MA Advanced 3D Animation (Online)

Why study this subject?

The UK has created some of the most influential and loved animation, which is recognised globally.

Tax reliefs for animation have made production in the UK more attractive than ever. There were 35 British animations completed in 2019-20 which claimed Animation tax relief (ATR), with UK expenditure of £83 million.

Since the relief was introduced, 305 animations have made claims, accounting for £519 million of UK expenditure.

This new government scheme, the animation industry is able to support growth and employability within its sector. (source)

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

This course will offer you the chance to focus on creating high quality animation or animated sequence. During your time with us you will be supported by knowledgeable lecturers and industry professionals while also taking advantage of our excellent resources.

The standard of animation at BNU is very high and this is reflected in the proportion of our students who go on to work successfully in the industry afterwards. We also run small classes which ensures that students gain meaningful access to our tutors.

What facilities can I use?

Although this course is online, you’ll still be able to access a range of specialist software and hardware, including;

• Maya
• ZBrush
• Nuke
• Mari
• Substance Suite
• Marvellous Designer
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Cinema 4D
• Redshift Renderer
• Shotgun
• Houdini
• Houdini Engine
• Unreal Engine
• Megascans Asset library
• Advanced Skeleton
• And Ziva among other useful pieces of software

This can all be accessed online through our virtualised computer system which will provide you with all the necessary hardware power to complete the course no matter where you are based. Our licences can also be accessed and used on your own machines by using our Bucks Anywhere service.

What will I study?

On this degree you will cover abroad range of topics, from researching into the field of animation, looking at both historical and contemporary practice, to drafting a short sequence of your own derived from your research findings.

You will also look at the wider production pipeline needed for an animation, covering areas such as;

• modelling
• rigging
• texturing
• and lighting

Lastly, you’ll enter the preproduction phase before moving on to the production phase for your main project. This may be a continuation of your short sequence or something new and may be done individually or in a group.

How will I be taught and assessed?

We understand that to succeed on a creative course, you must be hands-on with learning. That’s why this degree is 70% practical work and 30% will involve reflective learning journals, presentations and academic reports.

This online course will be delivered via online group sessions and 1:1s with the tutors. You will be able to submit your work in progress on a regular basis in order to receive detailed feedback. You’ll also have access to lectures, other resources and current industry professionals via online lectures.

We encourage you to enter competitions, which will challenge you to produce your best work, and access feedback on your works in progress. We also run a monthly art challenge and provide additional life drawing classes, including online.