Animator & VFX Artist

PROGRAM

Animator and VFX Artist

What does an Animator and VFX Artist do?

As an Animator and VFX Artist, you are responsible for designing movements and creating visual effects for 2D and 3D graphics. You also need to know how to plan and implement an animation project from idea to finished product.

You will learn to implement necessary visual effects in production, including everything from CGI (computer-generated imagery) and compositing (image processing) to motion capture (computer-processed motion recordings), as well as the various tools and software required to create them. At a specialized level, professionals typically focus on one of these areas.

Facts

_{^Location(s):}Stockholm, Boden_{^{Course Start:}}Sep 2025_^Duration:2,5 years_^Internship:30 weeks_^Language:English_^Degree:Higher Vocational Education Diploma

Applications & Tuition
_{^{Nordic applicants:}}

Feb 5 – May 12, 2025
No tuition fee (YH – government-funded)

_{^{International applicants:}}

Jan 7 – Apr 2, 2025
€23,000 (EUR)
_{^{Split into five semester installments}}

Open for application!

Board of Education

About the Program

The Futuregames Animator and VFX Artist program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to create high-quality animations and visual effects. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through industry-standard tools and workflows, with a strong focus on collaboration and project-based work. Guided by industry professionals, you’ll develop both technical and creative expertise while building valuable networks for your future career in animation and VFX.

Our program covers two key areas: Animation & VFX for film and live-action media, where you’ll learn to integrate computer-generated elements using techniques like green screen, rotoscoping, and compositing, and game Animation & VFX, where you’ll create visual effects for games, from environmental effects like rain and fire to gameplay-enhancing effects like magical spells and explosions. By mastering both, you’ll gain a versatile skill set for careers in film, games, and beyond.

Futuregames programs are accredited and regulated by the Swedish National Agency for Higher Vocational Education (MYH). We pride ourselves on making our programs as close to the professional industry as possible. The courses are developed in collaboration with our Educational Board, ensuring they meet industry standards and needs.

Courses

Intro to Game Production _^30YHP/6w
Animation VFX project 1 (Game Project 1) _^15YHP/3w
Look Development _^15YHP/3w
Rigging and Animation _^30YHP/6w
Game Engine _^20YHP/4w
Intro to Cinematic _^10YHP/2w
Animation VFX Project 2 _^20YHP/4w
Digital Cinematography _^10YHP/2w
Pre Vis and Shot Design_^20YHP/4w
Compositing _^20YHP/4w
Matchmoving & Rotoscoping _^10YHP/2w
Animation VFX project 3 _^35YHP/7w
Basic Coding _^10YHP/2w
Concept Art _^10YHP/2w
Digital 2D Animation _^20YHP/4w
Animation VFX project 4 _^20YHP/4w
Demo Reel Production _^50YHP/10w
Professional Development _^15YHP/3w
Graduation Project _^50YHP/10w
LIA – Lärande i Arbete _^150YHP/30w

^{Please note that the courses may be subject to change based on recommendations from our Board of Education to better align with industry needs.}

Skills and Careers

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of relevant development processes from the idea stage until an animation can be used in a professional context
Knowledge of animation using industry standard tools and technologies
Skills in working with communication, collaboration and time management
Knowledge of presentation techniques and pitching methodology relevant in a professional context
The competence in how to understand and benefit from knowledge and skills in managing animation or VFX projects, as part of a team of developers working with industry-standard tools. Both as a standalone project and in a modern game engine.
Knowledge of job application processes and professional industry network development

Career

The animation and VFX industry, particularly in Sweden, has strong ties to the gaming sector. Many Swedish game companies employ specialists dedicated solely to animation and VFX, while animation and VFX studios frequently collaborate with game companies in various capacities.

The program mainly leads to employment, but many animators & VFX artists are self-employed. Demand for the professional role can be found in industry, film, TV, advertising and, on behalf of Sweden, not least in the gaming industry.

Demand for the professional role can be found in:

TV
Advertising
Gaming industry
Industry
Film

Futuregames students in Boden, working in classroom.

What to expect

Master your craft, make your mark.

At Futuregames, you don’t just learn—you create. Collaborate on innovative projects and gain hands-on experience in a setup that mirrors the real world.

Our programs evolve with the industry, ensuring you gain the skills the market needs—today and tomorrow.

Learning by Doing

Hands-On Projects

You will actively participate in three intensive animation projects and one game project, collaborating with coursemates from our other programs. Experience practical learning through hands-on projects that replicate real-world industry workflows.

Learn from Industry Professionals

Gain practical knowledge from teachers and mentors with industry experience while building connections to support your future career.

Collaboration is key

Hours of Lecture

Out of a 40-hour week, you’ll spend around 10–12 teacher-led hours with your head teacher or guest lecturers.

The remaining time is dedicated to individual studies and group projects. Even when there are no scheduled classes, you are expected to be at school to collaborate and learn alongside your classmates. This collaboration is essential, as teamwork is one of the most important skills in game development.

Internship

Internship (LIA) is an essential part of the program, giving you the chance to step into the industry and work directly at a company. With support from professionals, you’ll apply your knowledge to real tasks, build your skills, and get a feel for how the industry works. It’s also a great opportunity to make connections and gain experience that will kickstart your career.

Image from student recruitment event TING in Boden.

Meet the industry at TING

The Details

Not sure what to include in your application? Don’t worry—here’s all you need to make your submission complete!

Application Guide for Nordic Residents

Application Guide for International students

Requirements

Work Samples

What to submit?

-Showcase your creativity alongside your skills. Submit 2 to 3 work samples. Please choose the work that can best show us your skills.

-Try to show that you have some sort of understanding of Animation, VFX, 3D creation or workflow,

-If you want to showcase animation/turntables or VFX, send a YouTube or Vimeo link.

-Your work sample should aim at showing your understanding of animation, VFX or 3D and your progress from start to finish.

-Detail your work sample both visually and in-writing. It is important to explain what you have done and the process you have been through.

-You can apply with a previous team project, but please specify in detail in what way you have contributed to the project.

Format?

In English.
Maximum five (5) pages.
Videos maximum length of 3 minutes.
Save in PDF format.
Name the file [firstname_surname.pdf].

There are no specific requirements for any Animation, VFX or 3D software. You can use the software that best suits you.

Futuregames will assess your work sample in the 3 following areas:

Visualization ability – assesses your artistic ability and how you express yourself.

Technical ability – assesses proficiency of utilization of the machine as tool.

Industry relevance – assesses the relevance of the presented content towards the range of industries where animation and VFX can be used

Which documents should you submit?

Student Projects

Every year, approximately 50 new games in total are produced by Futuregames students during game projects lasting between 4 to 8 weeks. Most of these games are available for free download and play!

Futuregames on Itch

You are the most beloved toy to a kid prone to nightmares, many nights have the kid suffered the 'mares', but no more! With the power of your kid’s love you are able to fight any nightmare coming it's way! The night is long, and the nightmares are relentless; it’s all on you to protect your kid! Download and play the game here

Spotlight Stories

25 March 2025
Futuregames Umeå: a new chapter for Stefan Eriksson
Stefan Eriksson is a Game Designer student with PC gaming in his blood. With a strong background in games and tech, he found the final piece of the puzzle at…
Game Development, Interviews, Student Interviews
Read more: Futuregames Umeå: a new chapter for Stefan Eriksson
24 March 2025
“My passion has always been game programming”
Meet Tobias Andersson, a former Futuregames Boden student who turned his love for game programming into a thriving and exciting career.
Game Development, Interviews, Student Interviews
Read more: “My passion has always been game programming”
20 March 2025
Oskar Wahlström – a lighthouse at Futuregames Umeå
With hands-on experience from both consultancy work and independent game development, Oskar Wahlström brings invaluable industry insights to his role as a mentor at Futuregames Umeå.
Game Development, Interviews
Read more: Oskar Wahlström – a lighthouse at Futuregames Umeå

FAQ

Is prior tech knowledge mandatory?

What software skills are required?

Get in touch

If you have questions about courses, portfolios, or the program, get in touch with our Heads of Education. For help with your application, eligibility, or admissions, reach out to our admissions team. You can find more details on our contact page.

Continue to the contact page

Sweden – Skellefteå
Ahmad Priabudiman
Head of Education Animation & VFX Artist
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