ISFS4201 - 3D Fundamentals

This course introduces the fundamental concepts of 3D design, modeling, texturing, lighting, animation, rendering, and asset production for interactive media, games, simulations, and digital applications. Students will learn the complete 3D production pipeline and develop a semester long 3D project using industry standard software (Blender, Autodesk Maya, or equivalent). The curriculum covers 3D graphics principles, 2D vs 3D concepts, production pipeline, workspace navigation, object manipulation (transformation, coordinate systems), basic and advanced modeling (primitives, polygon modeling, extrude, inset, bevel, topology, edge loops, hard surface and organic modeling), UV mapping, materials and textures, lighting techniques (types of lights, shadows, reflections, environmental lighting), cameras and rendering (composition, render engines, settings), animation principles (keyframes, timeline, motion), character/object animation, rigging introduction, particle systems and visual effects, asset optimization (polygon count, texture size, real time rendering, game asset workflow). Through hands on studio practice and a project-based approach, students will gain practical skills to produce professional 3D assets and scenes.