Program Overview
The MA Animation degree at Leeds Arts University is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time program that empowers animators to create animated films, technical showreels, and other animation-related outcomes. The program emphasizes critical dialogue, individual and collaborative practice, exploration of emerging technologies, and cultural value, providing a strong foundation for success in the animation industry.
Program Outline
MA Animation Degree Overview:
Objective:
This one-year full-time or two-year part-time program empowers practitioners to create an animated film, technical showreel, or other animation-related outcomes from conception to completion. Participants engage in critical dialogue, seamlessly integrating practice, theory, and animation's professional aspects.
Program Description:
The MA Animation degree offers a platform for animators to produce culturally valuable work while exploring their practice across creative, commercial, and industry-based contexts. The curriculum fosters both individual and collaborative endeavors, though collaboration is strongly encouraged as it forms a cornerstone of the animation production process, enabling ambitious project undertakings. Participants delve deeper into understanding and knowledge surrounding animation practices, questioning the medium's potential and its communication with audiences. Additionally, they explore emerging technologies and innovative storytelling approaches, including VR and real-time technologies. The program provides access to a diverse team of researchers and practitioners within the animation field, alongside interactions with visiting industry professionals. Students benefit from collaborative opportunities with other creatives on the program and across different MA courses within the institution. The goal is to empower students to produce engaging work across all animation forms, from animated shorts to documentary and experimental practices.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Critical Dialogue: Integrate practice, theory, and the professional aspects of animation.
- Individual and Collaborative Practice: Develop both individual and collaborative skills, fostering ambitious projects through teamwork.
- Animation Understanding: Deepen understanding of animation practices and explore the medium's communication power.
- Emerging Technologies: Explore VR, real-time technologies, and other innovative storytelling approaches.
- Cultural Value: Produce work of cultural value with diverse applications.
- Industry Engagement: Interact with visiting industry professionals and collaborate with other creatives.
Structure:
- One year full-time or two years part-time
- Three teaching blocks per year
- Independent learning
- Variety of teaching methods: Individual supervision, group tutorials, live briefs, project proposals, and collaboration across postgraduate courses.
- Transdisciplinary core modules alongside specialist subject modules
- Research methods and business-related modules for all postgraduate students
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Individual supervision
- Group tutorials
- Live briefs
- Project proposals
- Collaboration across postgraduate courses
Faculty:
- Dr. Joe Sheehan - MA Animation Course Leader
- Other faculty members with diverse research and practical interests within the field of animation.
Unique Approaches:
- Emphasis on collaboration and teamwork
- Integration of theory and practice
- Exploration of emerging technologies and innovative storytelling approaches
Other:
- The postgraduate program culminates in a postgraduate show, showcasing students' work.
- The program encourages students to actively participate in industry opportunities and events.
- Students receive support from the university's Careers and Industry team in career development.
Conclusion:
The MA Animation degree at Leeds Arts University offers a comprehensive and engaging program for aspiring animators. Its focus on critical dialogue, individual and collaborative practice, exploration of emerging technologies, and cultural value provides a strong foundation for success in the animation industry.
Leeds Arts University
Overview:
Leeds Arts University is the only specialist arts university in the North of England, with award-winning facilities and expert tutors dedicated to the study of creative arts subjects. Students study in a close-knit, diverse and creative community and prepare for a successful career in the creative industries.
Founded in 1846 as the Leeds Government School of Art and Design, the university has contributed significantly to the development of arts education in Britain and across the world. Leeds Arts University invests heavily in its award-winning, industry-standard facilities, and in 2021, the University appointed acclaimed musician Skin to the role of Chancellor. Ten percent of our students are international, representing over 70 different nationalities globally.
Student Life:
Leeds is one of the UK's fastest-growing cities in the UK, with a safe and friendly feel. International students are warmly welcomed, bringing new ideas and wider perspectives into the vibrant student community.
The city has a thriving arts scene with major galleries e.g. The Henry Moore Institute and Leeds Arts Gallery existing alongside numerous independent creative spaces. In addition, there are several parks and green spaces including the beautiful Hyde Park and a thriving nightlife including many bars and cinemas.
Leeds is famous for its variety of shops and markets, from leading designer shops, the Grade I listed Kirkgate Market, the Corn Exchange which is full of independent brands, to the stunning Victorian arcades.
The University’s Students’ Union team works hard to ensure that every student gets the most from their time at Leeds Arts University. They host various events throughout the year making sure everyone has every opportunity to relax and have fun including activities, campaigns, events and fundraising, run our student magazine as well as supporting societies, sports teams and the Student Representatives.
Student Support:
The University supports students throughout their degree to maximise their chances of success after graduation. Opportunities are available to connect with industry, attend specialist workshops, access support for freelancers, and meet 1:1 with a careers consultant who has specialist knowledge of the creative industries.
Access to the Careers, Employability and Enterprise team is available for up five years following your graduation, with a range of activities and guidance to suit alumni including the Freelancer Summer School, alumni workshops, and 1-2-1 careers guidance. Alumni can also apply to the Creatives in Residence scheme on campus, or for a residency in a funded studio space.
The University’s support teams include Student Advice and Wellbeing and Academic Support. The Student Advice and Wellbeing team provides inclusive support to the diverse student community. They work directly with individuals to find the best support for you. Academic Support provides a hub of support for students with learning differences, conditions, and disabilities. Leeds Arts University has a diverse mix of creative students with a variety of learning styles and differences which enriches both our student population and the learning environment.
University Facilities:
Leeds Arts University prides itself on its state-of-the-art resources and libraries. All buildings have been designed and built for specialist arts education, whether this was the Vernon Street art school in 1903 or Blenheim Walk which was completed in January 2019.
There are dedicated course studios for specialist disciplines and open working areas for students across courses to meet up, work and socialise together.
Resources are equipped to industry standards and are run by highly skilled staff who contribute significantly to teaching. Resources have a drop-in facility so students can carry on working in their own time.
An 800m² extension of the Blenheim Walk building opened in September 2024, providing a roof-top garden, more studios, informal working spaces and café facilities, and a 24-hour student hub.
Course and Lecturers:
Leeds Arts University offers 19 undergraduate and seven postgraduate courses, all taught by tutors who are highly experienced in their disciplines. Many are still actively working within the creative industries, ensuring students can access the most up-to-date practice and excellent industry links. Students are further supported by professional instructors.
Students learn through a combination of theory and application of practical skills, using specialist equipment and facilities supervised by expert technicians. Live industry briefs are incorporated into course modules when possible to set students up for working in industry.
Leeds Arts University’s strong links mean industry speakers visit throughout the year to give guest lectures and talk to students.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Undergraduate degree: A good 2:1 honors degree in a relevant subject, such as animation, fine art, media, design, or a related discipline.
- Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your animation skills and creativity.
- Personal statement: A personal statement outlining your reasons for wanting to study on the MA Animation course.
- References: Two academic references.
- Interview: You may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.
International Overseas Students:
- Undergraduate degree: An equivalent qualification to a UK 2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject, such as animation, fine art, media, design, or a related discipline.
- English language proficiency: You must meet the University's English language requirements. This typically involves achieving a minimum score on an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing your animation skills and creativity.
- Personal statement: A personal statement outlining your reasons for wanting to study on the MA Animation course.
- References: Two academic references.
- Interview: You may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
The University's English language requirements for postgraduate courses are as follows:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any band.
- TOEFL: 90 overall, with no less than 20 in any band.
- PTE Academic: 62 overall, with no less than 50 in any band. Please note that these are just the minimum requirements. You may be required to achieve a higher score if your first language is not English.
Additional Information:
For more information on the entry requirements for the MA Animation course, please visit the Leeds Arts University website or contact the Admissions Office.
