Course structure
Core modules
3D Optimisation
Game graphics continue to increase in complexity, but the need for optimised assets continues. You explore the production of efficient and effective game-ready art assets that meet the high visual expectations of users and the technical limitations of various game platforms, such as consoles, mobile and pc. You focus on model topology, texel density, and shader network optimization. You also explore UV and textures as a tile-able and reusable resource.
100% assessment with two elements - an asset submission based on a brief and an illustrated report.
Group Project
You complete a multidisciplinary group project in your area of interest to create a short film or video game cutscene.
You work in an individual production role within small teams to create an original short film or cutscene, which provide a high-end showpiece for your portfolio.
Lighting and Rendering
You explore strategies for the technical implementation and artistic considerations for real-time efficiency in different lighting, visual style and environment scenarios for games. You use this and hone your practice and asset management strategies in preparation for professional practice. You develop lighting skills and art direction, specifically for real-time environments and assets presentation.
Assessment is an ICA – you create a single scene from a cinematic inspired brief and reflect on the result in a presentation.
Master's Project: 3D Games Art
You undertake a major, in-depth, individual study in an aspect of 3D games art. Your project is drawn from appropriate problem areas in the games art or closely related fields. The project involves research and investigation in relevant aspects of a very specific area of study followed by the production of a major deliverable portfolio of relevant practice based materials from the area of 3D games art. You also produce a written report that contextualises and critically evaluates your final outputs.
Assessment 100% ICA. The major deliverable(s) are assessed through a viva. You also produce an accompanying report with research, project process and evaluation, which contextualises and evaluates the creative output.
Material Creation
You focus on creating high quality cost effective game asset materials by developing new skills and building advanced knowledge in procedural and custom asset generation for complex material workflows. Appropriate software is used to produce real-time game assets.
100% assessment - a portfolio of 3D assets, report and poster.
Modelling and Sculpting
Explore how hard surface and digital sculpting software is used to create sophisticated 3D assets for 3D games production. You require skills in basic 3D modelling and UV unwrapping, sculpting and understanding of proper topology.
100% ICA - the construction of a hard surface and organic scene within a relevant 3D modelling / digital sculpting software.
Research and Development
You explore and define the parameters of your own professional practice and research interests. You are encouraged to: develop understanding and gain experience in research as an academic discipline and as part of the creative process; define and develop ideas through creative exploration; consider and evaluate the potential of project proposals for future realisation; engage in activities, projects and networking appropriate to plans and aspirations; gain relevant experience; explore local, regional, national and global opportunities; research and reflect upon the social, philosophical and professional contexts in which you are working; test possibilities and develop the enterprise potential of your ideas.
Advanced practice (2 year full-time MA only)
Internship
The internship options are:
Vocational: spend one semester working full-time in industry or on placement in the University. We have close links with a range of national and international companies who could offer you the chance to develop your knowledge and professional skills in the workplace through an internship. Although we cannot guarantee internships, we will provide you with practical support and advice on how to find and secure your own internship position. A vocational internship is a great way to gain work experience and give your CV a competitive edge.
Research: develop your research and academic skills by undertaking a research internship within the University. Experience working as part of a research team in an academic setting. Ideal for those who are interested in a career in research or academia.
