Phone: +1 (506) 635-3000
3D GENERALIST
Program Details
Program Name: Modeling, Texturing, and Lighting
Code: CAMMTL
Credential: College Diploma
Method of Study: Full-time
Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)
Starting Months: September
Domestic Tuition: $10,178.97 **
Location: Saint John Campus View on Map
Program Details
Semester | Domestic |
|---|---|
Fall 2025 | Open |
Fall 2026 | Not Available |
Fall 2027 | Not Available |
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The Modeling, Texturing, and Lighting program provides a specialized focus on the artistic and technical aspects of 3D asset creation for industries like film, gaming, animation, and visual effects. This program is designed to develop the skills needed to craft realistic and stylized 3D models, apply detailed textures, and implement advanced lighting techniques that bring scenes to life.
Students will learn to create high-quality 3D assets using industry-standard tools such as Maya, Blender, ZBrush, and Substance Painter. The curriculum emphasizes efficient UV mapping, realistic material creation, and the use of rendering engines like Arnold, V-Ray, or Unreal Engine to achieve stunning visual results.
The program also delves into the principles of lighting design, color theory, and composition, enabling students to create immersive environments and enhance storytelling through visual aesthetics. Hands-on projects and collaborative team experiences mimic real-world production pipelines, allowing students to develop practical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
Graduates of this program will emerge with a professional portfolio showcasing their work in modeling, texturing, and lighting, prepared to take on roles such as 3D modeler, texture artist, lighting artist, or environment artist in a variety of creative industries.
Technology Requirements
You will have access to the latest technology on campus, essential for completing this program.
Educational Pathways
Opportunities to receive transfer credits toward further study to attain a degree are available.
Alumni Impact
We take immense pride in the global impact of our alumni, whose contributions span major sectors such as construction, entertainment, and industry, shaping the future in Canada and beyond.
Term | Credits | Description |
|---|---|---|
Semester 1 | 15 | This semester offers a hands-on introduction to 2D digital production, animation, sound design, and game engines. Students will gain essential skills in multimedia creation, interactive storytelling, and digital workflows. Key areas of focus include designing 2D assets, mastering animation principles, exploring sound editing and integration, and working with game engine technology for real-time rendering and interactivity. By the end of the semester, students will have a solid foundation in digital media, preparing them for advanced studies in animation, game design, and interactive content development. |
Semester 2 | 15 | This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of digital sculpting, 3D modeling, texturing, shading, and compositing, equipping them with the skills necessary for careers in animation, game development, and visual effects. Students will master high-resolution digital sculpting in Z- Brush, hard surface modeling for mechanical and architectural objects, and character modeling techniques focusing on anatomy and topology. They will also explore texturing and shading to enhance realism through UV mapping and material creation. Additionally, the course covers the art of compositing, where students will integrate 3D elements into live-action or digital scenes using industry-standard techniques. |
Term | Credits | Description |
|---|---|---|
Semester 3 | 15 | This course expands on foundational 3D skills, focusing on creature modeling, environment design, advanced texturing, rigging, and compositing to equip students for careers in animation, visual effects, and game development. Students will explore creature modeling and sculpting, mastering techniques to create realistic and stylized characters. They will refine their texturing and shading skills, applying complex workflows for detailed surfaces and realistic materials. Character rigging fundamentals will introduce essential techniques for creating dynamic, animation-ready models. Additionally, students will design immersive environments for production, optimizing assets for animation and VFX pipelines. Finally, advanced compositing techniques will enable seamless integration of CG elements into live-action and digital scenes. |
Semester 4 | 15 | The final semester of the Modeling, Texturing & Lighting program is designed to prepare students for professional careers in animation, visual effects (VFX), gaming, and digital media production by bridging the gap between academic training and industry demands. This phase focuses on advanced 3D asset creation, portfolio development, and real-world industry experience, ensuring graduates are job-ready and competitive in the field. Students will develop a high-quality, industry-standard portfolio, showcasing their expertise in 3D modeling, texturing, shading, lighting, and rendering. Their work will highlight detailed character and environment models, realistic material applications, and optimized lighting techniques, meeting industry expectations for studio roles, freelance opportunities, and independent projects. Additionally, students will gain hands-on industry experience through internships or cooperative placements, allowing them to apply their skills to real-world projects, collaborate with professionals, and deepen their understanding of studio workflows, production pipelines, and industry-standard tools. |
Adobe Photoshop
Figma
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Premier
Adobe Express
Tuition
Term | Domestic Tuition |
|---|---|
Per Semester | $10,178.97 * |
Fees / One time
Fee Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | C$ 75.00 |
| Confirmation Deposit (non-refundable) | C$ 1000.00 |
| Late Payment Fee | C$ 25.00 |
Certificate/Diploma (per copy) | C$ 25.00 |
Transcript Fee (up to 5 copies) | C$ 25.00 |
Additional Costs
** The listed amounts are estimated totals for tuition, materials, student services, and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs beginning in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 or later. All fees are subject to change without notice. Please note that these estimates do not include the cost of books, which must be purchased separately by the student.
Financial Assistance
At CAM Institute of Design, we understand that financing your education is a crucial aspect of your academic journey. Here are various available options for financial support.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty.
All tuition & fees are charged and refunded in compliance with the CAM Student Contract
Career Opportunity
Graduates of a 3D Generalist program have versatile skills that open doors to a wide range of creative and technical roles in various industries, including film, gaming, animation, advertising, and virtual production. Career opportunities include:
- 3D Generalist: Work across multiple areas of 3D production, including modeling, texturing, rigging, lighting, and animation.
- 3D Modeler: Create detailed and optimized 3D models for characters, environments, and props.
- Texture Artist: Develop realistic or stylized textures and materials for 3D assets.
- Lighting Artist: Design and implement lighting setups to enhance mood, atmosphere, and realism in scenes.
- Character Artist: Focus on creating high-quality 3D characters for films, games, or animations.
- Environment Artist: Design and build immersive 3D environments for interactive and cinematic projects.
- Animator: Bring characters and objects to life through dynamic and realistic animation.
- VFX Artist: Create and integrate visual effects, including simulations for water, fire, and explosions.
- Game Artist: Contribute to the artistic aspects of video game development, such as asset creation and level design.
- Technical Artist: Serve as a bridge between artists and programmers, optimizing assets and ensuring smooth workflows.
- Motion Graphics Designer: Develop animated graphics for advertising, television, and online media.
- Virtual Reality (VR) Designer: Create immersive 3D experiences for VR platforms.
- Augmented Reality (AR) Designer: Design interactive 3D elements for AR applications.
Criteria for Selection
Applicants are selected based on their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- High school graduate or equivalent. **
- Completion of relevant courses in art, design, or computer studies is an asset.
- A portfolio showcasing creative work, such as sketches, 3D models, or digital artwork, is encouraged to demonstrate interest and aptitude will be an added benefit.
- Basic knowledge of 3D software or design tools (e.g., Blender, Maya) is a plus but not mandatory.
- A brief statement outlining your interest in the program and career goals. **
- Mature student status (16 years of age or older).**
- Students must go through 3 phases of tests. ** Studio Test, Aptitude Test, Final Interview.
- Ability to complete college assignments on time.
- Openness toward learning.
- Ability to do team workshops.
Please note that CAM is dedicated to supporting applicants in achieving success in their chosen program. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as higher grades than those specified may be necessary for acceptance.
Course exemptions
College credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
Program Outcomes
Graduates of the Modeling, Texturing, and Lighting course will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Create High-Quality 3D Models: Design and produce detailed, accurate, and optimized 3D models for use in various digital applications such as games, films, and visualizations.
- Apply Advanced Texturing Techniques: Develop and implement realistic and stylized textures using tools such as Substance Painter, Photoshop, and other industry-standard software.
- Understand UV Mapping: Efficiently unwrap UVs to create seamless textures and avoid distortion in 3D assets.
- Master Material Creation: Create complex materials and shaders that enhance the visual fidelity of 3D assets.
- Develop Effective Lighting: Use lighting techniques to create mood, atmosphere, and visual focus in 3D scenes, ensuring artistic and technical accuracy.
- Work with Rendering Pipelines: Render high-quality images and animations using software like V-Ray, Arnold, or Unreal Engine, optimizing for both realism and performance.
- Optimize Models for Performance: Balance detail and efficiency in modeling and texturing to meet project requirements for real-time applications or cinematic production.
- Understand Color and Light Theory: Apply principles of color theory and light behavior to create visually compelling and realistic scenes.
- Create Portfolio-Ready Projects: Produce high-quality, portfolio-ready 3D assets and scenes that demonstrate expertise in modeling, texturing, and lighting.
- Solve Technical and Artistic Challenges: Use creative problem-solving to overcome challenges in modeling, texturing, and lighting tasks.
These outcomes equip graduates with the skills to excel in specialized roles such as 3D modeler, texture artist, lighting artist, or environment artist in industries like animation, gaming, film, and advertising.
MODELING, TEXTURING & LIGHTING
OVERVIEW
Our Modeling, Texturing & Lighting program provides meticulous training in the art of creating 3D assets for movies and video games. The training includes a detailed exploration of materials, anatomy, sculpting, lighting, and design, cultivating understanding of form, texture, and intricate details. The program’s curriculum seamlessly integrates foundational education with technical training in software, providing students with a comprehensive skill set that meets current industry requirements.
COURSE STRUCTURE
Term | Credits | Description |
|---|---|---|
Semester 1 | 15 | This semester offers a hands-on introduction to 2D digital production, animation, sound design, and game engines. Students will gain essential skills in multimedia creation, interactive storytelling, and digital workflows. Key areas of focus include designing 2D assets, mastering animation principles, exploring sound editing and integration, and working with game engine technology for real-time rendering and interactivity. By the end of the semester, students will have a solid foundation in digital media, preparing them for advanced studies in animation, game design, and interactive content development. |
Semester 2 | 15 | This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of digital sculpting, 3D modeling, texturing, shading, and compositing, equipping them with the skills necessary for careers in animation, game development, and visual effects. Students will master high-resolution digital sculpting in Z- Brush, hard surface modeling for mechanical and architectural objects, and character modeling techniques focusing on anatomy and topology. They will also explore texturing and shading to enhance realism through UV mapping and material creation. Additionally, the course covers the art of compositing, where students will integrate 3D elements into live-action or digital scenes using industry-standard techniques. |
Term | Credits | Description |
|---|---|---|
Semester 3 | 15 | This course expands on foundational 3D skills, focusing on creature modeling, environment design, advanced texturing, rigging, and compositing to equip students for careers in animation, visual effects, and game development. Students will explore creature modeling and sculpting, mastering techniques to create realistic and stylized characters. They will refine their texturing and shading skills, applying complex workflows for detailed surfaces and realistic materials. Character rigging fundamentals will introduce essential techniques for creating dynamic, animation-ready models. Additionally, students will design immersive environments for production, optimizing assets for animation and VFX pipelines. Finally, advanced compositing techniques will enable seamless integration of CG elements into live-action and digital scenes. |
Semester 4 | 15 | The final semester of the Modeling, Texturing & Lighting program is designed to prepare students for professional careers in animation, visual effects (VFX), gaming, and digital media production by bridging the gap between academic training and industry demands. This phase focuses on advanced 3D asset creation, portfolio development, and real-world industry experience, ensuring graduates are job-ready and competitive in the field. Students will develop a high-quality, industry-standard portfolio, showcasing their expertise in 3D modeling, texturing, shading, lighting, and rendering. Their work will highlight detailed character and environment models, realistic material applications, and optimized lighting techniques, meeting industry expectations for studio roles, freelance opportunities, and independent projects. Additionally, students will gain hands-on industry experience through internships or cooperative placements, allowing them to apply their skills to real-world projects, collaborate with professionals, and deepen their understanding of studio workflows, production pipelines, and industry-standard tools. |
Adobe Photoshop
Figma
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Premier
Adobe Express
Tuition
Term | Domestic Tuition |
|---|---|
Per Semester | $10,178.97 * |
Fees / One time
Fee Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | C$ 75.00 |
| Confirmation Deposit (non-refundable) | C$ 1000.00 |
| Late Payment Fee | C$ 25.00 |
Certificate/Diploma (per copy) | C$ 25.00 |
Transcript Fee (up to 5 copies) | C$ 25.00 |
Additional Costs
** The listed amounts are estimated totals for tuition, materials, student services, and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs beginning in Fall 2025. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 or later. All fees are subject to change without notice. Please note that these estimates do not include the cost of books, which must be purchased separately by the student.
Financial Assistance
At CAM Institute of Design, we understand that financing your education is a crucial aspect of your academic journey. Here are various available options for financial support.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty.
All tuition & fees are charged and refunded in compliance with the CAM Student Contract
Career Opportunity
Graduates of the Modeling, Texturing, and Lighting program are equipped with specialized skills to pursue a variety of roles in industries such as film, animation, gaming, visual effects, advertising, and virtual production. Career opportunities include:
- 3D Modeler: Create detailed and optimized 3D models for characters, environments, props, and other assets.
- Texture Artist: Develop realistic or stylized textures and materials to enhance the visual quality of 3D assets.
- Lighting Artist: Design and implement lighting setups to create mood, atmosphere, and realism in digital scenes.
- Environment Artist: Craft immersive and visually stunning 3D environments for games, films, and VR/AR applications.
- Material Artist: Specialize in creating complex materials and shaders for use in rendering engines.
- Look Development Artist: Combine modeling, texturing, and lighting skills to define the final appearance of assets and scenes.
- Virtual Production Artist: Contribute to real-time rendering and visual production using tools like Unreal Engine.
- Render Wrangler: Manage and optimize rendering processes for high-quality output in production pipelines.
- Technical Artist: Bridge the gap between artists and programmers by ensuring assets are optimized for performance and aesthetics.
- VFX Artist: Work on creating visual effects that integrate seamlessly with modeled and textured elements in a scene.
- Game Artist: Develop assets and visuals specifically tailored for interactive gaming environments.
- Freelance Artist: Offer services in modeling, texturing, and lighting to clients across diverse projects.
These roles provide opportunities to collaborate on high-profile projects in entertainment and media, with ample potential for creative and technical growth in the dynamic world of 3D production.
Criteria for Selection
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- High school graduate or equivalent **
- Completion of relevant courses in art, design, or computer studies is an asset.
- A portfolio showcasing creative work, such as sketches, 3D models, or digital artwork, is encouraged to demonstrate interest and aptitude will be an added benefit.
- Basic knowledge of 3D software or design tools (e.g., Blender, Maya) is a plus but not mandatory.
- A brief statement outlining your interest in the program and career goals. **
- Mature student status (16 years of age or older) **
- Students must go through 3 phases of tests. **
- Studio Test
- Aptitude Test
- Final Interview
- Ability to complete college assignments on time.
- Openness toward learning
- Ability to do team workshops
Please note that CAM is dedicated to supporting applicants in achieving success in their chosen program. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as higher grades than those specified may be necessary for acceptance.
Course exemptions
College credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
CAREER OUTCOMES
Professionals skilled in Modeling, Texturing & Lighting have an extensive and multifaceted scope in the industry. These core skills are fundamental in various sectors, particularly in visual production and digital content creation. Artists specialized in these areas find a broad range of industry applications, including film and TV, gaming, advertising, and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR). The demand for Modeling, Texturing, and Lighting artists is consistently evolving, with opportunities in traditional sectors such as film and gaming, as well as emerging fields. The versatility of these skills allows for career growth and the ability to adapt to new technologies and industry trends.
CAREER OPTIONS
- Character Artist
- Environment Artist
- Texturing Artist
- Modeling Artist
- Lighting Artist
- Vehicle Artist
- Layout Artist
| Program Name: Modeling, Texturing & Lighting |
| Credential: Diploma |
| Method of Study: Full-time |
| Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters) |
| Batch Starts: September |
| Available Seats: 6 |
| Domestic Tuition: C$ 8,499.00 (per semester) |
ADDITIONAL FEES / PER SEMESTER
| Description | Domestic Student |
|---|---|
| Materials | C$ 1000.00 |
| Student Union Fee | C$ 75.00 |
| Technology & Learning Resources | C$ 350.00 |
ADDITIONAL FEES / ONE TIME
| Description | Domestic Student |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | C$ 75.00 |
| Confirmation Deposit (non-refundable) | C$ 1000.00 |
| Late Payment Fee | C$ 25.00 |
| Certificate/Diploma (percopy) | C$ 25.00 |
| Transcript Fee (Up to Five copies of transcript) | C$ 25.00 |
CRITERIA FOR SELECTION
- High school graduate
- Capability to function effectively and achieve output under set deadlines
- Capacity to be a fast learner (openness toward learning)
- Mindset towards precision work
- Ability to work in a team
- Ability to handle an intense program
IMPORTANT NOTES
- All tuition & fees are subject to adjustment at any time
- Weekly, per-course, or per-credit charges will not exceed full-time tuition and fees for the courses included in the program’s term
- All tuition & fees are charged and refunded in compliance with the CAM Student Contract
