Graduate Certificate in Compositing and Tracking

Postgraduate | 2026

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Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
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Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, August
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Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load.
0.5 year(s) full-time
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Program code
GCCOT
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Study as
Full time or part time
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Indicative annual fees
Commonwealth Supported students are charged a portion of the cost of their higher education through a student contribution. Fee-Paying programs require the full tuition fees of your study, which can be deferred partly or in full to a FEE-HELP loan. Where the duration of the program is less than one year, the total cost of the program is displayed.
$29,200
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Please enter this SATAC code when applying for this degree via the SATAC website
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Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
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Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
Prospective students should have entry level skills/knowledge in compositing and tracking, or broad entry level skills/knowledge in visual effects.
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirement and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

  •  A completed bachelor degree (AQF level 7) or higher from a recognised higher education institution; OR
  •  A completed Advanced Diploma (AQF level 6) from a registered training organisation (RTO); OR
  •  Three years experience in the visual effects industry or the creative industries with a relevant show reel of visual effects work.

 

Additional requirements

All applicants must submit a CV and a 60-second visual effects show reel.

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Note:

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

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.

program overview

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.

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 icon
Course name
Visual Effects Professional Practice
Course code
COMP5007
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Compositing Production Project
Course code
COMP5008
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Plate Preparation Techniques
Course code
COMP5009
Units
6
course icon
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

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How to apply

Applications are open for Australian students to study at Adelaide University in 2026.

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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.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

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. 
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