Animation - BA(Hons)

During the course you are introduced to contemporary production processes and methods as well as fundamental principles of animation that may be applied within classical 2D and 3D, stop frame and computer (CG) animation. Film making, narrative and design for animation are central to the course.

There are Professional Practice and Work Experience modules at every level. Through these you will be introduced to and explore different career and further study options for Animation and the wider creative industries.

Year 1

This period of exploration and investigation provides you with an understanding of the principles of animation, in addition to the technical skills and knowledge that will enable you to further your creative development during Year two.

You will study the following compulsory modules:

• Introduction to Animation
• Exploring Practice in Animation
• Critical Perspectives
• Professional Practice and Work Experience 1

Year 2

You will develop the necessary skills for animation and film making, studying narrative structures, short form writing, cinematography, producing, production design, directing, sound design and production in small teams.

The Professional Practice and Work Experience module will consolidate your position as an emergent animator. In semester two you may choose to take an international exchange module.

You will study the following compulsory modules:

• Developing Collaborative Practice in Animation
• Creative Analysis
• Professional Practice and Work Experience 2

Plus one of the following optional modules:

• Developing Practice in Animation 2
• International Exchange

Final Year

During your final year you will undertake a major self-directed programme of study culminating in a final production piece. This not only reflects your own individual area or research but allows you to test ideas and concepts in a completely professional environment in preparation for production. Your final production is completed to industry standard and as part of your studies you will be expected to prepare your portfolio and show reel within a format that enables you to further exploit the work within a broader commercial context. There is also an opportunity to work in team on collaborative work with institutions such as the Royal Academy of Music.

You will study the following compulsory modules:

• Preparation for Extended Study in Animation
• Extended Study in Animation
• Independent Research Project
• Professional Practice and Work Experience 3

Please note this structure is for the full-time course delivery only. For part-time delivery, the same modules will be studied. However, the structure will differ.

The University continually enhances our offer by responding to feedback from our students and other stakeholders, ensuring the curriculum is kept up to date and our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for the real world. This may result in changes to the course. If changes to your course are approved, we will inform you.

Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical workshops, projects and tutorials. European and international visits and field studies are key experiences on offer within the school.

For more details see our full glossary of learning and teaching terms.

A variety of assessment methods are used throughout the course including practical visual presentations, essays, reports and group presentations. Assessments of practical work focus on the processes that you have used to develop your ideas as well as the final piece; you are expected to record and present your research and developmental work for this purpose.

Critical evaluations are also written to accompany major pieces of project work. In these you are expected to critique and analyse your own production work including your working methodologies, techniques and production management processes and relate them to the broader contexts of professional animation practice.

For more details see our full glossary of assessment terms.