Best Motion Graphics Certificates Baltimore, MD: Find Courses & Onsite Training

Learn More About Baltimore Motion Graphics Certificates

Motion graphics are likely involved if you have ever seen a captivating advertisement or a hilarious meme on your social media feed. Motion graphics are a combination of text and design elements set to motion. The motion tends to be in shorter pieces, so it is not quite a full-length movie but has enough time to capture an audience's attention, like an advertisement. Motion graphics have been around since the early days of film, which started to take off post-World War II.

Motion graphics are still valuable in movies and TV shows in the digital age. You might recognize them more on social media or while binging your favorite TV miniseries. Many popular programs like Adobe are used to create motion graphics, which fortunately makes this an accessible skill to learn. Teaching yourself the basics can be relatively easy if you want to take on motion graphics as a hobby. If you want to make a career out of motion graphics, numerous courses are available to help take your skills to the next level and ensure success.

Why Become Certified in Motion Graphics?

Motion graphics is a skill that can be self-taught. You can find videos online, and playing around with some of the tools can equip you with the skills needed to make this a great hobby. While it is accessible to you for free, there is value in taking professional courses to add to your self-taught skills. A motion graphics certification can give you professional training to appeal to future employers. Simply listing the motion graphics certification on your resume can help you stand out to companies, solidify your skills, and highlight your dedication to your craft and career.

Additionally, the skills you learn in the various courses can be applied to positions outside motion graphics design. Attending a certification course is also an excellent opportunity to connect with other creative minds. You can use the classroom setting, either in-person or virtual, to network with others. Certifications can provide you with the training needed to be successful and foster the connections to meet others interested in motion graphics and its various elements.

What You’ll Learn While Becoming Motion Graphics Certified

A motion graphics certification will provide you with a lot of knowledge. Students can expect to gain great insight into the industry and the essential tools necessary in other related sectors. Students can expect to learn about programs like Adobe Photoshop and After Effects and even create 3D and 4D animations. Programs might add additional learning objectives to their course curriculum, but there are some core concepts all students should expect to learn.

Editing

Putting together your ideas is essential to motion graphics; this is where the importance of video editing comes into play. Students need to learn how their edits can impact the quality of their videos. Realizing the impact and effects of editing video footage when creating videos is essential.

Creating Visual Effects

A large part of creating intriguing videos is the visual effects. Students learn to use programs like After Effects, remove green screens, and replace backgrounds. Students can even expect to learn about 3D models, which all play a pivotal role in the quality of your content.

Motion Graphics Concepts

Understanding the basic concepts of motion graphics might seem remedial to some, but it is a great way to expand your knowledge. In most courses, students will learn about history, understanding concepts, and the why behind how things are done. This additional knowledge can help you gain insight into the industry and a greater appreciation for motion graphics.

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop is one of the most widely used programs in most industries. It is excellent to learn independently, but it also plays a vital role in motion graphics. Photoshop can help enhance the images used in print and the videos used for content.

Creative Eye

A stellar creative eye might be what got you interested in motion graphics. For some people, it is innate; for others, it can be developed. Whether it comes naturally to you or not, taking more courses and practicing your skills can help enhance your creative eye and strengthen your talents.

Motion Graphics Industries in Baltimore

Baltimore is known for its landscape, skyline, and culture. Baltimore has a lot of history, including being the home of the Star Spangled Banner. Not only is it a great tourist spot, but Baltimore is also home to many industries. Thanks to their beautiful views and culture, there are excellent career opportunities in tourism, creative services, health and bioscience technology, and advanced manufacturing. Baltimore is also home to thriving retail, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. One of the great things about motion graphics is that it is helpful in just about any industry.

Motion graphics courses such as video editing require knowledge of programs like Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Cinema 4D Lite, which are all useful in various industries. Editing videos can be used in retail and manufacturing to help advertise new products or services a major corporation such as Under Armour or Amazon provides. Both companies have headquarters in Baltimore and are more prominent and growing. An adequately edited video can also highlight local events at popular tourist locations around the city. Those videos can be used on social media sites for local businesses or on local news sites' pages to help promote events.

Baltimore is home to top medical facilities such as Johns Hopkins Hospital, Mercy Health Services, and Kennedy Krieger Institute. Short films can be beneficial in medical institutions to help educate not only patients but also other health professionals. Someone with motion graphics experience can help create educational videos about procedures in ways patients can easily understand and grasp. It can also be used to increase employee engagement. The skills learned in a certificate program like motion graphics can be applied in traditional and nontraditional ways, allowing you to make your education work for you.

Motion Graphics Careers in Baltimore

Baltimore has numerous opportunities available in motion graphics or related industries in film and media. While a Motion Graphics Designer might be the first thought that comes to mind when considering a career in motion graphics, you could also consider looking into a career as a 3D Animator. If you have ever been to Walt Disney World, you've probably experienced what many consider a magical world; much of that is thanks to 3D animation. 3D Animators work on movies, games, social media, and amusement parks. They turn three-dimensional images and animations into a realistic experience by adding human movement and rich animation. 3D Animators have various options regarding where they can find employment. Even though Disney World is not in Baltimore, there are opportunities in media, games, and even movies. Some critical skills to possess when considering this as a career path include your ability to effectively communicate, manage deadlines, stay on budget, maintain your creativity, and stay up-to-date on the skills you learned in your certificate programs. While a degree is not needed for most positions, some employers may require it. It is essential to have experience and a polished demo reel to effectively display your work. An Animator's salary in Baltimore can range from $55,000 to $78,000, averaging around $65,000.

Are you looking for something else? Consider a job as a Video Editor, too. Video Editors can work for films, TV shows, media companies, freelance, or even influencers; the workload and hours can vary, giving editors some freedom in their positions. While a motion graphics course will teach you the skills needed in video editing such as using programs like After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Final Cut, you also want to be skilled in working in fast-paced environments, being detail-oriented, and collaborating with others. The average Video Editor in the United States makes about $52,000, but in Baltimore, the pay ranges from $56,000 to $70,500, with a median of $63,000. The pay is above the national average. All pay ranges vary depending on experience, education, and additional skills.

Should You Pursue a Certificate or Certification

Quite a few options are available when considering how you want to improve your motion graphics skills. Some take an official course or a group of classes. Taking one course can get you a certificate, while taking several could put you on the path to getting a certification. Some tend to think they are the same thing, but the two have some distinct differences. Certificates confirm that you completed a specific course. It is an excellent way to show others you know about a particular subject matter. Certification involves completing specific requirements or training, typically followed by an exam.

Certifications are needed if you want to become an expert in a field. They are recognized by employers with prestige and come with the assumption that you are knowledgeable in your certified topic or area. If you have yet to reach that level or are unsure if you would like to achieve that depth of knowledge, you can opt for a certificate. Certificates are ideal for beginners or those learning about a newer industry. While neither certifications nor certificates are associated with a degree, they have their value. Baltimore has many options available for certificate programs related to the motion graphics industry. These courses are available online or in-person to tailor to your needs and help you gain new skills.

Top Motion Graphics Certificate Programs in Baltimore

Finding a motion graphics program in Baltimore is relatively easy. Many program options, either online or in-person, are aimed at providing professionals with the skills needed to succeed in a motion graphics career or related industry. Below are a few examples of programs in the Baltimore area that can set professionals up for success while allowing them to explore other new concepts.

Noble Desktop — Video Editing & Motion Graphics Certificate

If you are looking for a motion graphics certificate program and prefer a virtual option, Noble Desktop has the program you need. Noble Desktop is highly rated and New York-based but offers virtual courses too. Providing virtual course options in addition to in-person gives more students access to some of their top programs. Noble Desktop offers hands-on classes taught by experts with experience in the field. One of their highly sought-after programs includes their Video Editing & Motion Graphics Certificate.

This program is excellent for individuals looking to start a career as a Video Editor, Motion Graphics Designer, or Animator. Students considering this course should have a basic knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, but it is not required. Once registered, students can expect to learn how to edit videos using Adobe Premiere Pro, edit audio with Adobe Audition, and create motion graphics with After Effects and Cinema 4D Lite. Students will also build a demo reel to showcase their skills to prospective clients. The course costs $4,995 and is either two months full-time or four months part-time. Tuition includes course material, one-on-one mentoring, and setup assistance before courses start.

Noble Desktop — Video Editing Certificate

A video editing certificate is an option for someone pursuing a motion graphics career in Baltimore. As previously mentioned, some careers need a professional who can effectively edit videos in a way that tells a story. Students can expect to become skilled Video Editors with a video editing certificate. Video and audio editing can also be the foundation of motion graphics and animation, opening the door for other potential careers or increased interest in pursuing further certification in motion graphics.

The Noble Desktop Video Editing program costs $2,995 and is offered live online for Baltimore residents. The course can either be full-time for two months or part-time for four months. Students can expect to learn video editing principles and concepts, best practices, how to create and edit videos with Adobe Premiere Pro, and how to create videos to build their portfolio. Students also receive a 1-on-1 mentoring session to help them connect with a mentor to review their portfolio, improve their resume and LinkedIn profile, and ensure they are on track with their learning goals for the program.

Think BIG. Learn Smart — Adobe After Effects CC Bootcamp

Adobe After Effects is a popular program used in post-production for video, film, and TV production. Think BIG Learn Smart offers online live training that teaches professionals the basics of After Effects and dives into the program’s advanced and more complex features. Pricing for the course is $1,590 and includes a digital curriculum, remote access to the Think BIG class computer with software licenses and pre-installed class files, IT support to help with setup before and during training, and a certificate of completion.

Students can expect to learn critical tools needed to be successful in Adobe After Effects and start working on projects with layers, keyframes, and texts. The course also includes:

An online test prep tool.
The testing proctor fee.
An exam voucher with one free retake.

The course has no prerequisites, but students should have a good working knowledge of computers, operating systems, and navigating folders. Students can take the course from anywhere or use the computer lab at the Maryland Think BIG Learn Smart location.

NextGen Bootcamp — Video Editing & Animation Certificate

NextGen Bootcamp has been around since 2016. Starting as an 8-week summer coding bootcamp in New Jersey, they now offer various notable courses for students looking to expand their knowledge in coding and design. They offer courses both online and in-person at their New York location. They provide a Video Editing and Animation Certificate course for students interested in learning how to edit videos, organize media in a timeline, and color-correct videos. This course is excellent for those who want to start a YouTube channel, are considering a career in the film industry, or are just curious about video editing.

The bootcamp is a comprehensive summer program with 42 hours of learning, taught as full days over two weeks in August. It costs $2,495, payable upfront before the program starts. The intensive course covers various topics that will make students feel like experts upon leaving. Students do not need prior knowledge or experience to register for this course. Industry experts teach the course in small-group settings, and students receive a digital certificate of completion.

Montgomery College — Digital Animation Degree, Associate of Applied Science

Montgomery College has various locations and online learning options in Montgomery County, Maryland. Ninety-seven percent of first-year students would recommend Montgomery College to friends and family. It is affordable and welcoming, offering small student-to-faculty ratios and flexible classes. Tuition rates vary depending on where you live and the number of credit hours you take. Montgomery College provides various academic programs, majors, and degrees.

For example, they offer a program with courses designed to provide students with the skills needed for junior or entry-level employment in the animation industry. Students can expect to learn basic knowledge of digital art and animation history, visual problem-solving, the elements and principles of design within digital graphic images, and how to develop a script and prepare a storyboard for 2D and 3D animation. It is a four-semester program, with the first 24 credits completed being foundational courses in English and Math. After completing foundational courses, students can expect to dive into more animation-focused courses.

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Key Insights

Learn More About Baltimore Motion Graphics Certificates

Why Become Certified in Motion Graphics?

What You’ll Learn While Becoming Motion Graphics Certified

Editing

Creating Visual Effects

Motion Graphics Concepts

Adobe Photoshop

Creative Eye

Motion Graphics Industries in Baltimore

Motion Graphics Careers in Baltimore

Should You Pursue a Certificate or Certification

Top Motion Graphics Certificate Programs in Baltimore

Think BIG. Learn Smart — Adobe After Effects CC Bootcamp

Montgomery College — Digital Animation Degree, Associate of Applied Science

Baltimore Motion Graphics Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

Motion Graphics Training Locations in or Near Baltimore

Baltimore Careers & Salaries Related to Motion Graphics

Related Classes

Baltimore Motion Graphics
Corporate & Onsite Training