3D Animation Pathways in the UK

Thanks to the advancement of film, computer gaming and special effects, 3D animation is increasingly popular. This has meant that the demand for specially trained 3D animators is higher than ever. Courses might be called 3D animation, or 3D computer animation. You will learn a variety of cutting edge skills, such as graphic design, visual effects, character animation and motion capture.

Studying 3D Animation as an Undergraduate

An undergraduate degree will give a good foundation level of 3D animation knowledge. You will explore the animation industry, and develop an understanding of industry standard equipment and technology. As well as this, you will likely be introduced to the games industry and film industry, as they are popular destinations for graduates. You might study modules on 3D digital animation and games, film, television, design concepts, and post-production techniques.

Your degree will be taught through a mixture of modes. Although this will include lectures and seminars, because animation is a highly creative industry, you will also be given many opportunities to put your knowledge into practice. Some universities might encourage you to participate in a placement year or module.

Postgraduate 3D Animation Studies

A postgraduate degree in 3D animation will allow you to build on your knowledge and skills. You will further develop your practical skills, learning more advanced and complex techniques. Your postgraduate modules might include working on animals and creatures, character performance, and locomotion and mechanics.

Your degree will be delivered through lectures and seminars, as well as practical and computer laboratory sessions. There will be an emphasis on practical application, and you may be presented with the opportunity to take part in a work placement, or attend talks and classes with industry professionals.

Depending on where you choose to study, you may be able to specialise throughout your degree. Your specialisation of choice can influence the area in which you work or study after you have graduated. It can also help you to decide what area you wish to do your dissertation or research project on. Common specialisations include:

• Virtual Reality
• Motion Graphics
• Pre-production Design
• Films and Games Design
• Cartoon Animation
• Realistic Animation

The accreditation of your degree will depend on where you choose to study. It will also be influenced by your level of study. At undergraduate level, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Arts (BA), or a Bachelor of Science (BSc). At postgraduate level, you can expect to be awarded a Master of Arts (MA), or a Master of Fine Arts (MFA). If you choose to study for a research postgraduate degree, you will be awarded a Master of Research (MRes), a Master of Philosophy (MPhil), or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Depending on your institution, the course you choose may also be accredited by a professional or academic body. For example, in the UK, some courses could be accredited by ScreenSkills.

Generally, an undergraduate degree will take three to four years to complete. Foundation degrees, diplomas and certificates can last up to two years, when studied full-time. A postgraduate degree will normally take one to two years. If your course includes a placement year, this will normally add another year onto your studies.

Some institutions might offer part-time study options. Studying a degree part-time normally means that your course will last anywhere between three and eight years, with some universities offering more flexible study options.

It is most common for 3D animation graduates to gain employment as a 3D animator. You could work on feature length movies, short sketches, and video games. As well as this, you could work in a more generic role, such as computer programming or software engineering. You will have gained a wide range of transferable skills that will offer up opportunities in many different fields.