Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines core animation principles with visual effects techniques and production pipeline practice. Early modules focus on drawing and 2D animation fundamentals, digital modelling, basic rigging and the principles of motion and timing. You will progress to character animation, creature performance, facial animation, dynamics and simulation (fluids, particles and cloth), plus lighting, shading and physically based rendering.

• Foundations of animation and life drawing
• 3D modelling and texturing (hard-surface and organic modelling, UVs, Substance workflows)
• Character rigging and performance animation
• Particle systems, dynamics and FX simulation (Houdini workflows commonly covered)
• Lighting, shading and rendering for photoreal and stylised outputs
• Compositing and finishing (Nuke, After Effects principles)
• Pipeline and production practice, asset management and collaboration
• Game engines and real-time pipelines (Unreal/Unity introduction and real-time lighting)
• Professional development modules: showreel, pitching and industry briefs

Teaching is studio-led and practice-intensive, with regular projects, workshops and live briefs. Students use industry-standard software and hardware in dedicated motion-capture and VFX facilities, and produce a final major project and professional showreel in the final year. There is typically an option to take a placement year or industry project to gain professional experience between stages of the degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a relevant qualification at level 3 (such as A‑levels, BTEC Extended Diploma or equivalent vocational qualifications) or equivalent overseas qualifications. Admissions often consider a combination of academic profile and creative potential; a strong portfolio or digital showreel demonstrating observational drawing, basic 2D/3D work, animation tests or related media practice is normally required.

• Portfolio/showreel demonstrating relevant skills and creative thinking.
• Qualifications in a relevant subject or a mix of general qualifications plus demonstrable experience.
• International applicants must meet Bournemouth University’s English language requirements (evidence of an appropriate proficiency qualification is required where applicable).
• Applicants without traditional qualifications are considered on an individual basis; relevant work experience, short courses or a strong portfolio can support the application.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles across film, broadcast, games, advertising and immersive media. Typical job titles include 3D animator, character animator, VFX artist, compositor, lighting artist, modelling/texture artist, rigger, technical artist and pipeline engineer. The degree also supports roles in previsualisation, motion capture editing, VR/AR content creation and production management.

Many alumni work in studios producing feature films, television drama, commercials and AAA games, as well as smaller independent studios and freelancing. The showreel and placement opportunities developed during the course are central to entering the industry or progressing to specialised postgraduate training in areas such as advanced visual effects, simulation or technical animation.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University is home to nationally recognised facilities and a practice-focused approach to animation and VFX training. Students benefit from dedicated motion-capture studios, specialist VFX suites and regular access to industry-standard hardware and software. The course emphasizes real-world production, collaborative group projects and live briefs with external partners.

The university maintains industry links and a strong alumni network in the creative industries, which supports guest lectures, masterclasses and recruitment opportunities. The programme’s emphasis on showreel development, professional practice and optional placement experience prepares graduates to move directly into studio roles or to continue into postgraduate specialisms.