Certificate in Animation
Course Overview
Take the first step to becoming a professional animator
This Degree in Animation (QQI Level 6) is taught by leaders in creative media education, Pulse College, and allows students to take their first steps to becoming professional animators.
This programme is delivered in partnership with Pulse College.
Griffith College's Animation programmes are delivered in partnership with Pulse College, at their Smithfield Campus in Dublin 7. Smithfield sits just north of the River Liffey, a former industrial, cobblestoned quarter now known for its bars, markets and creative studios. Several established Irish animation studios are based nearby, giving students easy access to the industry they're training for.
Why study Animation at Griffith College?
Studying at Griffith College will introduce you to valuable professional workflows and teach you everything from the basics of animation through to full 3D modelling. With the significant benefit of hands-on experience, you will be taught beyond the standard levels required by academic institutions.
This practical experience is an essential element of our unique programme. This course covers the full range of topics from pre-production, production, and post-production in 2D and 3D animation, as well as the theory behind animation to create an in-depth understanding of the work you do.
During the course, you will learn about:
- The history and theory of animation
- Concept Art and Design
- Life drawing
- Storyboarding and layout
- Character modelling
- Basic texturing of 3D assets
- 3D rigging and animation
- 2D asset creation and animation
- Animation principles and concepts
- Experimental animation
- Pre-production and idea development
- Research methods
- Portfolio Development
Intake Dates
- Dublin - Full-Time - September 2026
Course Details
This course is delivered on the Pulse Games and Animation Campus in Smithfield, Dublin 7.
Modules
- Animation History: Research and Critical Analysis
- 2D Animation 1
- Life Drawing
- Portfolio Development
- 3D Animation 1
- Experimental Animation
- Storyboarding and Layout
- Concept Art
Timetables
Timetables TBC
How to Apply
International students
Entry onto the Certificate in Animation is based on a course interview. International students under 23 years of age will be required to submit High School Diploma Scripts and any additional Educational Certifications.
English Language
Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide proof of English proficiency. Griffith College accepts the Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency. For more information, please visit here.
How to Apply
Irish citizens under 23 years of age:
Must meet the following Leaving Certificate Entry Requirements:
- H5 or better in 2 subjects
- O6 / H7 in 4 additional subjects, incl. mathematics and English or Irish
Applicants must apply to Griffith College directly online using the Apply Online facility. All applicants must complete an interview with Pulse College.
Applicants under 23 years of age will need to upload a copy of the following;
- Photo ID (passport/driving licence)
- GNIB card, if applicable
- Leaving Certificate/High School Diploma Results
Applicants over 23 years of age (Mature students):
Will be asked for a copy of the following;
- Photo ID (passport/driving licence)
- GNIB card, if applicable
Apply directly to Griffith College below.
Fees
For purposes of fee calculation, residence is counted from the time of application.
Please note that not all If you have any questions about fees, please contact Pulse College directly.
Please note that not all study modes may be offered at all times; for confirmation, refer to the Intake dates on the Overview tab.
Tuition Fees
Study Mode: Full-Time
Dublin: EUR 9,850.00
Study Mode: Full-Time
Please refer to the Irish/EU Living Abroad Fees section.
Study Mode: Full-Time
Dublin
Non-EU Living in Ireland or abroad: Please refer to our Non-EU Tuition Fees section.
Non-EU students: a Medical Insurance, Student Services and Administration fee of EUR300 is payable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.
A 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below. The fees below relate to Year 1 fees only.
Sponsorship
Is your company paying for your course? Please contact Pulse College directly for information on Sponsorship.
2% Learner Protection Charge
All QQI accredited programmes of education and training of 3 months or longer duration are covered by arrangements under section 65 (4) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 whereby, in the event of the provider ceasing to provide the programme for any reason, enrolled learners may transfer to a similar programme at another provider, or, in the event that this is not practicable, the fees most recently paid will be refunded.
QQI Award Fee
Please note that a QQI Award Fee applies in the final year of all QQI courses. To find the relevant fee for your course level, please see the Fees page.
Progression
Academic Progression
In line with national policy, graduates from the Level 6 programme would be eligible to progress to Level 7 or 8 programmes. Graduates may wish to further extend their industry-based professional qualifications as new technologies and developments emerge.
Many of our alumni have successfully progressed into careers such as:
- Animator
- Character Designer for Games
- Concept Artist
- VFX Animator
- And many other roles across the creative media and entertainment industries
Whether pursuing further education or stepping directly into the animation industry, this programme equips students with the skills and portfolio to take the next step with confidence.
