Animation (with a study abroad year)

This rare BA degree in Animation is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and vocational experience needed to enter this dynamic and rapidly growing industry.

With access to high-tech facilities such as our six camera Motion Capture Studio, you’ll use innovative techniques and practices to create professional standard digital animations, and develop a strong foundation of knowledge in areas such as:

-Classical animation techniques

-Storytelling

-Still and moving image capture/manipulation

-Design, cinematography, modelling and animation

-Concept art

-Digital sculpting and compositing

-CGI lighting

This comprehensive programme is part of Screen Yorkshire’s prestigious Connected Campus initiative and carefully blends creativity and conceptual development with technical theory to produce talented multi-skilled graduates who are primed to embark on exciting and stimulating careers within the world of animation.

With opportunities to collaborate with partners in Qingdao (China), attend workshops and talks by award-winning professionals like James Butler (Animator, Peppa Pig), Iki Ikram (VFX Artist, Last of Us, Uncharted) and Ben Smith (Director, StarDog and TurboCat), as well as the chance to work on a bespoke studio project in your final year, you’ll develop into a competent and confident professional all set to enjoy a fulfilling career in animation.

Students studying Animation will develop practical skills in computer animation, motion capture, visual effects and CGI production. Working with visiting professionals you will be able to develop high level professional skills as well as useful contacts within the creative industries that can give your career a kick start. You will also learn how to read, decode and understand animation whilst developing a range of transferable skills in research, critical analysis, written communication and oral presentation as well as team working and leadership. Year One (Core) 3D Character Modelling and Animation Conventions of Animation Creative Industries - Foundation Creativity and Imagination Introduction to 3D Computer Modelling and Animation Observational Drawing Year Two 3D Character Creation (Core) Advanced Character Animation (Core) Classical Animation (Core) Script Programming and Technical Animation (Core) CGI Lighting, Rendering and Look Development (Option) Motion Capture (Option) VFX Compositing and Post Production (Option) Year Four (Core) Professional Industry Profile Studio Project: Pre-Production and Production

methods
Most modules use a mixture of formal lectures, practical lab sessions, tutorials and seminars. Some modules involve supervised group work, usually with an assigned academic staff member for each group. All modules require students to undertake independent study, supported through distance learning technologies such as our Virtual Learning Environment. Reading lists and suggested resources for independent study provide further direction for students to undertake this work, and regular contact hours and informal feedback throughout the courses provide opportunities for further guidance for learners. Assessments for modules mostly take the form of practical coursework, lab tests and written exams, with all forms being well represented throughout all years of the course across all modules.