Visual Effects Technical Direction BSc (Hons)
Program Overview
Visual Effects Technical Direction (TD) is a specialist with the critical and creative acumen to solve digital workflow and production pipeline challenges using procedural animation and scripting to create effects and make digital tools for artists. TDs exist in multiple areas of production, supporting lighting, pipeline, effects, dynamics, and animation with their technical problem-solving skills. This course will advance your technical problem-solving skills preparing you for your career as a visual effects TD with 100% coursework.
Program Outline
Unlike computing courses elsewhere, at Edinburgh Napier you will be taught by world leading scientists in specialist facilities which contain high-speed computers with all essential software. Want to get more from your studies? You can opt for a placement year to gain valuable hands-on experience working with a company of your choice.
Outline:
Course Details:
This course will allow you to develop a critical understanding of the analysis, design, development, testing, evaluation and modification of reliable, maintainable and quality software including mobile and large scale enterprise systems. In addition, you will develop a critical understanding of the gathering, storage, retrieval and analysis of information in a variety of contexts and develop a broad knowledge of a range of theoretical and methodological approaches to the design of effective interactive systems. You will develop a critical understanding of the human, social, organisational, economic, legal and technological factors which affect, and are affected by computer-based systems.
How you’ll be taught:
Lectures and tutorials.
Assessments:
Mixture of practical assessments, development reports, academic essays and exams.
Work Placement:
A year long Work Based Learning module is available for this programme which can be undertaken in 3rd year which consists of 60 credits. In 2nd year, students attend timetabled Placement Preparation sessions which provides comprehensive information about sourcing a placement, tips for enhancing CVs, cover letters and interview preparation. A Student Futures Placement Coordinator is available to support students with their placement applications and approving placements as part of the course. Whilst on placement, students undertake work-related assessments alongside gaining valuable work experience. If this option is chosen, the course duration will be extended by one trimester. If students are not undertaking the yearlong placement, then there is a Group Project or the Professional Internship Module in Year 3 (one trimester) which gives students the opportunity to complete a project for an external client. Find out more about Computing Placements here.
Study Abroad:
International study is available, and is intended to develop overall graduate attributes and global citizenship. The School has several agreements with overseas partner institutions, both in the EU and further afield, providing varied and exciting opportunities tailored around your individual study and cultural interests. Currently, links are established with universities in the USA, Canada, Spain, Denmark, Singapore, and Germany, where programmes are delivered in English, whilst additional links are planned with other European countries and Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Popular Modules:
Year 1:
- Foundations of Software Design and Development
- Computer Systems
- Information Systems in Organisations
- Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
- Mathematics for Software Engineering
- Programming Fundamentals
Year 2:
- Object Oriented Software Development
- Systems and Services
- Database Systems
- Software Engineering Methods
- Web Technologies
- Mobile Applications Development
- Computer Graphics
- Algorithms and Data Structures
Year 3:
- Summer Internship (elective)
- Data Analytics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Advanced Web Technologies
- Computing in Contemporary Society
- Group Project
- Advanced Database Systems
- Fundamentals of Parallel Systems
- Professional Practice
Year 4:
- Honours Project
- Software Architecture
- Multi-agent Systems
- Computational Intelligence
- Starting a New Business
- Secure Software Development
- Formal Approaches to Software Engineering
Disclaimer:
Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.
Careers:
What can you do with a BEng/BEng (Hons) Computing degree? In this dynamic BEng/BEng (Hons) Computing programme, you will explore the endless possibilities of computer science, from algorithm design to artificial intelligence. You will get an amazing opportunity to dive into the realms of coding, software development, database systems etc as you unlock the secrets of this ever-evolving field. This course may lead you into the following career paths:
- Computer software Engineer
- Software Designer
- Software Developer
- Data Analyst
- In-house Web Design
- Network Manager
- Mobile App Developer You will gain a comprehensive understanding of computer science theory and hone your practical skills through hands-on projects and internships. From building innovative software applications to optimizing complex algorithms, you'll develop the expertise needed to thrive in today's digital landscape. Upon graduation, you will emerge as a versatile and adaptable professional, ready to make your mark in a variety of industries. Whether you dream of developing cutting-edge software, creating groundbreaking AI solutions, or leading technological innovation, this course will empower you to turn your aspirations into reality. What does a Software Developer do? You will be collaborating with diverse teams of fellow developers, designers, and stakeholders to bring ideas from concept to reality. Your days will be filled with coding, testing, and refining software solutions to address real-world challenges across industries. From mobile apps that streamline daily tasks to enterprise software that drives business operations, your work will enhance efficiency, improve user experiences, and propel organizations toward success. As a Software Developer, you will constantly push the boundaries of what's possible, staying abreast of the latest technologies and methodologies to stay ahead in this dynamic field.
Tuition fees for 2024/25 Students from 2024/25 2025/26 Scotland £1,820 £tba England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland £9,250 £tba Overseas and EU £19,340 £tba Students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland will be invoiced the tuition fees for 3 years of their 4 years of study. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here. Please note that the tuition fees liable to be paid by EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be the Overseas fee rate. The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries. More information on these can be found here. View Tuition Fees for 2025/26
Nottingham Trent University
Overview:
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) is a public university located in Nottingham, England. It is known for its strong focus on employability, student experience, and research. NTU has been recognized as "University of the Year" five times and is ranked first in the UK for employability by Uni Compare.
Services Offered:
NTU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Employability and Careers:
NTU has a strong focus on employability, with a Graduate Promise program and worldwide work placements.Accommodation:
NTU provides a variety of accommodation options for students, including on-campus and off-campus housing.Library:
NTU has a modern and well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.StudentHub:
A platform for students to access information and services, including academic support, wellbeing resources, and student events.NOW:
A platform for students to access online learning resources and support.Student Life and Campus Experience:
NTU offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with a range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
NTU has a strong sports program and is ranked in the top ten universities for sport in the UK.Arts and Culture:
NTU has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a dedicated arts center and numerous events throughout the year.Student Societies:
NTU has a wide range of student societies and clubs, catering to various interests.Campus Events:
NTU hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including open days, lectures, and performances.Key Reasons to Study There:
Excellent Employability:
NTU is ranked first in the UK for employability, with a strong focus on preparing students for the workforce.Outstanding Student Experience:
NTU provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved.High-Quality Research:
NTU is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on innovation and impact.Award-Winning University:
NTU has been recognized with numerous awards, including "University of the Year" five times.Academic Programs:
NTU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Business and Management:
NTU is known for its strong business school, offering programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.Art and Design:
NTU has a renowned art and design school, offering programs in areas such as fashion, graphic design, and photography.Science and Technology:
NTU offers programs in areas such as computer science, engineering, and life sciences.Law:
NTU has a strong law school, offering programs in areas such as criminal law, commercial law, and human rights law.Other:
NTU is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the second most sustainable university in the world by the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. NTU also has a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity, with a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
Entry Requirements:
- UK Students:
- Standard Offer: 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications.
- Contextual Offer: 104 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications.
- Contextual Offers: A lower offer may be made based on a range of factors, including background, experiences, and individual circumstances.
- Other Qualifications and Experience: Credits achieved at other universities and work/life experience may be considered through an assessment of prior learning.
- International Students:
- BSc (Hons) Visual Effects Technical Direction: 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications.
- International Qualifications: Qualifications from all over the world are accepted.
- Undergraduate Preparation Courses (Foundation): Foundation courses are offered through Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC) for students who don't meet entry requirements.
- Accepted Tests: IELTS, TOEFL, and others.
- Pre-Sessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP): Students can meet language requirements by completing a pre-sessional English course.
- Advanced Standing: Students may be able to start their undergraduate course in year 2 or 3 based on prior studies.
