Top 11 Animator Certifications

Certifications can be important for animators when looking for a job in the industry. A certification demonstrates that you have a certain level of knowledge and experience in the field, and it can help employers decide whether or not you are qualified for the position. Certifications also provide evidence that you are up-to-date on the latest software and techniques used in animation, which is important for any potential employer. Lastly, certifications allow animators to stand out from other applicants who may not have taken the time to acquire them.

This article reviews and explains the benefits of popular certifications for Animators, which can help to advance their professional careers.

What are Animator Certifications?

Animator certification is a form of professional development and recognition for those who specialize in animation. It is awarded by a number of organizations and universities, and can provide an individual with increased job opportunities and a higher salary.

In order to receive animator certification, one must pass a series of tests that prove they are knowledgeable in the field of animation. They must demonstrate their understanding of different types of animation software, techniques, processes, and industry standards. Additionally, they must show that they are able to use the software efficiently and creatively in order to create high-quality animations.

The benefits of animator certification include increased job opportunities, higher salaries, enhanced credibility within the field, recognition from employers and peers alike, access to professional networks for collaborations or advice on projects, and more. This certification can also help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Furthermore, it may open doors to new markets or career paths that would have otherwise been closed off without certification.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a certified animator, make sure to research the different certifications available and decide which one best fits your needs. Additionally, consider taking an online course or attending an in-person workshop to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the certification exam.

Related: What does an Animator do?

Top 11 Animator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Animators today.

1. Certified Animation Professional (CAP)

Certified Animation Professional (CAP) is a certification program offered by the International Animated Film Association (IAFA). It is designed to recognize professionals in the animation industry who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skills and experience. The CAP certification is intended to provide employers with an assurance that applicants possess the necessary qualifications for employment in the animation field.

The CAP program consists of three levels: Associate, Professional and Master. Each level requires passing a written exam and completing a portfolio review. To become certified at any of these levels, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in animation or related fields.

The exams for each level are administered online through IAFA's website. The cost for each exam is $250 USD, which includes the cost of the portfolio review as well. Applicants must also pay an additional fee for their application to be processed and reviewed by IAFA's Certification Board.

The amount of time it takes to get certified varies depending on how quickly you can prepare for and pass the exams and submit your portfolio review. Generally speaking, it may take anywhere from 3-6 months to complete all requirements for certification.

2. Certified Digital Animator (CDA)

Certified Digital Animator (CDA) is a professional certification program offered by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). It is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of animators in digital animation, including 3D computer graphics, motion capture, and other related technologies. The CDA certification requires a minimum of two years of full-time experience in digital animation or equivalent part-time experience.

In order to get Certified Digital Animator (CDA) certification, applicants must complete an online application form and submit a portfolio of their work. Applicants must also pass an oral examination administered by AMPAS. The exam consists of questions about digital animation techniques and technologies as well as questions about the applicant’s experience in the field.

The cost for the Certified Digital Animator (CDA) certification program is $500 USD. This fee covers the cost of the online application form, portfolio submission, and oral examination.

3. Autodesk Certified User in Maya

Autodesk Certified User in Maya is an industry-recognized certification that validates a user’s proficiency with the Autodesk Maya software. It is designed to demonstrate a user’s ability to use the features and functions of Maya for 3D modeling, animation, and rendering. The certification is available to individuals who have completed the Autodesk Certified User in Maya exam.

The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 15 questions. To prepare for the exam, users should review the official Autodesk Learning Path for Maya, which covers topics such as navigation, modeling, animation, lighting, and rendering.

To get certified as an Autodesk Certified User in Maya, users must first purchase a voucher from Autodesk or one of its authorized resellers. The cost of the voucher varies depending on where it is purchased but typically ranges from $100 - $150 USD. After purchasing a voucher, users can then register for and take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide.

Once passed, users will receive their official Autodesk Certified User in Maya certificate via email within two weeks. This certificate will include their name and unique certification number which can be used to verify their status as an Autodesk Certified User in Maya with potential employers or clients.

4. Adobe Certified Associate in Animate CC

Adobe Certified Associate in Animate CC is a certification program that allows individuals to demonstrate their skills and knowledge of the Adobe Animate CC software. It is designed for those who work with animation, motion graphics, interactive design, and other digital media.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and a practical exam. The online assessment tests your understanding of the fundamentals of Animate CC, such as its interface, tools, and features. The practical exam requires you to complete a series of tasks using the software.

It usually takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete the online assessment and up to 3 hours to complete the practical exam. You must pass both parts in order to become certified.

You can get certified by taking an official Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) exam at any authorized testing center or through Pearson VUE. You can find more information about the ACA program on Adobe's website or contact your local testing center for more details.

The cost of becoming an Adobe Certified Associate in Animate CC varies depending on where you take the exam and which version of Animate CC you are being tested on. Generally speaking, it costs around $180 USD for the online assessment plus an additional fee for the practical exam.

5. Certified Unity Developer (CUD)

Certified Unity Developer (CUD) is a certification offered by Unity Technologies, the company behind the popular game engine. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's proficiency in developing games and interactive experiences with Unity. It is a globally recognized credential that shows employers and peers that you have the skills to create high-quality projects with Unity.

To become a Certified Unity Developer, you must complete the CUD program which consists of two parts: an online self-study program and a hands-on assessment. In the self-study program, you will learn about the fundamentals of game development with Unity, such as its interface, scripting language, asset pipeline, and more. The assessment requires you to create a small project using Unity’s tools and features.

The CUD program takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete depending on your prior experience with game development or coding in general. Once you have completed both parts of the program successfully, you will be awarded the Certified Unity Developer credential.

The cost for the CUD program varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

6. Toon Boom Certified Professional (TBCP)

Toon Boom Certified Professional (TBCP) is a certification program designed for professionals who use Toon Boom software. It is an industry-recognized certification that verifies the expertise of animators, storyboard artists, and other professionals in using Toon Boom software.

The certification process takes about eight hours to complete and consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as animation principles, storyboarding, production pipeline, and Toon Boom tools. The practical exam requires the candidate to complete an animation project using the Toon Boom software.

To get certified, candidates must first register with Toon Boom Certification Program and provide proof of their professional experience in animation or storyboarding. Once accepted into the program, they can then purchase the TBCP package which includes access to online training materials and practice exams as well as a voucher code that can be used to take the actual certification exams.

The cost of the TBCP package varies depending on which version of Toon Boom software you are using but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

7. Maxon Cinema 4D Certified Professional (MC4DCP)

Maxon Cinema 4D Certified Professional (MC4DCP) is a certification program that allows professionals to demonstrate their proficiency in using Maxon’s 3D animation software, Cinema 4D. The certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of the software and its features.

The exam covers topics such as modeling, texturing, lighting, rendering, and animation. It also includes questions on workflow optimization and best practices. To get certified, applicants must score at least 75% on the exam.

The MC4DCP certification process takes approximately one hour to complete. Applicants must register for the exam online and pay a fee of $99 USD before taking it. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate via email within 48 hours.

The MC4DCP certification is valid for two years from the date of passing the exam. After two years, applicants must renew their certification by taking the exam again or completing additional training courses related to Cinema 4D.

8. Blender Foundation Certified Trainer (BFCT)

The Blender Foundation Certified Trainer (BFCT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in using the Blender 3D software. The program is open to anyone who has completed an online course, or has attended one of the official Blender workshops offered by the Blender Institute.

It takes approximately two weeks to complete the certification process and become a BFCT. The first step is to register for the certification program on the official website. Once registered, you will be required to complete an online course and pass a final exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your certificate and be officially recognized as a BFCT.

The cost of becoming a BFCT depends on which type of course you take. Online courses typically cost between $200-400 USD, while attending an official workshop costs around $500 USD.

In addition to being able to use the title of “BFCT” after your name, certified trainers also receive access to exclusive resources such as tutorials and support from other certified trainers. They are also eligible for discounts on future Blender-related products and services.

9. Pixologic ZBrush Certification Program

Pixologic ZBrush Certification Program is a program designed to recognize and certify users of Pixologic's digital sculpting software, ZBrush. It is a way for users to demonstrate their proficiency in using the software and prove their capabilities as digital sculptors. The certification program consists of a series of tests that measure an individual’s knowledge and skill level in using ZBrush.

The certification process typically takes about 6-8 weeks to complete. To get certified, an individual must first register with Pixologic and then submit an application. Once accepted, they will be required to complete a series of online courses and exams covering topics such as 3D modeling, anatomy, texturing, rendering, and more. Upon completion of the coursework and exams, the individual will receive their official ZBrush Certification from Pixologic.

The cost of the Pixologic ZBrush Certification Program varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $50-$300 USD depending on your level of experience with the software and what type of certification you are looking for.

10. Houdini Core Certification Program

The Houdini Core Certification Program is a comprehensive certification program for individuals interested in learning the fundamentals of Houdini, SideFX's powerful 3D animation and visual effects software. The program consists of two levels of certification: Houdini Core Certified and Houdini Core Professional Certified.

Houdini Core Certified focuses on the basics of using Houdini to create stunning 3D visuals. It covers topics such as modeling, texturing, lighting, rendering, dynamics, and more. To become certified at this level, you must complete an online course that takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. Once you have completed the course and passed the final exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from SideFX.

Houdini Core Professional Certified is designed for those who want to take their knowledge of Houdini to the next level. This certification requires more advanced skills such as scripting, rigging, character animation, compositing, and more. To become certified at this level, you must complete an online course that takes approximately 20-25 hours to complete. Once you have completed the course and passed the final exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from SideFX.

The cost for both levels of certification is $150 USD each.

11. Foundry Nuke Certification Program

The Foundry Nuke Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in using The Foundry’s Nuke compositing software. To become certified, you must pass an online assessment and complete a practical project.

The assessment consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that cover the fundamentals of using Nuke, including topics such as node-based compositing, color management, and scripting. The assessment takes approximately two hours to complete and can be taken at any time from anywhere with an internet connection.

Once the assessment has been completed successfully, applicants will then need to submit a practical project based on their own work or material provided by The Foundry. This project should demonstrate their understanding of the concepts covered in the assessment and their ability to use Nuke effectively. Projects are reviewed by experienced professionals and those that meet the criteria for certification will receive their certificate within four weeks.

The cost of the Foundry Nuke Certification Program varies depending on your location, but typically ranges from $200 - $400 USD.

Do You Really Need a Animator Certificate?

Animator certificates can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field, but they are not necessary for success in the animation industry. In fact, many of the most successful animators have never taken any formal classes or earned a certificate.

The key to becoming a successful animator is having an understanding of both the art and technology involved in creating animations. This can be achieved through self-study, experimentation, and practice with software such as Adobe After Effects or Autodesk Maya. Such methods will give you the skills you need to create compelling animations that stand out from the crowd.

At the same time, taking formal classes or earning an animator certificate can be beneficial if you want to make sure you have a thorough understanding of all aspects of animation. Formal courses may cover topics such as character design, storyboarding, 3D modeling, rigging and animation principles. Taking these classes could also give you access to experienced professionals who can help guide your career path and provide valuable feedback on your work.

In short, while an animator certificate may not be necessary for success in the field of animation, it could still prove useful if you want to gain a deeper understanding of the craft and learn from experienced professionals. Ultimately though, it’s up to each individual animator to decide how best to develop their skillset and pursue their career goals.

Related: Animator Resume Examples

FAQs About Animator Certifications

1. What are the benefits of getting an Animator Certification?

Answer: An animator certification can help you stand out from other job applicants and demonstrate your proficiency in animation software. It can also help you network with other professionals in the field and gain access to new job opportunities.

2. How do I get an Animator Certification?

Answer: You can get an animator certification by enrolling in a college or university program, taking online classes, or attending specialized workshops. Each program and workshop will have its own requirements and costs associated with it.

3. What type of jobs can I get with an Animator Certification?

Answer: With an animator certification, you can pursue a variety of job roles such as 3D modeler, motion graphic artist, visual effects artist, character designer, or storyboard artist.

4. What types of software do I need to know for an Animator Certification?

Answer: The exact software requirements vary depending on the program or workshop you choose, but commonly used tools include Autodesk Maya, Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D, Blender 3D, and Unity 3D.

5. How long does it take to complete an Animator Certification?

Answer: The duration of each program or workshop varies depending on the level of complexity and depth covered in the course material. Generally speaking, most programs last between one to two years depending on whether you are enrolled full-time or part-time.