Character animation is an important and specialized area of the animation process concerning the animation of one or more characters featured in an animated production. It is artistically and technically unique from other animation in that it involves the creation of apparent thought and emotion in addition to physical action. This course aims at providing specialized lectures and training in both the “know-why” and the “know-how” of researching, designing, animating and rigging virtual characters using Maya 3D technologies. Students will learn how to use appropriate techniques to portray character personality, create fluid body motion and organic movement, staging gesture, weight, thought, action & reaction, lips-sync, and acting with an emphasis on character building and storytelling. Besides, students will discover the technical aspect and process of character rig mechanics for non-human and realistic biped virtual character.