Short courses

Get started with Adobe After Effects

Create and manipulate motion graphics, visual effects and more.

Key details
Location
Online

Course overview

This introductory course in Adobe After Effects is designed to provide beginners with a solid foundation in the software, guiding them through essential tools, techniques, and workflows for creating motion graphics and visual effects. 

By the end of the course, participants will have a clear understanding of the After Effects interface, key concepts of animation, and basic video compositing. They will be able to create simple animations, apply presets, and export their work to various platforms.  

 
 

Tuition fees per individual: £125*

*If you're a student or staff different fees apply. Please visit our dedicated student and staff areas for specific information.

Course details

You will learn to create simple animations, like moving text and basic shapes, apply presets and work with layers. You’ll also know how to keyframe animations, add text, and export projects for various platforms.  

Session One   

  • What is After Effects?  
  • Getting started, creating Compositions in After Effects  
  • Importing assets: Video and Images  
  • Creating text and solid layers  
  • Animation Pre-sets  
  • Exporting  

Session Two  

  • Colour & Creating shapes  
  •  Animation from the start  
  • Useful & important keyboard shortcuts  
  • Other types of animation in the layer  
  • Introduction to Masks & 3D layers  
  • Creating & animating Light Layers 

Eligibility or prerequisites 

We require to be confident in using a computer with some Adobe application experience.

Susannah Travis

Susannah Travis - Course Lead


Susannah is the Digital Skills Team Lead, delivering a range of courses. With over a decade of experience in teaching Adobe and Microsoft applications, she specialises in both individual training and tailored group sessions. Her aim is to enable students to achieve a high level of digital literacy, enhancing their work and everyday lives.

Find out more

How you'll learn

Our online short courses are delivered through Canvas, our online learning platform, with scheduled tutor-led sessions delivered through BigBlueButton, a browser-based online meeting tool, ensuring a seamless learning experience. Each session begins with a live online session where the tutor introduces the topic and guides learners through the course materials. Learning is supported through a range of methods, including videos and practical exercises, with tutors available throughout the session to provide guidance and answer questions. Our blended teaching approach combines live tutor support with high-quality online learning resources, creating an engaging and supportive learning experience. 

How to apply

Tuition fees per individual

£125*

*If you're a student or staff different fees apply. Please visit our dedicated student and staff areas for specific information.