Curriculum

Special FX 101 teaches the actual nuts and bolts of physical, environmental and mechanical special effects.

Students will receive over 40 hours of instruction comprised of 19 major facets of the FX industry. These areas of study will include but are not limited to:

Fireworks Class C/1.4G Class B/1.3G Anatomy of pyrotechnic devices	Electronics AC/DC Circuits Meters Mathematics PLC
Film Pyrotechnics Squibs Gas bombs Propane poppers Sand canons Trunion guns	Fire FX Flammable gases Fire bars and burners Ignition Regulators
Rain FX Rain towers Pumps Water sources Rain grids	Breakaways Glass Wood Steel
Indoor Pyrotechnics Types of indoor pyrotechnic devices NFPA Control Venues	Laws and Licensing BATF&E (Bureau Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives) NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) State Licensing AHJ (Authorities Having Jurisdiction)
Air/Debris Mortars Accumulator tanks Valves Different types of debris	Special FX for Permanent Installations Theme parks & attractions Permanent installations vs. temporary/one off shows
Rigging Hardware Knots Harnesses Pulleys Physics	Fog & Smoke Glycol fog Cryogenics “Tube of Death”
Plumbing Fittings Flaring Tubing Plumbing materials	Business Seminar Networking Navigating the business Unions Continuing education

Learn the secrets of Hollywood special effects from working professionals who will not only instruct you but also teach you how to get work and find your place in the entertainment industry.