know. Learning the many kinds of creativity that 3D has to offer, alongside like-minded people has been exactly what I needed to find my passion. Everything from the competitions to the collaborations has made me a better artist and team player.

Simon Kaarfast

At CADA, I was provided with a class full of like-minded people that I could learn and grow with. Being part of a community is very helpful when you're first starting out, as it also facilitates a lot of feedback.

Gregers Berth

When I started out at CADA I knew nothing about 3D or animation. They taught me everything I know within the field. Today I am an educated 3D Digital Artist, working in the games industry. At CADA I was part of various film and game productions, and I was taught by leading professionals from around the world. I worked with like-minded, passionate, and creative students and teachers, and some have become lifelong friends of mine. Attending CADA was a dream come true. I found an unending passion and newfound creativity within 3D arts.

Oliver Lundt

Signe Harremoës Feldstein

Tuition Fee

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Application Process

STEP 1: SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Fill out the application form and include a short motivational letter of up to one page. This helps us understand your background and goals.

STEP 2: BOOK YOUR ADMISSIONS MEETING

After your application submission, you will be redirected to schedule a meeting with our admissions team. This is an opportunity to ask questions and confirm that the program is the right fit.

STEP 3: COMPLETE YOUR ENROLLMENT

Complete enrollment, pay registration fee, and secure your spot in the next cohort.

Apply Now

You'll be redirected to book an admissions meeting after submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the program conducted in English?

Yes, the program is conducted in English, so it is a requirement that you have an acceptable level of fluency in the language.

Does this program require an admissions portfolio?

No. You don’t need to submit a portfolio when you apply for this program.

Are there any financial aid options available?

There are no financial aid options available for this program.

How do I reserve my spot in the education?

Upon successful submission of your application and acceptance into the education programme, a non-refundable registration fee of 2,500 DKK is required to secure your place. This fee will guarantee your spot and ensure your enrolment.

Can I apply if I'm an international student?

Yes, international students are warmly welcomed at our institution.

Please note, international students seeking to study onsite must secure permanent residency in Denmark on their own, as our status as a private institution limits our capacity to assist in this process. This requirement is particularly relevant for non-EU residents.

Is there an application deadline for the education?

We have a rolling admissions policy for our programme, without a fixed application deadline. We advise submitting your application promptly once you decide to join, as enrolment is on a first-come, first-served basis among qualified candidates.

Are there any age limits for students wishing to enrol in CADA's programmes?

Our programmes have no age restrictions. Whether you're just starting your artistic journey or looking to enhance your skills later in life, we welcome students of all ages who are passionate about CGI, Digital Arts, and 3D.

Contact our Admissions Counsellor

Contact us with your questions or book a meeting with our admissions counsellor.

Phone: +45 70 27 77 87
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 15:00 CET

Contact Us