MA Visual Communication: Illustration & Animation

Program Overview

This Illustration and Animation program fosters experimental visual storytelling and research skills. Students develop their artistic direction, engage in interdisciplinary projects, and prepare for professional practice through work experience and portfolio development. The program culminates in an independent major project showcasing practical, conceptual, and professional learning.

Program Outline

Outline:

• Study Block 1 / Autumn Term
• Visual Storytelling (40 credits): Promotes experimental approaches to visual storytelling, developing essential skills and core knowledges relevant to Illustration and Animation practices.
• Research Practice (20 credits): Develops advanced research skills, methods, and understanding of primary/secondary research and critical thinking.
• Study Block 2 / Spring Term
• Visual Practice (40 credits): Focuses on developing individual direction, engaging in interdisciplinary dialogues, and exploring live/industry projects.
• Creative Futures (20 credits): Strengthens position as an emerging Illustrator/Animator, exploring critical, technological, environmental, and ethical issues in contemporary practice, and preparing for work experience.
• Study Block 3 / Summer Term
• Independent Major Project: Focuses on the development and exhibition of an inquiry-based independent project, demonstrating practical, conceptual, and professional learning.
• Professional Contexts: Provides a dedicated context for developing a bespoke strategy for professional development, including work experience, mentorship, and portfolio preparation.

Teaching:

• Specialist tutor support available 5 days a week.
• Studio access 7 days a week, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm (Monday-Friday) and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (weekends).
• Taught through specialist workshops, guest lecturers, project briefings, regular 1:1 and group tutorials.
• Visiting lecturers bring expertise and perspectives from industry/academic contexts.
• Students encouraged to communicate creative intentions and critical understanding through contemporary methods.

Careers:

• Illustrator
• Animator
• Visual Communicator
• Artist
• Designer
• Lecturer
• PhD
• Previous students have worked at:
• Goblin Animation
• Esquire Magazine
• Vivienne Westwood
• Fashion Crossover
• Wyre
• Gorilla TV