MA 3D Computer Animation is delivered across four terms, starting in September and finishing in December the year after. Incorporating a summer break, this is a one-year full-time course (45 taught weeks), delivered over 15 months.
You will respond to briefs that are set to test the learning in the units described below. Each course is divided into units, which are credit-rated. The minimum unit size is 20 credits. The MA course structure involves six units, totalling 180 credits.
Autumn, Term One
Unit summary:
- 3D Computer Animation Fundamentals (40 credits)
- Design for Animation, Narrative Structures & Film Language (20 Credits)
In Term One, you will explore a range of both technical and conceptual approaches to 3D computer animation and real-time motion graphics. Work will explore technologies and processes by producing short-form animation across the 3D computer animation spectrum to set briefs. You'll also engage in a programme of theoretical seminars that explore the cinematic and interactive underpinning of this practice. This phase is the technical and conceptual basis for the subsequent phases of the course.
Spring and Summer, Terms Two and Three
Unit summary:
- Advanced and Experimental 3D Computer Animation Techniques (40 credits)
- Collaborative Unit (20 Credits)
In Terms Two and Three, you will engage in experimental 3D computer animation processes and practice, developing your distinct visual voice. This is underpinned by a critical study that will significantly expand your understanding of what themes animation can address in a critical context and across interdisciplinary fields.
You will experiment widely across a technical programme introducing you to various 3D computer animation techniques. These techniques focus on pushing the boundary of what 3D computer animation can deliver, exploring formats from flat screen to AR and VR, and potential interactive approaches and games.
Autumn, Term Four
Unit summary:
- Final Major Project and Thesis (60 Credits)
In Term Four, you will use the knowledge, skills and experience gained on the course so far, and synthesise these through the production of a collaborative interdisciplinary or self-directed longer final major project and associated thesis.
The thesis is a 5000-word reflective report should show that the design and production processes carried out in your final major project exhibit the required characteristics for a Masters degree.
It should discuss the decisions that have been made and placed in the context of current industry practice and research in the area and reflect on the process and the final multimedia content to identify its strengths and weaknesses.
It is an opportunity for you to demonstrate the depth of critical understanding of your field and to show that you can objectively analyse your own work.
Course structure
The information outlined is an indicative structure of the course. Whilst we will aim to deliver the course as described on this page, there may be situations where it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, for example because of regulatory requirements or operational efficiencies, before or after enrolment. If this occurs, we will communicate all major changes to all applicants and students who have either applied or enrolled on the course.
Please note that due to staff research agreements or availability, not all of the optional modules listed may be available every year.
In addition, the provision of course options which depend upon the availability of specialist teaching, or on a placement at another institution, cannot be guaranteed. Please check this element of the course with the course team before making a decision to apply.
Webpage updates
We will update this webpage from time to time with new information as it becomes available. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact a member of the course team.
