An advanced diploma in digital graphics and animation syllabus typically covers foundational design principles, 2D and 3D animation techniques, and visual effects (VFX). Core subjects include graphic design fundamentals, digital illustration, character design, storyboarding, 3D modeling, rigging, lighting, rendering, and compositing. Students also learn industry-standard software and create a final project, often a portfolio or showreel. 

Core subjects

• Graphic Design and Digital Illustration: Principles of design, color theory, typography, layout, photo editing, vector art using software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Pre-production: Storyboarding, scriptwriting, character and environment concept art.
• 2D Animation: Traditional and digital animation techniques, including character design, keyframe animation, and motion tweens.
• 3D Animation: 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, lighting, and rendering using software like Autodesk Maya or 3ds Max.
• Visual Effects (VFX): Motion tracking, compositing, and special effects, often using software like Nuke and Adobe After Effects. 

Advanced and specialized topics

• Motion Graphics: Creating animated text, graphics, and logos for titles and advertisements.
• Game Art: Creating assets and characters for video games.
• UI/UX Design: Principles of user interface and user experience design, often with basic web design knowledge like HTML and CSS.
• Cinematography and Editing: Fundamentals of camera work, shot composition, and video editing. 

Projects and portfolio

• Hands-on projects: Creating and rendering digital assets, storyboards, and characters.
• Final project: Developing a portfolio or showreel of their work, which may include a short 2D or 3D animated film or an advertisement.