Why Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking?
Create seamless VFX sequences and bring stories to life.
You will learn how to work in a range of VFX departments, including Prep, Layout, and Compositing, and gain an understanding of the VFX production pipeline from start to finish.
Studying this program will equip you with specialist skills in compositing, paint and rotoscoping, 3D tracking and character matchmove while you learn in a simulated studio environment on-site at Rising Sun Pictures. You will also graduate with your own industry standard visual effects showreel.
Overview
Adelaide University’s Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking will equip you with valuable skills applicable to the global visual effects industry.
Designed in partnership with award winning VFX company Rising Sun Pictures, and delivered on site in their Adelaide studio, you’ll develop advanced skills in industry standard software like Nuke, Maya, Silhouette and 3D Equalizer and be taught by experienced artists and supervisors.
In this immersive qualification you’ll develop industry standard skills in compositing, rotoscoping, paint, character matchmove and 3D tracking, and gain the career management skills and professional practice standards needed to work in a professional VFX studio. While learning the key aspects of various VFX departments, including Prep, Layout, and Compositing, you’ll get the opportunity to plan, iterate and deliver a collaborative, team project to meet a production brief and deadline to industry standards.
You’ll graduate career ready with expertise in current trends, technologies, and professional practices, along with local, national, and international industry contacts, with first-hand experience of how a world class VFX studio operates.
Key features
Gain invaluable experience and learn in a simulated studio environment.- Build industry-standard expertise in compositing, 3D tracking, character matchmove, paint and rotoscoping, and practice your skills on shots from RSP’s filmography of previous Hollywood feature films.
- Be mentored by experienced visual effects artists and supervisors.
- Work with Rising Sun Pictures recruitment team to professionalise your resume and showreel.
- Establish valuable networks with local and national industry professionals.
- Graduate with an industry standard compositing and tracking showreel.
What you'll learn
The Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking is an advanced qualification that will expand your understanding of the VFX production pipeline, and provide specialist skills in compositing, paint and rotoscoping, and 3D tracking.
Under the guidance of highly skilled visual effects artists and supervisors you will develop your compositing and tracking skillsets and have the opportunity to practice on RSP’s filmography of Hollywood blockbusters. You will also get to work collaboratively with your peers and supervisor to deliver an advanced project to a production brief and deadline.
You will build foundational and contextual knowledge of contemporary VFX practices, and an understanding of creative, technical, and operational roles within the VFX industry. Gain insight into operational workflows in professional VFX departments, including business development, pipeline management, accounting, and recruitment to develop a well-rounded skillset for various career pathways.
Learning in RSP’s custom built simulated studio environment, you will learn to create complex composited sequences for film and episodic series. Your studies will cover topics on:
- Introduction to 3D tracking: Learn a variety of visual effects camera tracking skills and techniques in order to create production standard matchmoves.
- Plate preparation techniques: Be introduced to the preparation work required for scene set up and learn a variety of skills and techniques in order to create production standard paint, rotoscoping and compositing.
- Compositing production project: Develop advanced compositing and tracking skills, and work on a collaborative project with your peers under the guidance of your VFX supervisor.
- Visual effects professional practice: Develop an understanding of professional practice standards in the VFX industry and the various roles and departments within the VFX pipeline.
You’ll study on-site at RSP in their simulated studio environment, and graduate with an industry standard compositing and tracking showreel. You'll showcase your work to peers, RSP staff, as well as local and national VFX recruiters.
This qualification is focused on industry experience and insight – and from day one you will be studying alongside industry professionals, building important relationships and networks, and learning on the job. Rising Sun Pictures has created VFX shots for over 200 films and episodic series including Star Wars, Indiana Jones, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Game of Thrones, Mortal Kombat, The Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter.
What courses you'll study
Complete 24 units comprising:
- 24 units for all Core courses
Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Visual Effects Professional Practice
|
Course code
COMP5007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Compositing Production Project
|
Course code
COMP5008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Plate Preparation Techniques
|
Course code
COMP5009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to 3D Tracking
|
Course code
COMP5010
|
Units
6
|
Notes
1. The Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking is available as full-time only. Students must enrol in all four courses, and will attend class from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Friday over 12 consecutive weeks at the Adelaide production studios of Rising Sun Pictures.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Compositing Production Project
|
Course code
COMP5008
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Introduction to 3D Tracking
|
Course code
COMP5010
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Plate Preparation Techniques
|
Course code
COMP5009
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Visual Effects Professional Practice
|
Course code
COMP5007
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
The specialist skills you’ll develop in this program will provide a direct pathway into a variety of roles in the visual effects industry, while the knowledge and understanding you gain of the broader VFX industry, could lead to a career in related screen industries such as film and broadcast television.
Maybe you’ll work as a compositor, constructing the completed shot and combining live-action plates with a range of CG elements. Or perhaps you could become a layout artist, and work alongside the animation director and VFX supervisor to create camera moves and blocking animation within a digital environment.
You may also work in the following roles:
- Digital preparation artist: digitally preparing the plate ready for the final image
- 3D Digital matte painter: creating virtual backgrounds to replace or enhance live action photographed plates
- Production coordinator: ensuring all aspects of a production run on time and to budget
- VFX producer: responsible for running the project
- VFX supervisor: ensuring VFX shots are ready for post-production
- Technical services operator: responsible for monitoring and controlling the rendering process within the production of VFX shots
- Roto artist: highlighting areas in live action frames where computer graphics overlap with live images.
Industry trends
Careers in Post, Digital and VFX are on the rise both in Australia and globally. In 2023, the industry was worth $714 million, a 21% increase compared to the previous year (Screen Australia, 2023).
Adelaide University will prepare you to meet the needs of this growing industry on Australian and international stages, through work with leading industry partners and a globally relevant curriculum. Graduate with industry-standard compositing and tracking skills, along with valuable project management abilities that are useful in various roles.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
