Modules
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
The World of Animation
Year: 1
This module introduces students to a range of concepts and theories required to gain a comprehensive understanding of animation in a broader context, as well as its impact and effects. This enables students to develop their independent thinking skills, communication skills via informed debate and writing and presentation skills. The module also offers an introduction to the study skills essential for undergraduate learning and encourages students' reflective practice.
Animation Studio
Year: 1
This module introduces the core themes of animation giving students a strong knowledge base upon which to build the skills necessary to succeed, both in the animation industry and on the course. On completion students will have grown as artists and personally through collaboration with both their peers and staff.
3D Digital Literacy
Year: 1
This module is all about understanding 3D computer graphic theory, methodologies and practice in design & making. The animation world discourse and animation studio modules from first semester lay the foundations for this module, where theory, reflection & practice are explored. Using 3D terminology & history as a starting point we explore how to design and construct 3D digital art in the context of animation. We consider concept designs and how users approach collaborative work through practical group projects. Alongside this we develop our students understanding of gathering, organising and assimilating information and research, the module looks at how this might be visually interpreted in a variety of ways.
The completion of this module helps form sound design practices going into 2nd year.
Animated Narratives
Year: 1
The design pathways module provides an important foundation in the methods of exploring the impact linear and non-linear narrative has had in the development of interaction and animation and how it will effect future design evolutions within the discipline of design for interaction and animation. There is a strong emphasis on the development of storyboards, and previsualisations for information and animation based content as a vehicle for exploration and discovery.
Year two
Animation Discourse
Year: 2
Students complete this module having obtained a clear understanding of how the various practices and processes of animation are discussed both critically and academically. Students also gain a wider perspective on the numerous and often overlooked concerns facing practitioners in this field. In addition to this, students build on previous level 4 "critical skills" development while concurrently preparing for level 6 "Animation Dissertation/Report".
Animation Strategies
Year: 2
This module looks to build on skills & learning outcomes obtained from first year. Team-based projects and workshops will enable students to develop their ability to deal with design for animation as an abstract concept where there is no single given or prescribed "solution". They will demonstrate their ability to construct original ideas from their exploration of the problem/s that also involves a level of risk-taking and experimentation. The depth, range and quality of their thinking and reflection will be evidenced through the documentation of their working processes. Students will be encouraged to look at a wide range of possible outcomes and be encouraged to engage with relevant contexts. The module offers essential study skills in 3D design and animation that will help them throughout 2nd year.
Animation for the Creative Industries
Year: 2
With the creative skills gained in the Animation Strategies module, this studio based module expands and focuses on prototyping, evaluation and refinement of design for animation within the creative industries.
Students will inform their practice through directly witnessing and experiencing aspects of behaviour in the real world as a way of inspiring and informing design decisions.
On completion, students will refine their understanding of the creative and technical requirements of design for animation within a team-based context, preparing them to progress confidently to projects with greater scope. Team development and feedback will increase student awareness of their combined strengths and how they will shape their future. Further to this, students who have completed all modules will be able to look at Industry Placement, International Academic Studies or progression to final year.
Professional Practice
Year: 2
In this module you will conduct a work placement in a professional area of design or animation. You will reflect upon and evaluate your expereince in an illustrated written report. you will establish methods of documenting work in professional forms of portfolio, presentqation talk, statement and cv. you will acquire and extend knowledge of the wider professional fields of design and animation. It is related to the workplace and aspect of professionalism and employability, linking with level 5 modules and development through to level 6.
Year three
Placement
Year: 3
This module is optional
This is an optional placement year for students who have completed Level 5 prior to the final year of study. The placement must be a minimum of 25 weeks duration and can be in a broad range of Art/Professional practice. A programme of work is agreed by the student, the Placement Tutor and the Placement Partner and usually takes place in Europe with respect to the relevant health and safety and disability regulations.(SENDO). The placement is designed to increase experience of workshop/studio/communal and technical practice, while broadening and enhancing the student`s social, personal and professional development. Upon successful completion of the placement year the student is awarded a Diploma in Professional Studies (DPP) or a Diploma in Professional Practice (DPPI) International upon graduation from the course.
International Academic Studies
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides an opportunity to undertake an extended period of study outside the UK and Republic of Ireland. Students will develop an enhanced understanding of the academic discipline whilst generating educational and cultural networks.
Year four
Animation Dissertation/Report
Year: 4
Dissertation:
The module is text-based and facilitates a broader understanding of the context of animation practice and the broader themes using theoretical debates and analytical methodologies.
Industry Report:
This module requires students to make an analysis of industry standards or procedures, and to identify and justify how their own studio practice fit into an emerging or established field. The analysis takes the form of a professionally produced industry research report. The students led nature of this module, through researching and writing a dissertation or industry report, will develop intellectual confidence and self-expression.
Creative Futures
Year: 4
Graduates seeking careers within the highly competitive animation industry require the ability to promote themselves professionally through many diverse channels. This module prepares the students self-branding appropriate to the animation industry using both traditional and digital methods.
Major Project
Year: 4
This module is project-based. It consists of a major piece of design work whose topic is chosen by the student under the supervision of the module coordinator. The major project will form a major part in the student's portfolio of work and is the culmination of the course. This 80 credit module spans two semesters and allows for ambition, risk-taking and continuity, which is reflective of practice in the professional field. This will prepare you for the rigours of postgraduate study and industry practice.
