3D Modeling has become an essential skill for designers to excel in their field. To get the best learning experience, check out the below-listed classes by Udemy, edX, CG Spectrum, and a few other free courses.
3D modeling has gained immense popularity in the past decade because of its versatile applications across industries, such as product design, architecture, gaming, and film.
| On average, a 3D modeler earns $71,132 in the United States as of August 27, 2024. However, the average salary ranges between $62,230 and $83,455. |
With the availability and accessibility of 3D modeling courses online, you get a convenient way to master and learn the techniques while staying current with the latest knowledge.
Their structured and comprehensive learning, hands-on projects, and industry-relevant skills offer a solid foundation and accentuate employability.
As an architect, I acknowledge the value of such online 3D modeling classes. So, I will present the seven best alternatives that helped me in many ways and maybe likewise for you.
Can 3D Modeling Be Self-Taught?
Yes, 3D modeling can be self-taught. The best way to learn 3D modeling is to combine resources. These include tutorials, 3D modeling books, courses, etc.
They offer step-by-step support and guidance for learning 3D modeling independently. Experimentation, practice, and dedication are the keys to getting proficient at it.
Which Is My Favorite Course and Why?
While I was looking for 3D modeling classes near me, I stumbled upon many options, but in my opinion, the Complete Blender Creator: Learn 3D Modeling for Beginners (Udemy) is the best alternative.
Beyond its high rating and bestseller status on Udemy, it provides continual updates to keep pace with market changes. Further, it is a project-based program and teaches everything you need to know to make a mark in the professional world.
In addition, its comprehensive content, experienced instructions, and the option to connect with a free community site make it stand out among other online courses.
Let’s check out the highlights of this course and others on the list. But before that, we will do a quick tabular comparison of all these courses.
Top 3D Modeling Courses
Here’s a comparative table of top 3D modeling courses, highlighting key details like the instructor, rating, duration, scope, and cons:
| Course Title | Author | Rating | Duration | Level | Scope | Cons | Get Access |
| Complete Blender Creator: Learn 3D Modeling for Beginners | GameDev.tv Team, Rick Davidson, Grant Abbitt | 4.7 based on 64,445 ratings | 13h 6m | Beginner | Covers Blender 3D modeling fundamentals and AAA-quality asset creation | Repetitive ideas | Sign Up Here |
| Blender 3D: Your First 3D Character | SouthernShotty3D | 4.5 based on 30,332 ratings | 1h 4m | Beginner | Character modeling and texturing with Blender, applicable to animation, motion design, and games | Instructor’s speed too fast, technical glitches in videos | Sign Up Here |
| 3D Modeling in Blender 2.8 for Unity Video Game Developers | Billy McDaniel | 4.6 based on 261 ratings | 7h 44m | Beginner to Advanced | 3D modeling for Unity-based games, hands-on experience, certification upon completion | Repetitive approaches, lacks complex models | Sign Up Here |
| Introduction to 3D Modeling (CG Spectrum) | Bryan Bentley, Anton Tenitsky, David Cunningham | N/A | 3 months | Beginner | Learn to create props, characters, and environments using Maya | Expensive, high weekly commitment | Sign Up Here |
| 3D Modeling With Maya: How to Model 3D Weapons From Scratch! | Animation Hacks | 4.1 based on 110 ratings | 2h 19m | Beginner to Advanced | Weapon creation for games, visual effects, and animation | Short duration, requires specific software | Sign Up Here |
| 4D Masterclass: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners | Ozgur Gorgun | 4.5 based on 13,671 ratings | 7h 45m | Beginner | Full 3D workflow with Cinema 4D covering modeling, lighting, texturing, and animating | Limited to Cinema 4D, restricted to motion design and animation | Sign Up Here |
Detailed Description of the Best 3D Modeling Courses
1. Complete Blender Creator: Learn 3D Modeling for Beginners (Udemy)
Cost: $34.99
Level: Beginner
Duration: 13h 6m
Rating: 4.7 based on 64,445 ratings
Instructor – GameDev.tv Team, Rick Davidson, and Grant Abbitt
- GameDev.tv was launched to enable students to design, develop, and sell Indie games. They have some of the top-rated and bestselling game development courses on Udemy.
- Rick Davidson has taught over a million students. He has compiled over 20 of the most popular online courses on Udemy. He is also the founding partner of the GameDev-TV team that helps aspiring gaming developers grow and create.
- Grant Abbitt is a 3D artist who learned Blender in the late 90s and has been using it for small motion graphics work for his self-owned film company. He has been teaching students from around the world for about 15 years.
| Pros | Cons |
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Industry Application
This course is relevant for careers in game development, 3D animation, and CGI, equipping professionals with essential modeling skills to create high-quality digital assets.
Bottom Line
It is the right course if you are only a beginner, as it will teach you all the modeling fundamentals you’ll need.
On the other hand, if you are an artist, it is an excellent course as it will help you teach how to bring assets to life. Lastly, the class will help you comprehend modeling and design principles if you are a coder.
2. Blender 3D: Your First 3D Character (Skillshare)
Cost: Paid, subscription-based
Level: Beginner
Duration: 1h 4m
Rating: 4.5 based on 30,332 ratings
Instructor – SouthernShotty3D, a renowned animator, art director, and illustrator who loves all things 3D and 2D. He works as an animator in Silicon Valley at a prominent social media giant.
| Pros | Cons |
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Industry Application
This course is useful for careers in animation, motion design, and video game development, providing foundational skills in character modeling and design with Blender.
Bottom Line
Overall, irrespective of certain downsides, it is an excellent class to help you design, model, and texture your 3D character.
3. 3D Modeling in Blender 2.8 for Unity Video Game Developers (Udemy)
Cost: $15.99
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Duration: 7h 44m
Rating: 4.6 based on 261 ratings
Instructor – Billy McDaniel started his creative journey as a musician about four decades ago. However, through the decades, he picked up various skills. Currently, he has about two decades of experience as an accomplished graphics artist, programmer, website developer, published author, animator, 3D modeler, video game developer, journalist, and photographer.
| Pros | Cons |
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Industry Application
This course is ideal for careers in game development and 3D modeling, helping professionals create and publish 3D models for Unity-based video games.
Bottom Line
It is a bestseller, actually one of the highest-rated courses, with a rating of 4.9, which justifies how well-received this class is. However, some simplifications and additions of complex models would add value to this course.
4. Introduction to 3D Modeling (CG Spectrum)
Cost: Available with Registration
Level: Beginner
Duration: 3 months
Rating: N/A
Instructors: Bryan Bentley, Anton Tenitsky, and David Cunningham. All three of them are proficient in this field and have a long-standing experience behind them.
| Pros | Cons |
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Industry Application
This course is valuable for careers in film, gaming, and animation, teaching industry-standard 3D modeling techniques for creating characters, props, and environments.
Bottom Line
These classes by CG Spectrum comprise two terms. In Term 1, you will get an Intro to 3D Modeling Foundations. As part of Term 2 of the program, you will learn more about character & environment modeling. Hence, the versatility of the course is worthwhile.
5. 3D Modeling With Maya: How to Model 3D Weapons From Scratch! (Udemy)
Cost: $12.99
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Duration: 2h 19m
Rating: 4.1 based on 110 ratings
Creator – Animation Hacks. It is a visual effects institute that offers an array of top-quality training solutions that teach with studio-quality narrated videos backed with practical and hands-on examples and working files.
| Pros | Cons |
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Industry Application
This course is suited for careers in game development, visual effects, and animation, teaching essential techniques for creating professional-quality 3D weapons using Maya.
Bottom Line
It is a good selection for Maya users regardless of their levels. The class presents knowledge and skills in creating professional-quality assets in various 3D industries, including games, visual effects, and animation. But its shorter duration is my main pain point.
6. 4D Masterclass: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners (Udemy)
Level: Beginners
Cost: $13.99
Duration: 7h 45m
Rating: 4.5 based on 13,671 ratings
Instructor – Ozgur Gorgun is an Ace Udemy instructor with a rating of 4.5. He is an award-winning motion designer, photographer, and filmmaker. Ozgur has worked in the TV and film industries both in the UK and abroad, for about two decades.
| Pros | Cons |
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Industry Application
This course is ideal for careers in motion design and animation, providing essential skills in 3D modeling and animation using Cinema 4D.
Bottom Line
This class is suitable for beginners in 3D modeling and animation with Cinema 4D. Taught by an experienced person, the instruction quality is top-notch. While the areas covered are detailed, you will find many topics missing. However, the class will benefit you in enhancing your graphic skills and 2D motion design.
Some Free Online 3D Modeling Classes
During my research for the 3D modeling courses, I found some free ones with decent fundamental instruction.
Two such courses are:
- Getting Started With Blender and 3D Modeling [Alison]
- Introduction to 3D Modeling for Manufacturing [Autodesk]
Why Trust My Course Recommendations?
You can trust my recommendations because I took all the above-discussed 3D modeling training programs at some point in time.
I assessed the instructor’s expertise, and by immersing myself in the course content, I acquired first-hand information of their quality.
Rest assured, all the above-stated course recommendations are based on a comprehensive evaluation process, aiming to offer reliable guidance in picking the right course.
Let Me Help You Choose The Right Course
If you are confused about which class is suitable for you, here are some tips that can help:
- Determine your specific objectives and interests within the 3D modeling field.
- Read the syllabi and course description to ensure they cover the topics and techniques you wish to learn.
- Pick the best 3D modeling course in the format (video tutorials, interactive exercises) that aligns with your preferred learning style.
- Look for experienced instructors with a solid background.
- Read reviews to see what others think of this class.
- Check if the class offers ample support, bonus resources, and community forums to boost your learning experience.
- Evaluate the course duration, pricing, and whether it fits your budget and schedule.
Common Doubts About 3D Modeling:
How Long Does It Take To Learn 3D Modeling?
The time to learn 3D modeling depends on your prior experience, project complexity, and dedication. You can expect to get fundamental clarity in a few weeks. Then over the next few months, you can take projects and build on the knowledge.
What Is The Application of 3D Modeling?
3D modeling applications are widespread across different industries. It is employed in animation and film to create realistic environments and characters.
It is also used in gaming for designing levels and assets, engineering and architecture for visualizing structures, product design for prototyping, and in medical fields for creating anatomical models.
Furthermore, 3D modeling also finds use in augmented reality, virtual reality, and 3D printing, further expanding its usefulness and versatility. Given its massive use and popularity, it makes sense for design individuals to enroll in 3D modeling courses online to get adept at this domain.
Is 3D Modeling In Demand?
Yes, 3D modeling is in high demand in industries like film, gaming, architecture, and product design.
Is 3D Modeling Oversaturated?
Though competitive, it is not oversaturated. Talented and skilled 3D modelers with a solid portfolio and industry-relevant skills will find good opportunities in the market.
Can You Get A 3D Modeling Degree Online?
Yes. A quick search for 3D modeling classes near me will give you a list of colleges and universities for the same.
You can acquire a 3D modeling degree online via accredited institutions that offer distance learning programs in digital art, computer graphics, or related fields. These programs include courses in visual effects, animation training, and 3D modeling.
