Advanced VFX (Virtual Production)
Looking for a career that connects your passion for digital art with film and video games? Through our Advanced VFX (Virtual Production) program you'll learn the skills you need to create the digital special effects in movies, TV shows and games. At KPU, you'll receive hands-on training with the tools of the trade to take on visual effects and motion graphics roles in the entertainment arts industry.
We've developed an intensive curriculum, in partnership with the Centre for Entertainment Arts, with 96 credits delivered over six consecutive terms. This compressed delivery ensures a more comprehensive education, while allowing you to complete the diploma and be ready for the job market in the quickest time possible.
Student Success
Niraj Dudani
Niraj Dudani, an Advanced Visual Effects (VFX) student from India, shared insights in a recent conversation about his final sixth semester at Kwantlen Polytechnic University's Entertainment Arts program. He discussed his Compositing demo reel project, emphasizing his journey and passion for the role of a VFX compositor, adding magic to filmmaking.
Over five semesters, Niraj and his peers explored various aspects of the VFX production pipeline, refining their expertise in modeling, lighting, compositing, matte painting, and FX for visual storytelling.
Niraj credits much of his growth in the Compositing department to the invaluable mentorship of Pedro Cal, a seasoned instructor at KPU. Pedro's guidance fueled Niraj's artistic fervor, playing a pivotal role in his journey toward becoming a skilled Compositing artist.
Why Study Visual Effects @ KPU?
Our Advanced Visual Effects (VFX) program delivers a comprehensive education, covering the core practical and artistic skills you need to confidently enter the fast-growing film and game industries.
You'll learn the about pre- and post-production, critical analysis and review, realistic production schedules and soft skills, like team work, creative problem solving, communication and collaboration. You'll also learn to use a wide range of industry standard software and tools, processes, and workflows.
Plus, we'll help you create and develop a professional demo reel in line with the latest industry trends. So, you'll not only have the skills and experience but a killer portfolio to prove it. We know the industry and have the connections to help you find opportunities in studios, as soon as your skills and professional development allow.
Who Studies Visual Effects?
The advanced curriculum of this diploma program attracts a range of students, including industry professionals and mature students who have a proven background in a creative or technical field. The program is intended to empower artists with the creative and technical skills needed to enter the demanding VFX, games and film industries.
Our goal is for you to graduate as a production-ready artist, well-versed in theory, software, tools and processes, as well as many soft skills. In fact, you could find work before you graduate.
International graduates are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, which allows you to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation.
Program Overview
We've designed the Diploma in Advanced VFX (Virtual Production) with a comprehensive curriculum to prepare you to enter the entertainment and creative arts industry confident and job-ready. Leveraging KPU's hands-on approach to learning, this two-year, full-time program delivers you the core practical and artistic skills employers look for and introduces you to industry software, such as Unreal, Nuke, Houdini and other leading-edge software.
This diploma program focuses on the fundamentals of visual effects and the integration of virtual production workflows and pipelines. You'll study a range of specializations in VFX, such as modelling, sculpting, texturing and surfacing, lighting, compositing and more.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Diploma in Advanced VFX (Virtual Production) have the knowledge, skills and confidence to work for animation and visual effects studios, film companies, game development companies, or to pursue their own goals through self-publishing.
Graduates are qualified to as an FX artist, compositor, modeller, lighter, texture artist, matchmove artist or 3D generalist.
Students that apply themselves and maintain a high academic standing are more than capable of compiling a professional portfolio/demo reel and applying for work prior to graduation.
Portfolio Requirements
Once you have completed your application, you will receive instructions on how to submit your portfolio. Your portfolio is your chance to show us your creative skills and interests. Please visit, Entertainment Arts Portfolio Requirements for more information, including suggestions on what to put in your portfolio.