Academic IELTS of 6.5 overall with no element below 6
A 2:2 or above honours degree or equivalent qualification in animation or a related subject which includes significant 3D computer graphic content, such as moving image, illustration, 3D design, computer-related design or architecture.
All applicants must, if requested, be able to demonstrate either through qualifications, work experience or portfolio of works, a solid understanding of digital media.
Exceptionally applicants may have no first degree but more than five years working in the field. In this case, there must be strong evidence that the applicant has the motivation to complete the course and the ability to work at this level. Experience in digital media, post production and animation is particularly valuable.
The Computer Animation postgraduate degree equips you with the creative skills and technical knowledge needed for jobs in the CGI, games, and VFX industries.
With an emphasis on industry-relevant workflows, our project-based curriculum is designed to teach you specialist skillsets in the 3D production pipeline. Underpinned by core concepts and visual narrative, these specialisms include:
3D character animation
Organic and hard-surface modelling
Digital sculpting
Shading and texturing
Lighting and rendering
Compositing
Character rigging
Throughout the course you will build a showreel for your professional portfolio. It is one of a suite of digital media courses that immerses students in a studio environment to work as part of an interdisciplinary team from across the full programme.
Equally importantly, our assessments and tutor feedback will help you develop the following employability skills:
Analysis, observation, and self-critique
Communication of concepts and techniques
Project-planning and time-management
Research and problem-solving
Interpretation and implementation of feedback
Teamwork and collaboration.
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What you will study
3D animation: you will learn the principles of animation, body mechanics, and character performance, scene setup, and performance. You will study the fundamental ideas of creating believable and appealing animation. You will participate in motion capture sessions with our new Rokoko Mocap kit and progress with formative animation exercises to connect concept and practical application via Autodesk Maya software.
Digital sculpting and 3D modelling: You will explore a range of concepts, techniques, and tools for creating organic, hard-surface models and sculpts. These disciplines will be informed by underlying design concepts, as well as by reference collection, and an appreciation of anatomy and visual narrative.
UV mapping, shading and texturing: You will learn the inner workings of producing complex shading networks and creating photo-real surfaces with multi-layered, PBR practices.
Character rigging: You will bring your character model to life with the technical skillsets and tools of 3D rigging.
Lighting and rendering: You will capture your 3D creations in the best light by applying cinematic lighting approaches to your CGI scenes to help to convey story and mood. You will learn the tricks of the trade to balancing render speed and quality for producing eye-catching renders.
Compositing: You will be able to seamlessly integrate your CGI assets into live action footage, and maximise post-production flexibility, by learning 2D and 3D match-moving, colour grading, advanced rendering techniques and other post-production methods.
You will also work as part of a team, comprising students from different media disciplines, undertaking simulated project briefs that have previously included augmented reality children's books, driverless car interfaces, virtual fashion shows, and interactive transparent displays for museum exhibitions. You will learn how to present yourself to potential employers through your professional presence and portfolio.
Please note: this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list. Those listed here may also be a mixture of core and optional modules.
For a student to go on placement they are required to pass every module first time with no reassessments. It is the responsibility of individual students to find a suitable paid placement. Students will be supported by our dedicated placement team in securing this opportunity.
Core modules
Digital Studio Practice
Character Animation for Film and Games
Digital Media Final Project
3D Creation Pipeline for Film and Games
Perfecting the Look
Professional Placement
The technical and creative skills provided by this Computer Animation course are applicable in areas related mainly to the movie and games industry. Furthermore, advertisement, 3D printing, architectural design and web-based modelling are areas that require skills and knowledge on modelling, texturing, rigging, animation, and compositing. Graduates have go on to work at Industrial Light and Magic, Kuato Studios, AccuCities.
Insurance - Single: 300 (£) per year
