Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines technical training in industry-standard tools with creative production work and research-led practice. Teaching is project-based and covers the end-to-end digital effects pipeline from asset creation and simulation to lighting, rendering and compositing. You will study both the artistic and technical aspects required to deliver believable visual effects for moving image.

• Core techniques: modelling, texturing, shading, rigging and look development for film and broadcast.
• Simulation and dynamics: particle, fluid, cloth and rigid-body simulations and how they are integrated into shots.
• Lighting and rendering: physically based rendering workflows, optimization, AOVs and colour management.
• Compositing and VFX finishing: multi-pass compositing, rotoscoping, keying, match-moving and plate integration.
• Pipeline and production: asset management, version control, scripting for artist tools and working within production pipelines.
• Professional practice and project management: teamwork on short films or VFX sequences, client briefs, pitching and portfolio development.
• Major project/dissertation: a substantial individual or group project that demonstrates your technical and creative command, typically resulting in showreel material and a written reflection or research component.

Teaching methods include studio workshops, supervised projects, lectures and masterclasses with industry guests. Assessment is via practical projects, showreel submissions, written reports and the final major project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject such as animation, film and media, computer science, visual effects or a closely related discipline. A typical offer level is a UK second-class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent; candidates with a 2:2 may be considered if they can demonstrate substantial relevant experience or an exceptional portfolio.

• Portfolio: a showreel or portfolio demonstrating relevant skills (animation, compositing, modelling, VFX shots) is required. Include a short supporting statement explaining your contribution to group work where applicable.
• Experience: professional experience in film, post-production, games or related media can strengthen an application.
• English language: for applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of proficiency is required (the university typically accepts common tests such as IELTS at an appropriate level—check the institution for current requirements).
• References and personal statement: academic or professional references and a personal statement outlining your motivation and goals are normally requested.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical showreel material and the technical understanding to work within the creative industries. Typical roles include:

• VFX artist / compositor
• CG generalist or specialist (modeller, lighters, lookdev artist)
• Pipeline technician or technical artist (scripting and tool development)
• Matchmove / tracking artist
• Simulation artist (fluids, cloth, destruction)
• VFX producer or coordinator and roles in post-production supervision

Graduates work across film, television, advertising, games and VR/AR production, or pursue freelance practice. The programme also provides a foundation for further research or PhD study in computer graphics and visual effects.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University has a strong reputation for practice-led media and creative technology teaching, with connections to the UK’s visual effects and animation community. The course emphasises real-world production, portfolio development and access to industry-standard hardware and software used across the VFX sector.

Students benefit from project-based learning, opportunities to collaborate with peers across film and media disciplines, and input from industry practitioners through guest lectures and workshops. The course is designed to prepare you for the collaborative and technical demands of contemporary VFX production and to support transition into professional roles or entrepreneurial practice.