Top 10 Storyboard Artist Certifications

Certifications are important for storyboard artists in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency in the field. With a certification, potential employers can be confident that an artist has the necessary skills and knowledge to produce effective storyboards. Certification also shows that the artist is committed to their craft and is willing to invest time and effort into learning the latest techniques and tools. Additionally, certifications can open up new opportunities in the industry, as some employers may require them for certain positions or projects.

This article reviews top certifications for Storyboard Artists and explains how they can help advance a storyboard artist's career.

What are Storyboard Artist Certifications?

Storyboard artist certification is a professional certification program designed to help storyboard artists demonstrate their knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of storyboarding. The certification program provides a comprehensive review of the fundamentals of storyboarding, including drawing, anatomy, perspective and composition. It also covers advanced topics such as digital coloring and compositing, as well as how to create a pitch-perfect portfolio.

The certification helps storyboard artists prove their proficiency in the art form to potential employers and clients by providing them with a credential that verifies their level of expertise. Storyboard artist certification can also provide storyboard artists with an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs or pitching projects. This is because employers and clients know that certified professionals have been through rigorous training and are better equipped to work on important projects. Furthermore, having a certificate can give storyboard artists more credibility in the industry and may even lead to higher pay rates or better job opportunities.

Pro Tip: Research the requirements for storyboard artist certification in your area before signing up for a certification program. Many certifications are specific to certain regions, so make sure you understand what is expected of you before committing to a program. Also, look into any continuing education opportunities to keep your skillset current and competitive.

Related: What does a Storyboard Artist do?

Top 10 Storyboard Artist Certifications

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

1. Storyboard Artist Certification from the Academy of Art University

The Storyboard Artist Certification from the Academy of Art University is a professional certification program designed to help aspiring storyboard artists develop their skills and gain recognition in the industry. The program consists of three courses that cover the fundamentals of storyboarding, including composition, character design, layout, and storytelling. It also includes hands-on workshops and critiques with experienced professionals. The certification requires a total of 60 hours of instruction and can be completed in as little as six weeks.

To get the Storyboard Artist Certification, students must first complete an online application which includes a portfolio review. Once accepted into the program, students will need to complete all three courses within six weeks in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the Storyboard Artist Certification is $1,995 USD for all three courses. This fee does not include any additional materials or supplies needed for the classes.

2. Storyboard Artist Certification from Animation Mentor

Animation Mentor’s Storyboard Artist Certification is a rigorous online program designed to give aspiring storyboard artists the skills and knowledge they need to become successful in the industry. The course covers all aspects of storyboarding, from understanding the principles of visual storytelling and composition to creating dynamic shots and sequences. It also teaches students how to use industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop, Toon Boom Storyboard Pro, and Final Draft.

The Storyboard Artist Certification program takes approximately two months to complete, depending on how much time you are able to dedicate each week. It consists of eight modules that cover topics such as character design, scene layout, camera angles, and more. Each module includes video lessons, assignments, quizzes, and feedback from mentors.

To get certified as a Storyboard Artist by Animation Mentor, you must first apply for admission into the program. After being accepted into the program, you will be given access to all of the course materials and be able to begin your journey towards becoming a certified storyboard artist.

The cost of Animation Mentor’s Storyboard Artist Certification Program is $1,499 USD. This fee includes access to all of the course materials as well as mentorship from experienced professionals in the field who can provide guidance and feedback throughout your journey.

3. Storyboard Artist Certification from AnimationMentor.com

AnimationMentor.com offers a Storyboard Artist Certification to help aspiring storyboard artists gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful professionals in the animation industry. The certification is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of storyboarding, including visual storytelling, character design, layout, and more.

The Storyboard Artist Certification program consists of five online courses that can be completed at your own pace. Each course covers a different aspect of storyboarding, from basic principles to advanced techniques. The total time required for completion is approximately 40 hours.

In order to get certified as a Storyboard Artist, you must complete all five courses and pass an assessment exam with a score of 80% or higher. Upon successful completion, you will receive an official certificate from AnimationMentor.com that can be used to demonstrate your proficiency in storyboarding.

The cost for the Storyboard Artist Certification program is $499 USD. This includes access to all five courses and materials needed for completion as well as the assessment exam and certificate upon successful completion.

4. Storyboard Artist Certification from The Animation Workshop

The Animation Workshop Storyboard Artist Certification is a professional certification program designed to help storyboard artists develop their skills and gain recognition in the industry. The program focuses on the fundamentals of storyboarding, including the principles of visual storytelling, layout, composition, structure, and design. It also covers topics such as character development, scene planning and pacing.

The certification program consists of three levels: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. Each level requires completion of a series of courses that cover all aspects of storyboarding. The courses are taught online by experienced professionals from The Animation Workshop's faculty. Upon successful completion of each level, participants receive a certificate from The Animation Workshop.

The time it takes to complete the certification depends on which level you choose to pursue. A beginner-level certification can be completed in about 10 weeks; an intermediate-level certification can take up to 18 weeks; and an advanced-level certification may require up to 24 weeks or more.

To get certified as a storyboard artist through The Animation Workshop's program, applicants must first submit an application form along with their CV/resume and portfolio samples for evaluation by the school's faculty members. Once accepted into the program, students will be required to complete all coursework within the designated timeframe in order to receive their certificate.

The cost for the Storyboard Artist Certification program varies depending on which level you choose to pursue. For example, a beginner-level certification costs around $1,000 USD; an intermediate-level certification costs around $2,000 USD; and an advanced-level certification costs around $3,000 USD or more (depending on how many courses you take).

5. Storyboard Artist Certification from Vancouver Film School

The Storyboard Artist Certification from Vancouver Film School is a program designed to teach students the fundamentals of storyboarding. The program provides an in-depth look at the process of creating a storyboard, from concept to finished product. It covers topics such as character design, scene composition, and storytelling techniques.

The Storyboard Artist Certification takes approximately 12 weeks to complete. During this time, students will learn how to create storyboards for film and television projects. They will also gain hands-on experience by working with professional storyboard artists on real-world projects.

To get the Storyboard Artist Certification, students must first apply to the Vancouver Film School and be accepted into their program. Once accepted, they can enroll in the Storyboard Artist Certification course and begin their studies.

The cost of the Storyboard Artist Certification depends on the type of program chosen by the student. For example, if a student chooses an online course, it may cost less than if they choose an on-campus course. Additionally, some courses may require additional materials or fees that are not included in the tuition cost.

6. Storyboard Artist Certification from AnimSchool

AnimSchool's Storyboard Artist Certification is an online program designed to help aspiring storyboard artists develop the skills and knowledge they need to become successful in the industry. The certification program consists of a series of courses that cover topics such as composition, character design, layout, and storytelling. It also includes a final project in which students create their own storyboard from start to finish.

The certification takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on how quickly you work through the material. The program is self-paced so you can work at your own speed and take as much time as you need.

To get certified, you must complete all of the courses and pass the final project with a score of 80% or higher. You will also be required to submit your completed storyboard for review by AnimSchool's instructors. Once your storyboard has been approved, you will receive your certification.

The cost of AnimSchool's Storyboard Artist Certification varies depending on whether or not you are enrolled in any other programs with AnimSchool. For those who are not enrolled in any other programs, the cost is $299 USD.

7. Storyboard Artist Certification from Gnomon School of Visual Effects

Gnomon School of Visual Effects offers a Storyboard Artist Certification program to help aspiring storyboard artists learn the fundamentals of storyboarding for film, television, and video games. The program is designed to teach students the essential skills needed to create professional-level storyboards.

The Storyboard Artist Certification program consists of three courses: Introduction to Storyboarding, Advanced Storyboarding Techniques, and Professional Storyboarding. Each course is 10 weeks long and covers topics such as visual storytelling, composition, camera angles, character design, and more. Students will also learn how to use industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop and Toon Boom Harmony. Upon completion of all three courses, students will receive a certificate from Gnomon School of Visual Effects that verifies their knowledge in storyboarding.

To get the Storyboard Artist Certification from Gnomon School of Visual Effects, students must first complete the three required courses. The cost for each course is $1,495 USD ($4,485 total). Additionally, there are discounts available for those who purchase all three courses at once or enroll in multiple classes at once.

Overall, it takes approximately 30 weeks (10 weeks per course) to complete the Storyboard Artist Certification program from Gnomon School of Visual Effects. After completing all three courses and passing the final exam with a score of 70% or higher, students will receive their certification from Gnomon School of Visual Effects verifying their knowledge in storyboarding.

8. Storyboard Artist Certification from Animation Collaborative

Storyboard Artist Certification from Animation Collaborative is a certification program designed to teach and assess the skills necessary to become a professional storyboard artist. The program covers the fundamentals of storyboarding, including composition, timing, and storytelling. It also provides an in-depth look at how to create a professional portfolio, as well as how to market yourself and your work.

The Storyboard Artist Certification Program takes approximately six months to complete. It consists of 10 modules that cover topics such as composition, perspective, pacing, character design, and more. Each module includes lectures, assignments, critiques, and tests that must be completed by the student in order to receive their certification.

To get certified through Animation Collaborative's Storyboard Artist Certification Program you must first apply online and submit a portfolio of your work for review. Once accepted into the program you will be required to pay a fee of $1,500 USD. This fee covers all course materials and access to the online platform for six months.

Once you have completed all 10 modules and passed all tests with a score of 80% or higher you can submit your final project for review by an industry expert who will determine whether or not you are eligible for certification. If approved you will receive your certificate within two weeks via email or mail.

9. Storyboard Artist Certificate Program at California Institute of the Arts

The Storyboard Artist Certificate Program at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) is an intensive, six-month program designed to train and prepare aspiring storyboard artists for a career in animation. The program is offered through CalArts’ School of Film/Video and provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the principles of visual storytelling.

The program consists of two semesters, each lasting three months. During the first semester, students learn how to create storyboards from scratch, including composition, timing, character design, and panel layout. They also study basic animation principles and techniques such as character movement and lip sync. In the second semester, students focus on refining their skills by creating more advanced storyboards that include camera angles and effects.

To get into the Storyboard Artist Certificate Program at CalArts, applicants must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent and submit a portfolio demonstrating their ability to draw characters and tell stories visually. Additionally, applicants must pass an interview process conducted by faculty members from the School of Film/Video.

The cost of the Storyboard Artist Certificate Program at CalArts is approximately $7,000 for tuition plus additional fees for books and supplies.

10. Storyboarding and Visual Development Certificate Program at Art Center College of Design

Storyboarding and Visual Development Certificate Program at Art Center College of Design is a program designed to help students develop the skills necessary to create compelling visual stories. The program focuses on the fundamentals of storyboarding, visual development, and concept art for film, television, video games, and other media. It provides students with an in-depth understanding of the creative process from initial idea to final product.

The Storyboarding and Visual Development Certificate Program is offered as a two-year program that can be completed in one year if taken full-time. The program consists of three core classes: Storyboarding Fundamentals, Visual Development Fundamentals, and Concept Art Fundamentals. These classes provide students with an understanding of the principles of storyboarding and visual development, as well as an introduction to digital tools used in these disciplines.

In order to get the Storyboarding and Visual Development Certificate Program at Art Center College of Design, applicants must meet certain academic requirements such as having a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, they must submit a portfolio demonstrating their artistic abilities along with their application materials.

The cost for the Storyboarding and Visual Development Certificate Program varies depending on whether you are taking it full-time or part-time. Full-time tuition is approximately $17,000 per year while part-time tuition is approximately $13,500 per year. Additional fees may also apply such as lab fees or technology fees.

Do You Really Need a Storyboard Artist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your goals and the type of storyboard artist you want to become. If you are looking for a job in the entertainment industry, then having a Storyboard Artist Certificate may be beneficial as it can show employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary for the position. However, if you are an independent storyboard artist or freelancer, a certificate may not be necessary as experience and talent are more important than any certification.

In most cases, a Storyboard Artist Certificate is not required to land a job in the entertainment industry. Many employers value experience over credentials when hiring storyboard artists. This means that if you can demonstrate your abilities through your portfolio, resume, and references, then a certificate may not be necessary. In addition, many employers prefer candidates who have had some hands-on training or education in art or animation.

On the other hand, having a Storyboard Artist Certificate can be beneficial if you are just starting out in the field or switching careers from another related field such as graphic design. A certificate provides proof of your skillset and can help set you apart from other applicants who don’t have one. It also shows employers that you are committed to improving your skillset and taking initiative to develop professionally.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Storyboard Artist Certificate depends on what kind of career path you want to take and how serious you are about becoming a storyboard artist. If it is something that interests you and could potentially help advance your career, then it may be worth considering obtaining one.

Related: Storyboard Artist Resume Examples

FAQs About Storyboard Artist Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a certified storyboard artist?

Answer: To become a certified storyboard artist, you must have an accredited degree in art or animation, demonstrate relevant work experience, pass an exam administered by the certifying body, and meet any additional requirements set forth by that certifying body.

2. What type of training is needed for storyboard artist certification?

Answer: Training for storyboard artist certification typically involves classes in illustration, drawing fundamentals, anatomy, perspective, and other related subjects. You may also need to take coursework in digital media software such as Adobe Photoshop or After Effects.

3. How long does it take to become a certified storyboard artist?

Answer: The length of time required to become a certified storyboard artist can vary depending on your educational background and experience level. Generally speaking, it takes several months to complete the necessary courses and exams and obtain certification.

4. How much does it cost to become a certified storyboard artist?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified storyboard artist can vary depending on the certifying body you choose and any additional fees associated with taking their exam or completing their program requirements. Generally speaking, you should expect to pay several hundred dollars for certification costs.

5. Are there any benefits of being a certified storyboard artist?

Answer: Yes! Being a certified storyboard artist can give you access to higher paying jobs and better job opportunities as well as provide credibility when applying for new positions or contracts. It can also give you recognition from peers and employers that you are qualified for the role of a professional storyboard artist.