BA (Hons) Model Design (Special Effects)

What will I study?

The course emphasises the importance of 3D making leading to physical artefacts created through structured research and design; well-prepared written and verbal presentations; and computer literacy.

Alongside elements of standard lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical workshops, you also learn through case studies, individual and group projects and other student centred activities.

You will experience a wide variety of teaching styles on the programme including:

• standard lectures
• practical workshops
• case studies
• individual and group projects

The Model Design Degree Programme uniquely, has a combined first year covering model making, prop making, sculpture and special effects. Second and third year students specialise in one of three-degree pathways: Model Design (Special Effects), Model Design (Character and Creative Effects), Model Design (Model Effects).

First Year

You will be introduced to current materials, techniques and design processes in a combined first year (all three degree disciplines) and gain a strong grounding in workshop machinery and practices, which are relevant to the whole programme.

Second Year

You will acquire an understanding of special effects design and receive a thorough grounding in the practical aspects of this. You will be able to combine your artistic and technical skills to produce animatronics, action props, models and special effects. You will also gain ‘hands on’ experience of special effects equipment used to produce, rain, fire, smoke, wind and snow etc. and learn about the safe use of pyrotechnics.

All of our second year students have the option to undertake a professional work experience module with one of our many high profile industry contacts.

Final Year

Your final year is designed to prepare you for entry to the industry as a highly employable graduate. You will make a variety of project outcomes that demonstrate your professional ability and you will also spend time producing a professional portfolio and self-promotional material designed to impress potential employers at your first interview and beyond.

Level 4

Module

• Scale and Structure
• Shape and Form
• Design and Fabrication
• The Model in Mind: histories, contexts, theories (C&CS)

Level 5

Module

• Turbo Projects
• Design Process and Realisation
• Special Effects Contextualised Model
• Talking Models: the theory of practice (C&CS)
• Professional Work Experience 30: Screen
• Professional Work Experience 45: Screen
• Professional Work Experience 15: Screen
• Professional Work Experience 15 5B: Screen

Level 6

Module

• Year Abroad
• Professional Context Model
• Professional Practice
• Special Effects Major Project Proposal
• Special Effects Major Project
• Critical and Cultural Studies: L6 Enquiry / Report / Essay (Model Design)
• Sandwich Year (Creative Arts)