What is 2D/3D Animation?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Sarjana SinhaContent Writer
2D & 3D Animation course equips you with the skills to create compelling animations in both 2D (two-dimensional) and 3D (three-dimensional) formats. In 2D animation, you'll learn traditional hand-drawn techniques, digital 2D animation using software like Adobe Animate or Toon Boom Harmony, character design, storyboarding, and animation principles. For 3D animation, you'll delve into 3D modeling and sculpting using software like Maya, Blender, or ZBrush, and learn texturing, lighting, and rendering to create realistic visuals, along with applying animation principles to 3D characters and objects.
Eligibility criteria for Diploma or certificate courses for 2D & 3D animation typically require a 10+2 education (high school graduation) or equivalent degree. The Bachelor of Animation course usually requires a 10+2 education with a minimum percentage that varies by university. Postgraduate programs, like a Master's in Animation, generally require a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Animation, Fine Arts, or Design.
Courses relating to Animation can also be pursued from online portals such as Udemy, Coursera, and edX, which provide various Animation Certificate Courses and Free Online Animation Courses. The 2D/3D Animation entrance exams include NID Entrance, SEED, SUAT, CUET, CUET PG, etc. The entrance exam is not mandatory for all colleges.
The best 2D and 3D animation colleges in India are the National Institute of Design, Amity University Mumbai, Parul University, Chandigarh University, UNIPUNE, Loyola College, etc. The 2D/3D animation course fees range from INR 10,000 to INR 25.1 Lakh annually, depending on the college.
After completing a 2D/3D Animation course, students can seek job opportunities such as Studyboard Artist, Character Designer, Art Director, 3D Artist, Layout Artist, Technical Animator, Graphic Designer, etc. 2D and 3D animation salaries in India, on average, range from INR 6 LPA to INR 17.92 LPA, which may vary.
2D 3D Animation Course Details: Highlights
Refer to the 2D 3D Animation course highlight provided below and learn about the academic qualifications needed to enroll and explore some of the top-ranked colleges in India offering these programs-
Particulars |
Details |
---|---|
2D 3D Animation Course Levels |
UG, PG, Diploma, and Certificate |
2D 3D Animation Course Duration |
UG: 3 Years PG: 2 Years Certificate & Diploma: 6 months to 1 Year |
2D 3D Animation Entrance Exams |
NID Entrance, SEED, SUAT, CUET, CUET PG, etc |
2D 3D Animation Course Fees |
INR 10,000 - INR 25.1 Lakh |
2D 3D Animation Job Profiles |
Studyboard Artist, Character Designer, Art Director, 3D Artist, Layout Artist, Technical Animator, Graphic Designer, etc. |
2D 3D Animation Average Salary |
INR 6 LPA- INR 17.92 LPA |
2D 3D Animation Top Recruiters |
Acer, Accenture, Adobe Systems Pvt. Ltd, Amazon Global Vision, Google Vision, Google Inc, Pent Media Graphics, Maya Entertainment, Toonz Animation India, etc. |
2D 3D Animation Best Colleges |
National Institute of Design, Amity University Mumbai, Parul University, Chandigarh University, UNIPUNE, Loyola College, etc. |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
2D 3D Animation Scope Relevant Information-
Character Design in Animation: 2D, Anime & 3D Styles
Hi,
It is one of the fastest growing career choices in today's times. Animation artists have a great career opportunities in India as well as abroad. Students can either do freelancing as storyboard and pre-production visualizers or work as art directors and as part of creative teams in channels such as Channel [V], MTV, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, and in multimedia agencies like Tata Interactive, Infosys and production houses like Famous House of Animation, Vaibhav Studio, and Miditech.
Hope this resolves the query !
Yes, animation is a good career option. Its growing usage can be seen in Animation and cartoon industry. Channels like Disney, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, etc. are a few example of this. Students who enrol in an animation programme can pursue careers in the film, television, advertising, virtual reality, and animation industries, among other fields.
The flourising entertainment and gaming industries has created several job opportunities for animators are expanding at a rapid pace. Animation has throughout time developed a solid foothold in the cinema, television, and advertising industries due to the considerable use of special effects. Click to learn B.Sc. in Animation and Film Making.
- 2D 3D Animation Courses and Eligibility Criteria
- Top 2D 3D Animation Entrance Exam
- 2D 3D Animation Syllabus
- Best 2D 3D Animation Colleges in India
- Popular Private 2D / 3D Animation Colleges in India
- 2D 3D Animation Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
- 2D/3D Animation FAQs
- Most Popular Courses
- Popular 2D / 3D Animation UG Courses
- Popular 2D / 3D Animation PG Courses
2D 3D Animation Courses and Eligibility Criteria
India's animation sector is expanding at an exponential rate. Its appeal is mostly due to the animated films that have recently become more and more well-known worldwide. There are Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, and certification (short-term and long-term) courses available in 2D 3D animation.
The table below will help the students in getting an idea about the different levels of animation courses in India along with their eligibility and the courses offered.
Course Level | Eligibility Criteria | Typical Duration |
---|---|---|
Diploma/Certificate Program |
Class 10 education (high school graduation) or equivalent. Some institutes might require a portfolio showcasing artistic skills or prior experience in design or animation (varies by institute). |
6 months to 1 year
|
Undergraduate Program (Bachelor of Animation or similar) |
Class 10+2 education with a minimum percentage requirement (varies by university). Some universities might consider scores from national entrance exams (if applicable) or conduct their own aptitude tests. |
3 years (full-time)
|
Postgraduate Program (Master's in Animation or related field) |
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field like Animation, Fine Arts, or Design. A portfolio showcasing animation skills is usually mandatory. |
1-2 years (full-time)
|
2D & 3D Course Relevant Information:
Animation Course Admission 2025
Below mentioned are course-wise duration for this programme:
- Certificate: 6 months - 1 year.
- Diploma: 1 - 2 years.
- Undergraduate: 3 - 4 years.
- Postgraduate: 2 years.
In the 2D animation technique, images appear in two dimensions. There are two types of techniques used in 2D animation. The first one is the traditional technique and the second is about computer-generated 2D animation photos which use 2D software. On the other hand, 3D animation is an advanced technique of animation and has taken over the traditional technique. Computerized techniques and software like Max, Maya, 3D, and many others are used in the 3D animation process.
Moreover, a 2D & 3D Animation course provides skills applicable beyond traditional animation, offering opportunities in game design and development, visual effects (VFX) for films and television, and motion graphics for presentations and marketing. The animation industry offers creative freedom and the potential for a fulfilling career. Specific course content, duration, and fees vary depending on the institute and programme type, so it's essential to research options to find the programme that best aligns with your interests and career goals.
Additionally, some programs offer specializations in 2D & 3D Animation, such as character animation, environment design, or motion graphics. Building a strong portfolio showcasing your animation skills is crucial for landing jobs in the industry, and many courses emphasize portfolio development throughout the program.
2D 3D Animation Course Relevant Information-
Top 2D 3D Animation Entrance Exam
According to their performance on an entrance exam, the majority of well-known animation universities shortlist applicants for admission to their animation courses. Candidates must respond to questions on media aptitude, logical thinking and deduction, general knowledge, current events, and English language skills as part of the format of these admission exams.
Some popular entrance exams for 2D and 3D animation courses conducted in India are listed below.
Entrance Exams 2025 | Exam Date 2025 | Exam Schedule 2025 |
---|---|---|
NID Entrance 2025 | 3 May 2025 | NID Entrance Exam Date 2025 |
CUET UG 2025 | 13 May - 3 June 2025 | CUET Exam Date 2025 |
CUET PG 2025 | 13 March - 1 April 2025 | CUET PG Exam Date 2025 |
SUAT 2025 | 27 Jan 2025 | SUAT Exam Date 2025 |
SEED 2025 | 4 May 2025 | SEED Exam Date 2025 |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.
Quick Links Related to Animation Stream:
MSc in Animation Course Details
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Students can pursue 2D/3D Animation courses after completing Class 10th or Class 12th with a minimum percentage as required by the institution or college. 2D and 3D course admissions are based on both merit and entrance exam.
The most popular entrance exams for the 2D and 3D Animation course are NID Entrance, SEED, SUAT, CUET, CUET PG, etc. Most admissions to 2D and 3D animation courses are based on merit scores and do not require an entrance exam qualification.
The admission eligibility varies for different colleges in India.
BSc animation entrance exams include JMI, SEED, SHIATS, etc. Admission to the BSc Animation course is based on class 12 merit and entrance exam qualifications. The entrance exam is not mandatory for admission to all BSc Animation colleges in India.
Students must know that BSc Animation requires at least 50% marks in Class 12 for admission. The eligibility criteria for Animation courses on different education levels varies for different colleges in India.
Students can check BSc Animation entrance exams from the link below:
2D 3D Animation Syllabus
The duration of animation courses offered at different animation colleges ranges from six months to two years. Interested candidates can pursue a 2D or 3D animation course. However, going by the trend these days, one should pursue a 3D animation course only.
Depending on their educational background, candidates should select the appropriate Animation course. This specialisation course entails skilled professional training in creating visual effects for different media. The course also provides knowledge of all major Animation software, including Autodesk Maya and Adobe Photoshop.
Typical Core Subjects in Animation are given below:
Subject Title | Subject Description |
---|---|
3D Animation |
By helping you clear your foundational knowledge, the course will help you to analyse different Animation styles and techniques further. With this course, students will learn how to apply certain Animation principles. Concepts covered here are:
|
Multimedia |
This course studies the different forms of media available to us: audio, visual, and text used to create truly immersive content experiences. It involves the analysis and interpretation of multimedia data with contemporary developments in the industry. This subject helps you learn the following:
|
Basic English |
English communication is an important part of any professional's life. Proficiency in the language can help you not just convey your ideas but also land relevant opportunities. This course will familiarise you with the basics of formal communication, apart from understanding the following:
|
Motion Graphics |
Motion graphics is defined as the collection of small pixels that use both graphical and text-based information in an interactive and text-based format. Here are some things you'll learn:
|
Visual Effects |
This course helps students understand the basic principles of visual effects design and equips them with the necessary tools and techniques to create amazing visual effects. The students will get hands-on knowledge of the following topics:
|
2D 3D Animation Career Related Information:
2D Animation Vs 3D Animation: Which is Easier?
Elective Subjects in Animation Syllabus
Typical Elective Subjects in Animation are tabulated below:
Subject Title | Subject Description |
---|---|
Professional 3D design with Cinema 4D |
This subject focuses on imparting knowledge around 3D modelling and motion graphics design. The students will use a specific tool called Cinema 4D to create these 3D models and designs. Topics covered here include:
|
Concept of Game Design |
India is one of the fastest-growing markets for gaming. With a large number of young Indians playing a slew of games, the demand is sure to rise in the coming years. This course builds on the fundamentals of game designing, covering the tools and techniques required to create entertaining games for all devices. The course includes a comprehensive overview of the following:
|
Web and UI/UX Design |
Web design is a field that's focused on creating eye-catching and functional websites that allow the user to perform certain actions. Alternatively, UI and UX design are focused on creating user interfaces to help technical teams visualise how a website/app appears to the end-user. This course talks about the following:
|
Design for Print |
The print industry is among the oldest in India, with multiple newspaper publications being released on a daily basis over the last 200+ years. This course gives you a deep dive into the techniques associated with designing for print. Topics covered here include:
|
Concept of Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) |
AR and VR are emerging technologies that will blur the lines between the real and virtual worlds. Through this course, students learn about the basics of AR/VR technology and its applications in the real world. Topics covered here are:
|
Note: The information provided above is taken from external sources and may vary.
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Here are some of the popular animation courses that candidates can pursue after completion of their 10+2:
- B.Des. in Communication Design
- B.Sc. in Graphic Design
- B.Des. in Animation and VFX
- BVA in Animation and Multimedia
- B.Sc. in Multimedia, Animation and Graphics
- B.Sc. in 3D Animation Film Making
- B.Sc. in VFX Film Making
- B.Sc. in Animation and Film Making
- B.Sc. in 3D Animation Film Making
- Diploma in Animation and VFX
Best 2D 3D Animation Colleges in India
Here are the best colleges for animation study in India; note that the institutes are not ranked in any particular order. The candidate can also check the courses offered by these top animation schools.
Best 2D and 3D Animation Private Colleges
India boasts 392 top private colleges offering 2D and 3D Animation courses. Listed below are the best private colleges providing 2D/3D Animation courses along with their respective fees:
College Name |
Tuition Fee |
---|---|
INR 3 Lakh |
|
INR 4.5 lakh |
|
INR 1.37 Lakh - INR 5.72 Lakh |
|
INR 2.28 lakh |
|
INR 5.85 lakh |
|
INR 93,300 – INR 1.03 lakh |
|
INR 5.25 lakh |
|
INR 2.1 Lakh - INR 27.88 Lakh |
|
INR 1.5 Lakh |
|
INR 35,000 - INR 60,500 |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
Best 2D and 3D Animation Government Colleges
India is home to 20+ of the best government animation colleges. Provided below are the fees for the top government colleges offering 2D/3D Animation courses in India:
College Name |
Tuition Fee |
---|---|
INR 12.22 lakh – INR 16.84 lakh |
|
INR 55,200 |
|
INR 15,100 |
|
INR 1.61 lakh |
|
INR 45,000 |
|
INR 1,800 |
|
INR 44,940 - INR 80,000 |
|
INR 48,420 - INR 73,860 |
|
INR 5,000 - INR 15,000 |
|
INR 1.82 Lakh |
Note- This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
Students Also Liked Topics On:
Top Animation Colleges in Delhi/ NCR
Top Animation Colleges in Mumbai
Top Animation Colleges in Kolkata
Top Animation Colleges in Bengaluru
Top 11 Popular Animation Colleges in India along with the courses offered
2D / 3D Animation Applications open. Apply Now
Many universities and colleges offer these courses. Some of the them include:
- NID
- IIT Bombay
- IGNOU
- NIFT
- Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID)
Many popular colleges in India provide 2D and 3D animation courses in a distance learning mode for students in India. Some of the best distance colleges for a 2D/3D Animation course are mentioned below:
2D/3D Animation Colleges | Total Tuition Fees (annually) |
---|---|
Samskara Academy | INR 4.25 Lakh |
IIMT Agra | INR 42,000 |
NIELIT Delhi | INR 5,000 - INR 15,000 |
ReEasy Animation | INR 12,000 - INR 40,000 |
Datapoint Mumbai | INR 7,000 |
Disclaimer: The data provided above is taken from external sources and may vary.
Popular Private 2D / 3D Animation Colleges in India
2D / 3D Animation Applications open. Apply Now
2D 3D Animation Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
A solid foundation in animation concepts, inventiveness, and competence with animation software like Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, Blender, or comparable programmes are frequently required for careers in 2D and 3D animation. Success in this fast-paced career also depends on ongoing education and remaining current with technological advancements and market trends.
2D 3D Animation Job Profiles in India
Candidates joining the animation industry can work in various job roles depending on their academic qualifications, skill set, and experience. Here are some of the popular job roles, along with the average annual salary. Check Career As an Animator.
2D 3D Animation Jobs |
Job Description |
2D 3D Animation Salary |
---|---|---|
2D Animator | Creates traditional hand-drawn or digital 2D animation for cartoons, explainer videos, games, and mobile apps. | INR 3.8 LPA |
3D Animator | Develops 3D models, characters, and environments using software like Maya or Blender. Animates these 3D elements to bring them to life. | INR 4.2 LPA |
Character Designer | Conceptualizes and designs characters with distinct personalities and appearances, considering factors like age, emotions, and backstory. | INR 5.1 LPA |
Storyboard Artist | Visually translates scripts into sequences of panels, depicting the flow of the story and camera angles. | INR 4.2 LPA |
Texture Artist | Applies textures, materials, and details to 3D models to create realistic or stylized visuals. | INR 4.3 LPA |
Rigging Artist | Creates a digital skeleton and control system for 3D characters, allowing animators to pose and animate them effectively. | INR 3.6 LPA |
VFX Artist | Uses 3D animation and compositing techniques to create visual effects for films, television shows, and commercials. | INR 3.3 LPA |
Motion Graphics Artist | Creates animated graphics for presentations, explainer videos, advertisements, and user interfaces. | INR 4.3 LPA |
Note- The above salary has been taken from external sources, and hence may vary.
2D 3D Animation Career Related Information:
VFX Courses After Class 12 - Eligibility, Entrance Exam, Top VFX Colleges in India
2D 3D Animation Top Recruiters
Animation industry is a good career option in India. However, candidates need to be highly skilled in the animation field. Given below are the names of a few popular animation companies that hire freshers.
Top 2D 3D Animation Recruiters |
|
---|---|
Maya Entertainment Ltd, Mumbai |
|
UTV Toonz |
Pentamedia Graphics, Chennai |
Heart Entertainment Limited, Hyderabad |
Crest Animation Studios Ltd, Mumbai |
Padmalaya Telefilms |
Silvertoon Studio, Mumbai |
Jadooworks Pvt Ltd, Bengaluru |
Nipuna Services, Chennai |
Given below are some popular job profiles in animation:
2 D Animator
Key Frame Animator
3 D Animator
Character Animator
Story Board Artist
Rigging Artist
Image Editor
Rendering Artist
Modeller
Lighting Artist
Clean Up Artist
Background Artist
Hi,
The 2D and 3D career opportunities are many nowadays and spanning various industries such as film, television, video games, advertising, and web design. Some of the roles are, Animator, Storyboard artist, Modeler, Rigging artist, Texture artist, Lighting artist, Compositors and a VFX artist. So as 3D animation becomes more popular there are positions in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) too.
Hope this resolved your query !
2D/3D Animation FAQs
Here are some common FAQs for this course:
Using 2D and 3D animation in your business can help with marketing and advertising, among other things, by providing interesting content and telling a compelling brand story. Animated product demos and service descriptions can make your offers more approachable, while animated logos and consistent branding will help your company stand out.
The versatility of animated material allows for low-cost product marketing across a number of media, and virtual prototyping simplifies design and production. The different benefits of using animation are further highlighted through interactive presentations, effective remote cooperation, and imaginative customer participation, all of which add to a more memorable and impactful business presence.
The decision of whether or not to work with 2D or 3D is often preference based on the animator as well as possibly the specific project. They both come with their benefits and the level of efficiency and effectiveness of both can be compared and are equal if practiced with a fair amount of proficiency.
Aspect | 2D Animation | 3D Animation |
---|---|---|
Drawing Skills | General Skills Ability in 2D drawing and illustration. | Demands professionalism in 3D modeling. |
Creation Process | Hand-drawn frame by frame animation. | It is to do with modeling with 3D figure and other related software. |
Understanding Motion | Focus on timing, pacing, and animation principles. | Demands spatial orientation for three operative dimensions. |
Artistic Output | Expression of feelings and narratives in graphic designs. | Meticulous attention to detail in a 3D environment. |
Learning Curve | Generally considered more accessible for beginners. | Can have a steeper learning curve due to complexity. |
Technical Proficiency | Less dependent on technical software skills. | Involves mastering 3D modeling, rigging, and animation. |
Flexibility | Often allows for a variety of artistic styles. | Offers versatility in creating realistic environments. |
Project Suitability | Well-suited for certain artistic and storytelling styles. | Ideal for projects requiring realistic 3D visualization. |
Depth and Perspective | Limited to 2D space; perspective is simulated. | Works in a true 3D space with depth and perspective. |
Examples | Traditional hand-drawn animation, 2D cartoons. | CGI films, video games with 3D characters and scenes. |
The 2D & 3D Animation future in India is expansive and brimming with potential. As the industry continues to grow, skilled animators will be at the forefront, shaping the future of visual storytelling and entertainment. If you possess a passion for animation and a creative mind, this field offers a rewarding and fulfilling career path.
Flourishing Animation Industry:
- Growth Trajectory: The Indian animation industry is experiencing phenomenal growth, fueled by the increasing demand for animation content across various sectors. This translates to a growing need for skilled 2D and 3D animators.
- Global Appeal: Indian animation studios are no longer just catering to the domestic market. The success of Indian animation on international platforms opens doors for animators to contribute to global projects.
Diverse Career Opportunities:
- Entertainment Powerhouse: Animation forms the backbone of the Indian entertainment industry, with opportunities in creating:
- Captivating cartoons and animated films.
- Engaging visual effects (VFX) for movies and television shows.
- Breathtaking animation for OTT platforms and streaming services.
- Beyond Entertainment: The demand for animation extends beyond entertainment:
- Educational Content: Creating interactive and engaging learning materials for schools and e-learning platforms.
- Explainer Videos & Advertising: Crafting visually compelling explainer videos for businesses and eye-catching animation for advertisements.
- Gaming Industry: The booming Indian gaming sector relies heavily on skilled 2D and 3D animators to bring game characters and environments to life.
- User Interface (UI) & User Experience (UX) Design: Animation plays a role in creating user-friendly interfaces for websites and applications.
Relevant Topics for 2D 3D Animation:
Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- B.Sc. in Animation and Visual Effects (Honours/ Research)Amity University, Mumbai
- Certificate in Animation PrimeArena Animation
- M.Sc. in Animation and Multimedia TechnologyChandigarh University (CU)
- B.Des. in Animation and VFXArtemisia College of Art and Design
- B.Sc. (Hons./ Hons. with Research) in AnimationJain Deemed-to-be University, Bangalore
- BVA in Animation and Game ArtsICAT Design and Media College
- PDP in 3D Animation Visual EffectsZICA Institute, Indore
- B.Sc. in Animation and Visual GraphicsAmity University, Jaipur
- B.Sc. in Media Graphics and AnimationP.A. Inamdar College of Visual Effects, Design and Arts
- Bachelor of Multimedia and CommunicationFarook College
Popular 2D / 3D Animation UG Courses
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered 2 weeks ago
If you want to study 3D animation, Chandigarh University provides a good setup. The 3D Animation Lab is made for hands-on learning. It has high-performance computers and industry software for complete 3D work. Students learn to design models, do rigging, add textures, and finally animate them. Rende
D
Beginner-Level 3
Answered 2 months ago
3D Animation course lets students delve into the techniques of creating a compeling design in three-dimensional formats. The couse on 3D animation lets you deep dive into 3D modeling and sculpting. The students are taught to create 3D animation designs using the software like Maya, Blender, or ZBru
D
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3D animation can be defined as advanced technique of animation. In 3D animation software like Max, Maya, 3D and others are used. The process of producing animated three-dimensional visuals in a computer setting is known as 3D animation.
These images were produced using 3D software, which enables animators to produce digital things that appear three-dimensional despite being on a two-dimensional surface. Animation professionals can make anything appear to be moving across three dimensions, from a video game character to an automobile in an advertisement. This is done through the use of visual effects and exact timing.