MA Animation
College
LCC
Start date
September 2019
Course length
1 year 3 months full time (45 weeks across a four-term model)
Course summary
MA Animation explores both the theory and practice of animation across a broad range of experimental visual media.
About this course
MA Animation allows you to test and discover creative ideas within a critical framework, whilst developing accomplished production skills across 2D, 2.5D, 3D, stop-motion and drawn animation.
The course encourages experimental and reflective practice that echoes the cross media nature of the design, communication and media industries.
It builds on LCC's extensive resources, in digital, time-based and interactive media alongside printmaking, graphic design and visual communication.
Electric Wings by Rafael A. Rodes
Electric Wings by Rafael A. Rodes
21:00 by David Zamorano
21:00 is an Animated Mapping Projection Installation, focusing on how do people inhabit spaces.
World Naked Bike Ride by Jiaqi Wang
Jiaqui Wang made an animation for The World Naked Bike Ride – a global protest where people cycle naked through cities.
Cree Dolls by David Zamorano
Cree Dolls by David Zamorano
Stonewall Hate Crime by Boris Rodrigo Rodriguez
Stonewall Hate Crime by Boris Rodrigo Rodriguez
Fredun Shapur by Alejandra Serra
An animation made by Alejandra Serra for the V&A Museum of Childhood
Present & Correct by David Zamorano
Present & Correct by David Zamorano
Work by Jiaqi Wang
Animation collaborating with The Cuming Museum by student Jiaqi Wang
Work by David Zamorano.
Animation for The Cuming Museum by David Zamorano.
Student Voices: Alejandra Serra
MA Animation student Alejandra talks us through her work in the London College of Communication Postgraduate Shows 2016.
Student Voices: Rafael Aflalo
MA Animation student Rafael talks us through his work in the London College of Communication Postgraduate Shows 2016.
Instagram Feed
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#Repost @limqunxiang ・・・ Switch is a projection interactive book. What I want to delivery to audiences is not only abou...
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Thank you for everyone that joined us for the Feminist Library - 44th years of feminist archiving and activism, and coun...
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Feminist Library - 43 years of feminist archiving and activism, and counting 14/3/19 2pm Moving Picture Cinema, Mercato ...
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#wip #saturdayclub linocut Used the barrier cream tub as a stand to make a quick test @daisyinreallife...
Course stories
Facilities
Printmaking
This workshop offers a wide-range of expertise in everything from etching to lithography.
The Digital Space
The Digital Space is an open-plan, creative hub with computers set up with specialist software.
Animation and Games Design
Discover the range of resources on offer to students studying Animation and Games Design.
Course details
Animation at LCC is taught as a broad and experimental visual practice in the context of communication design. With new technologies changing how we make, understand and experience animation, students are encouraged to test boundaries and look at animation in many forms and in many ways.
MA Animation explores both the theory and practice of animation aiming to give you the tools to be able to express creative ideas using a broad range of experimental visual media. You will investigate the production of animation in an era with unparalleled opportunities for skilled visual communicators.
What can you expect?
The central ethos of the course is to give you enough freedom and guidance to test and discover creative ideas within a critical framework in balance with developing the accomplished production skills across 2D, 2.5D, 3D, stop-motion and drawn animation, to realise your creative goals.
You will develop skills in narrative storytelling and interpreting ideas for the flat screen and you'll also be encouraged to work across multiple formats. You'll explore how animation can be used in different contexts, such as in the fine arts installation as well as in digital media – exploring the online, mobile and interactive opportunities for animation practice.
The course supports progression to research at MPhil/PhD level as well as to advanced self-directed experimental practice.
Building on LCC's resources, in digital, time-based and interactive media alongside printmaking, graphic design and visual communication, the course encourages an experimental and reflective practice that echoes the cross media nature of the design, communication and media industries.
Course units
The course 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
Units Summary:
- Animation Practice and Process 3D & 2D (40 Credits)
- Design for Animation, Narrative Structures and Film Language (20 Credits)
In Term One you will explore a range of both technical and conceptual approaches to animation and work with a range of technologies and processes by producing short-form animation across 2D & 3D to set briefs. You'll also engage in a programme of theoretical seminars that explore the cinematic underpinning of this practice. This phase is the technical and conceptual basis for the subsequent units of the course.
Spring, Term Two
Units Summary:
- Experimental Critical Practice and Research (40 Credits)
- Collaborative Unit (20 Credits)
You'll engage in experimental 2D/3D animation process and practice, developing your distinct visual voice. This is underpinned by critical study that significantly expands your understanding of the themes animation can address in a critical context, and by a technical programme that ensures you are able to experiment widely with various animation techniques. Term Two specifically contains the cross College collaborative unit.
Summer and Autumn, Terms Three and Four
Units Summary:
- Final Major Project and Thesis (60 credits)
- Experimental Critical Practice and Research (40 credits)
- Final Major Project and Thesis (continued)
You will take the knowledge, skills and experience gained on the course and bring these together in the production of a self-directed longer form project and associated thesis.
If you are unable to continue or decide to exit the course, there are two possible exit awards. A Postgraduate Certificate will be awarded on successful completion of the first 60 credits and a Postgraduate Diploma will be awarded on successful completion of the first 120 credits.
Learning and teaching methods
- Lectures/Large Group Learning
- Workshop and Seminar Learning
- Academic Tutorials
- Individual and group critiques
- Individual project work
- Self-Directed learning
- Assessed Assignments
- Technical Workshops
- Demonstrations
Assessment methods
The course objectives are assessed using the following assessment methods:
- The portfolio of work: This contains creative design and associated developmental artefacts produced in the process of engaging with set design briefs. This will also include a research weblog and/or sketchbook documenting your iterative design and development process and any other specific elements required by the unit.
- Prepared writing: This includes academic writing i.e. thesis and dissertations, reports, critical and reflective writing any other specific forms required by the unit.
- Crits and presentations: Oral presentation and personal presentations of creative work are used in formative assessments on all studio units in the course to ensure you are confident about your work and get the benefit of seeing the work of your peers in a critical context.
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.
Staff
Kim Noce
Course Leader, MA Animation
Katerina Athanasopoulou
Course Tutor, BA (Hons) Animation
Joel Karamath
Course Leader, BA (Hons) Interaction Design Arts
Su-Lynn Tan
Lecturer, BA (Hons) Animation
How to apply
Opportunities for all
We are committed to making university education an achievable option for a wider range of people and to supporting all of our students in achieving their potential both during and after their courses.
We welcome applications from people with disabilities. If you have a disability (e.g. mobility difficulties, sensory impairments, medical or mental health conditions or Asperger’s syndrome) we strongly encourage you to contact us on disability@arts.ac.uk or +44 (0)20 7514 6156 so that we can plan the right support for you. All enquiries are treated confidentially. To find out more, visit our Disability & Dyslexia webpages.
Entry requirements
An applicant will normally be considered for admission if they have achieved an educational level equivalent to an honours degree in either animation, illustration, visual communication, graphic design or closely related subject, and present a portfolio of moving-image work. However, we do not exclude candidates who have graduated from other less strongly aligned disciplines.
This educational level may be demonstrated by:
- Honours degree (named above);
- Possession of equivalent qualifications;
- Prior experiential learning, the outcome of which can be demonstrated to be equivalent to formal qualifications otherwise required;
- Or a combination of formal qualifications and experiential learning which, taken together, can be demonstrated to be equivalent to formal qualifications otherwise required.
APEL (Accreditation of Prior Learning)
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases. The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
- Related academic or work experience
- The quality of the personal statement
- A strong academic or other professional reference
- OR a combination of these factors
Each application will be considered on its own merit but we cannot guarantee an offer in each case.
Language requirements
All classes are conducted in English. If English is not your first language, we strongly recommend you let us know your English language test score in your application. If you have booked a test or are awaiting your results, please indicate this in your application. When asked to upload a CV as part of your application, please include any information about your English test score.
- IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) is required, with a minimum of 5.5 in each of the four skills.
- If your first language is not English, you can check you have achieved the correct IELTS level in English on the Language Requirements page.
Selection criteria
Offers will be made based on the following selection criteria, which applicants are expected to demonstrate:
- Sufficient prior knowledge and experience of and/or potential in animation practice to be able to successfully complete the programme of study, and have an academic or professional background in a relevant subject
- Knowledge of visual culture and an ability to engage in critical discussion
Making your application
All applications will be considered by the course team who will consider key elements when making a decision on your suitability to join the course:
- First, they will look at your qualifications and transcript (or projected results)
- Secondly, they will review your personal statement and portfolio
- There is no requirement for an academic or professional reference.
Required information for all postgraduate course applications
Before you apply, please take time to read the guidance below. You will be asked to provide the following items and upload documents when completing the online application form:
- Personal details (including full name; date of birth; nationality; permanent address and English language level)
- Current and/or previous education and qualification details
- Employment history
- CV
- Personal statement
Extra information required for applications to this course:
- Portfolio
- Study proposal/project proposal
Start your application now
The online application can be saved as you fill it out, so you don’t need to complete it all at once. You will also have the chance to review all the information and make any necessary amendments before you press submit.
Application deadline
Applications are accepted and offers are made, throughout the year. Early application is advised.
CV
Please provide a CV detailing your education, qualifications and any relevant work or voluntary experience. If English is not your first language it is important that you also include in your CV details of your most recent English language test score.
Personal statement advice
You will be asked to complete a personal statement describing why you want to study on MA Animation. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate critical knowledge of and enthusiasm for the subject, and a well-articulated rationale for joining the course.
The personal statement is a very important part of your application and should demonstrate to the course team that you're interested in animation and that you have thought very carefully about why you wish to study on the course.
Ensure that your personal statement it is well written, clear and free of any spelling mistakes. It's your chance to impress the course team by showing a strong interest in the subject, demonstrating what you feel you would bring to the course, your appreciation of what the course can offer you and how you feel it might help you in the future.
This can be demonstrated through work experience, previous studies and your personal experience.
All applications will be considered by the course team who will consider key elements when making a decision on your suitability to join the course:
- First, they will look at your qualifications and transcript (or projected results)
- Secondly, they will review your personal statement and portfolio
- There is no requirement for an academic or professional reference.
Required information for all postgraduate course applications
Before you apply, please take time to read the guidance below. You will be asked to provide the following items and upload documents when completing the online application form:
- Personal details (including full name; date of birth; nationality; permanent address and English language level)
- Current and/or previous education and qualification details
- Employment history
- CV
- Personal statement
Please note: we will ask you for copies of certain documents (for example, English language qualification/certificate and copies of any previous UK study visas).
For further advice on how to apply please visit the UAL International Application page.
Extra information required for applications to this course:
- Portfolio
- Study proposal/project proposal
Start your application now
The online application can be saved as you fill it out, so you don’t need to complete it all at once. You will also have the chance to review all the information and make any necessary amendments before you press submit.
Alternatively, international applicants can apply through an overseas representative in your country.
Application deadline
Applications are accepted and offers are made, throughout the year. Early application is advised.
Immigration history check
Whether you are applying through a UAL representative or direct application you will need to complete an Immigration History check. If you do not complete the Immigration History Check we will not be able to proceed with your application.
CV
Please provide a CV detailing your education, qualifications and any relevant work or voluntary experience. If English is not your first language it is important that you also include in your CV details of your most recent English language test score.
Personal statement advice
You will be asked to complete a personal statement describing why you want to study on MA Animation. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate critical knowledge of and enthusiasm for the subject, and a well-articulated rationale for joining the course.
The personal statement is a very important part of your application and should demonstrate to the course team that you're interested in animation and that you have thought very carefully about why you wish to study on the course.
Ensure that your personal statement it is well written, clear and free of any spelling mistakes. It's your chance to impress the course team by showing a strong interest in the subject, demonstrating what you feel you would bring to the course, your appreciation of what the course can offer you and how you feel it might help you in the future.
This can be demonstrated through work experience, previous studies and your personal experience.
Study proposal/project proposal advice
The proposal should be a short idea of maximum 250 words which should explore the idea and technique for an animation project you wish to create. This can be a film, installation, or another format. The Proposal should include at least one image or sketch.
After you apply
Communicating with you
After you have successfully submitted your application online, you will receive an email confirming your application and providing your login details for the UAL Applicant Portal. Please log into the portal, as this is where we will send you important updates and requests, and you can contact us with any questions you may have about your application.
What happens next
Portfolio advice
All applicants will be expected to submit an electronic portfolio of a maximum of 20 images as part of their application. Your portfolio should have some examples of image-led and visual work from either education or professional practice. It should contain a minimum of five projects, and self-initiated projects are also encouraged.
Of the 20 images, you should include an animation movie of minimum 60 seconds in length. In the 'image title' field, please state your role (animator, editor, sound, story, background) and techniques you have used. Preferably it should a personal work and animated entirely by yourself.
At application stage, we are as excited to see a portfolio of strong image making that has a sense of sequential play, as we are to see an accomplished portfolio of animation work.
As a student on the course you will have been selected for something specific you portray through your portfolio. This could be a strong illustration or design portfolio that indicates a desire to take work into the 3D space and work with sound in a time-based format, or an accomplished portfolio of animation work that indicates a commitment to focus on personal development through a further course of study.
Applicants are usually interviewed by the course team before a place can be offered. Interviews will take place at LCC, or via Skype/telephone.
Study proposal/project proposal advice
The proposal should be a short idea of maximum 250 words which should explore the idea and technique for an animation project you wish to create. This can be a film, installation, or another format. The Proposal should include at least one image or sketch.
How we notify you of the outcome of your application
You will receive the outcome of your application through the UAL Applicant Portal.
Deferrals
Deferring an offer
If you are offered a place for 2019/20 but wish to defer to 2020/21, information on how to do this and who to contact can be found in your offer letter. Additionally, International applicants will have to pay a pre-payment in order to defer. In all cases, deferred places will be held for one year.
Making a deferred application (during 2018/19 for entry in 2020/21)
Home/EU applicants are permitted to make a deferred application. International applicants are not permitted to make a deferred application.
Fees & Funding
Home / EU fee
£10,890 (2019/20).
UAL alumni receive a £1,000 discount
Course fees may be paid in instalments
International fee
£19,930 (2019/20).
UAL alumni receive a £1,000 discount
Course fees may be paid in instalments
Additional costs
In addition to tuition fees you are very likely to incur additional costs such as travel expenses and the cost of materials. We strongly suggest you read the information on our Additional Costs page.
Accommodation
Find out about the accommodation options available and how much they will cost.
Scholarships and awards
A range of scholarships, bursaries and awards are available to postgraduate students at UAL.
Postgraduate loans of up to £10,000 are now available for eligible UK and EU students. A full list of eligibility criteria and information on applying can be found on the postgraduate loans webpage.
Home / EU and International students
Funding opportunities available for this course:
Any questions? Please email funding@arts.ac.uk or visit Postgraduate Funding.
Careers and alumni
Graduates of MA Animation will be equipped to work in an increasingly technologically informed and interdisciplinary design world, with in-depth skills in the following areas: animation and animation production both 3D and 2D visual communication, narrative and sequential image making, typography, and time-based design as well as having a portfolio of personal work to enable you to seek work as a commercial animation director.
A significant proportion of graduates from this course will want to practice as commercial animators.