Certificate course in Character Design

Module 1: Introduction to 3D Character Design

1. Overview of 3D Character Design
2. Importance of characters in various industries (animation, gaming, virtual reality, etc.)
3. Brief history and evolution of 3D character design
4. Key principles of character design

Module 2: Basics of Anatomy and Proportions

1. Fundamentals of human and creature anatomy
2. Understanding proportions and symmetry
3. Skeleton and muscle structure
4. Anthropometry and character diversity

Module 3: Introduction to 3D Modeling Software

1. Overview of popular 3D modeling tools (e.g., Autodesk Maya, Blender, ZBrush)
2. Interface navigation and basic tools
3. Importing concept art for reference
4. Setting up a project and basic scene elements

Module 4: Polygonal Modeling Techniques

1. Blockout and base mesh creation
2. Refining the mesh with edge loops and subdivisions
3. Sculpting details with digital sculpting tools (if using software like ZBrush)
4. Creating accessories and clothing

Module 5: UV Mapping and Texturing

1. Unwrapping UVs for texturing
2. Introduction to PBR (Physically Based Rendering) materials
3. Texture painting and detailing
4. Normal, bump, and displacement maps

Module 6: Rigging and Character Animation Basics

1. Introduction to rigging for character movement
2. Creating a simple skeleton and controls
3. Basic character animation principles
4. Walk cycles, expressions, and gestures

Module 7: Lighting and Rendering

1. Setting up lights for character showcase
2. Introduction to different rendering engines
3. Rendering techniques for character presentation
4. Adjusting camera angles and composition

Module 8: Character Optimization and Performance

1. Polygon reduction techniques
2. LODs (Level of Detail) for real-time applications
3. Texture optimization
4. Rigging optimization for efficient animation

Module 9: Portfolio Development and Presentation

1. Building a professional character design portfolio
2. Showcasing character designs in a reel or demo
3. Preparing files for online portfolios and job applications