Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This programme combines creative storytelling, character development and technical animation skills across a mix of 2D, 3D and stop‑motion approaches. You will progress from core foundations in drawing, visual language and animation principles to more specialised production work, learning pipeline workflows, rigging, compositing and motion graphics.

• Year 1 / foundational modules: observational drawing, animation principles, introduction to 2D and 3D software, storyboard and narrative, collaborative short projects and idea development.
• Year 2 / intermediate modules: character design and performance, modelling and texturing, rigging and animation, stop‑motion techniques, sound design for animation, and industry practice projects or live briefs.
• Final year / advanced modules: major individual or group production (short film or series of pieces), professional development and business skills, advanced compositing and VFX integration, and a curated showreel/portfolio submission.

Throughout the course you will use industry-standard software (for example 3D packages, compositing and 2D animation tools), access specialist studios for stop‑motion, motion‑capture and green‑screen work, and be encouraged to develop a personal creative voice through experimental briefs as well as client-focused commissions.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a combination of academic qualifications and creative potential. Applicants typically present a mix of qualifications such as A‑levels, BTEC, T‑levels, or equivalent vocational qualifications, with portfolios and/or a short interview used to assess suitability. You are normally expected to demonstrate practical skills through a portfolio of sketchbook work, animated pieces, visual ideas or related creative projects.

English language competence is required from non-native speakers (accepted evidence varies by qualification). Some programmes may ask for GCSE level (or equivalent) passes in English and maths; exact requirements depend on the qualification route and should be checked with NTU admissions. If you do not have a traditional qualification route, alternative experience and a strong portfolio may be considered.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across animation, film, television, games, advertising and digital media. Common roles include:

• 2D/3D animator and character animator
• Storyboard artist and pre‑visualisation artist
• Motion graphics designer and compositing artist
• Stop‑motion animator and model maker
• Junior rigger, technical artist or pipeline developer
• Freelance animator, creative director or studio founder

The course emphasises showreel and portfolio development, preparing students for entry-level studio roles, independent production, or further study at postgraduate level. NTU's careers support and industry links help with placements, freelance opportunities and networking with studios and production companies.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers a hands‑on, practice-led environment with dedicated creative facilities and strong industry engagement. The School of Art & Design and specialised hubs (including the Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies) provide animation studios, stop‑motion facilities, motion capture, editing suites and professional sound studios.

Students benefit from regular live briefs, visiting professionals and industry workshops that inform current practice and employability. The course places emphasis on portfolio and showreel production, supported by careers advisers, enterprise events and opportunities to work on collaborative interdisciplinary projects across film, games and performance. Nottingham's creative community and festival culture also give students chances to exhibit work, pitch projects and build networks locally and nationally.