Course Overview
This course introduces students to the fundamental techniques and tools for creating dynamic animations and visual effects. Students will learn to animate vector and raster artwork, utilize text and typography effectively, and apply principles of pacing and timing. The curriculum covers key techniques such as masking, compositing, color correction, and animating layers in both 2D and 3D spaces. Additionally, the course explores the integration of sound design, the creation of interactive animations, and the use of emerging technologies. Students will develop skills in storyboarding and project management, preparing them to execute and deliver motion graphics projects across various platforms, including web, social media, and broadcast.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
3.0
Domestic fees
$652.73 - $664.77 See individual course offerings below for actual costs.
International fees are typically 3.4 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Create and animate vector artwork and shapes, integrating typography and pacing principles to enhance visual storytelling and communication.
- Utilize masking, compositing, and color correction techniques to create polished animations with special effects and enhanced visual appeal.
- Animate layers in 2D and 3D spaces, incorporating creative visual effects and using the principles of timing and motion to produce dynamic sequences.
- Demonstrate proficiency in industry-standard motion graphics software, incorporating emerging technologies to create innovative experiences.
- Develop strong conceptual and storyboard skills, planning and presenting motion graphics ideas with a focus on user engagement and interactive elements.
- Apply project management principles to plan, execute, and deliver motion graphics projects, ensuring timelines and quality standards are met.
- Utilize sound design and synchronization techniques to complement visual elements and enhance storytelling.
- Optimize animations for various platforms, considering file formats, resolutions, and export workflows for web, social media, and broadcast.
Effective as of Fall 2025
Related Programs
Motion Graphics: Adobe After Effects (GDES 3167) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Business + Media
- Graphic Design and Interactive Media
Diploma Part-time
- Video Production and Editing
Associate Certificate Part-time
Course Offerings
Fall 2026
Below is one offering of GDES 3167 for the Fall 2026 term.
CRN 52706
Dates
Sep 14 - Nov 30 Loading
- CRN 52706
- $652.73 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 14 - Nov 30 | Mon | 18:00 - 21:15 | Downtown DTC Rm. 880 |
Duration
11 weeks
Instructor
Mahmoud Abdel-Hai
Course outline
Important information
- Important course information will be sent to you prior to your course start date. Check your myBCIT email account to access this information.
- No class Oct 12 You will require access to the Adobe Creative Cloud in order to complete this course. Students who are currently registered in one or more BCIT Flexible Learning courses are eligible for a free Adobe Creative Cloud subscription from BCIT. For subscription information, please visit: kb.bcit.ca/student/using-adobe-software-for-students-3588/
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Winter 2027
Below is one offering of GDES 3167 for the Winter 2027 term.
CRN 93211
Dates
Jan 04 - Mar 22 Loading
- CRN 93211
- $664.77 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 04 - Mar 22 | Mon | 18:00 - 21:15 | Downtown DTC Rm. 850 |
Duration
11 weeks
Instructor
Jeff Schultz
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- Important course information will be sent to you prior to your course start date. Check your myBCIT email account to access this information.
- No class Feb 15. You will require access to Adobe Creative Cloud to start this course and it is your responsibility to have this access in place prior to course start. Students who are currently registered in BCIT Flexible Learning courses are eligible for a free Adobe Creative Cloud subscription from BCIT. Information explaining how to obtain an Adobe subscription is available on the BCIT Software Access webpage: kb.bcit.ca/student/adobe-creative-cloud-subscription-flexible-learning-student-3130/. It is important you have a stable and consistent internet connection to access course content. Please log into learn.bcit.ca using your BCIT student email and password on the first day of class. If you are taking Graphic design programs, here is the suggested order to take them. www.bcit.ca/files/business/pdf/flexible-learning-graphic-design-certificate-recommended-order-of-courses.pdf
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.