| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-19 | - |
| 2024-01-09 | 2023-11-04 |
Program Overview
De Montfort University's Animation BA (Hons) program equips students with creative thinking, storytelling, and animation skills. Through a comprehensive curriculum covering drawing, 2D/3D animation, and pre/post-production, students develop their unique style and prepare for careers in the growing animation industry. Graduates have contributed to major films and work with international companies, showcasing the program's excellence in preparing students for professional success.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Animation BA (Hons)
at De Montfort University is a three-year full-time (four years with placement) program designed to prepare students for a career in the growing animation industry. The program emphasizes creative thinking, storytelling, and illustrative animation skills, providing students with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of animation and the opportunity to develop specialized skills in their second year.
Objectives:
- Develop students' creative style and voice.
- Enhance technical and creative knowledge through focused modules.
- Equip students with industry-standard tools and software.
- Prepare students for a future in the animation industry.
Program Description:
The program provides a comprehensive and intensive learning experience, covering various aspects of animation, including:
- Drawing skills: Students have access to the Leicester Media School Drawing Centre, where they can receive individual support and improve their drawing skills.
- 2D and 3D animation: Students learn and practice both traditional and digital animation techniques using industry-standard software.
- Storytelling and scriptwriting: Students develop their storytelling skills and learn how to effectively communicate their ideas through animation.
- Pre-production and post-production: Students gain experience in all stages of animation production, from concept development to final editing.
- Professional development: Students benefit from a supportive studio culture and industry mentors, preparing them for a professional career.
Outline:
Year One:
- Block 1: Introductory Sessions - Introduction to the animation industry, basic principles of animation, and software training.
- Block 2: Animation Principles - In-depth exploration of animation principles, including timing, spacing, and secondary action.
- Block 3: Visual Thinking and Communication - Developing visual literacy, storyboarding, and character design.
- Block 4: Project 1 - Creating a short animation project, applying the skills learned in the first three blocks.
Year Two:
- Block 1: Advanced Animation - Refining animation techniques, focusing on specific areas of interest (e.g., character animation, special effects).
- Block 2: Animated Communication - Exploring different animation styles and techniques for various communication purposes.
- Block 3: Project Development - Developing a concept for a major animation project, including storyboarding, character design, and animatics.
- Block 4: Project 2 - Creating a more complex animation project, incorporating feedback and refining skills.
Year Three:
- Block 1: Pre-production 1 - Planning and preparation for the final animation project, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
- Block 2: Pre-production 2 - Finalizing the script, storyboards, and character designs for the final project.
- Block 3: Animation Production - Producing the final animation project, utilizing all acquired skills and knowledge.
- Block 4: Post-production - Editing, sound design, and finalizing the animation project for presentation.
Modules:
- Each block focuses on a specific module, providing in-depth knowledge and practical application of the covered topic.
Assessment:
- Regular screenings of artwork and reports for peer, tutor, and industry critique.
- Production of a festival-ready animation and a showreel for employment.
- Guidance from industry experts and teaching teams on developing professional-quality work.
- A combination of lectures, practical workshops, and individual tutorials.
- Hands-on experience with drawing, idea generation, pre-production, and digital 2D animation development.
- Regular feedback and guidance for continuous improvement.
Careers:
- Graduates pursue careers as animators, producers, VFX technical directors, lead technical runners, compositors, modellers, and designers.
- Alumni work with international companies like Double Negative, Ubisoft, Jagex, MPC, The Mill, Blue Zoo, Character Shop, RJDM Animations, and Ragdoll Productions.
- Graduates have contributed to major films like 'Batman: The Dark Knight Rises', 'Les Miserables', 'Superman Man of Steel', 'Thor: The Dark World', 'Ex Machina', 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire', and 'Total Recall'.
- DMU Global program provides opportunities for international experience and career development.
Other:
- Facilities: Access to industry-standard animation studios, recording and sound studios, life room, computer suites with Cintiq stations, and the Kimberlin Library with extensive learning resources.
- Support: Dedicated careers service, placement opportunities, and support for students with disabilities and specific learning differences.
- DMU Global: International experience program with overseas, on-campus, and online opportunities, including study and work abroad programs.
UK
EU/International Institution code: D26 UCAS course code: W615 Duration: Three years full-time, four years with placement Fees and funding: 2024/25 tuition fees for UK students: £9,250 How to apply Institution code: D26 UCAS course code: W615 Duration: Three years full-time, four years with placement Fees and funding: 2024/25 tuition fees for international students: £16,250 Find out more about available funding for international students. How to apply Application guidance document Submit a study-related enquiry
