BA(Hons) Animation

Overview

In the first year of study, students are introduced to the creative, theoretical, and technical foundations of animation. They explore a range of key concepts that underpin the discipline, including drawing, design principles, visual communication, storytelling, and the development of both linear and non-linear narratives. Emphasis is placed on understanding the history and evolution of animation, its relationship with wider visual cultures, and its role within contemporary creative industries.

Students begin to engage with industry-standard tools and software, developing core technical competencies in 2D and 3D production processes. Through practical exercises, workshops, and short projects, they acquire the fundamental skills necessary to bring ideas to life — from character design and storyboarding to motion and timing.

Collaboration and teamwork are introduced as essential aspects of professional practice, allowing students to learn how to communicate ideas effectively, contribute to group projects, and reflect critically on their creative outcomes. Alongside this, independent thinking, research, and critical analysis are encouraged through contextual and theoretical studies that help students situate their work within a broader cultural and historical framework.

By the end of the first year, students will have developed a solid understanding of the creative process, gained confidence in using digital tools, and established the conceptual, practical, and analytical foundations necessary for further study in animation and related creative disciplines.

Overview

In the second year of study, students build upon the creative, technical, and theoretical foundations established in Year 1, moving towards a more advanced and specialised understanding of animation practice. The focus is on developing depth, sophistication, and independence in both creative thinking and technical execution.

Students expand their knowledge of character animation, exploring the principles of performance, movement, and expression through both 2D and 3D methods. Emphasis is placed on the refinement of design, modelling, and sculpting techniques, enabling students to create believable characters and creatures suited for animation, visual effects, and games. Through practical experimentation and critical evaluation, they learn to make informed design decisions grounded in research, anatomy, and visual literacy.

Alongside creative practice, students engage with critical and contextual studies that deepen their understanding of animation as an academic and cultural discipline. They examine how animation practices are discussed theoretically and professionally, gaining insight into current debates, ethical considerations, and industry challenges. This prepares them for the intellectual demands of their final-year dissertation or major written project.

Studio-based work continues to play a central role, encouraging students to prototype, test, and refine their designs for a variety of creative platforms — including film, games, VFX, and virtual production. Collaboration, reflection, and documentation are integral parts of the process, ensuring students develop strong communication and project management skills relevant to professional practice.

By the end of the second year, students will have strengthened their technical expertise, enhan

Overview

In the final year of study, students consolidate the creative, technical, and theoretical skills developed throughout the programme, demonstrating their ability to operate as independent and reflective practitioners. The emphasis is on professional preparation, advanced research, and the realisation of an ambitious self-directed major project that reflects the student’s personal strengths and career aspirations.

Students undertake a substantial piece of research through the Animation Dissertation or Industry Report, which enables them to explore an area of special interest within the discipline. The dissertation encourages analytical and critical engagement with animation theory, history, and practice, while the industry report focuses on professional standards and practices within the sector, requiring students to situate their own work in relation to current or emerging industry contexts. Both options foster intellectual independence, academic confidence, and self-directed inquiry.

Through Creative Futures, students develop the professional skills necessary to promote themselves effectively in the highly competitive animation industry. The module supports self-branding and portfolio development using both traditional and digital platforms, helping students to establish a professional identity and communicate their creative practice to potential employers and collaborators.

The Major Project represents the culmination of the programme and provides students with the opportunity to produce a significant body of original work. Conducted over two semesters, this project encourages ambition, innovation, and experimentation while mirroring the structure and expectations of professional practice. It enables students to demonstrate mastery of their chosen area, integrate conceptual and technical skills, and produce a portfolio that showcases their creative and professional readiness for employment or postgraduate study.

By the end of the final year, students will have developed into confident, adaptable, and forward-thinking practitioners, capable of contributing creatively and strategically to the ever-evolving global animation industry.