BA Animation

Institution University of the West of England
Method At the institution
Location Bristol City
Type Undergraduate
Course fee By request

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BA Animation

Objectives Animation at Bristol UWE is taught within the prestigious Bristol School of Animation, which is linked to some of the major practitioners within the animation industry in the country. Bristol has a long tradition in the training of successful animators, many of whom have gone on to work as either independent producers/film makers, freelance practitioners or with leading animation production studios. Visits to studios are included in the programme along with visits to festivals and regular screenings and guest speakers.
Entry requirements Entry requirements Applicants from the following routes will be considered: students with A-levels, students with BTEC/GNVQ Media, students from Foundation and Access courses. Applicants demonstrating commitment to and knowledge of the subject on their application form are invited to interview where they will be required to present a collection of their creative work. The emphasis is on quality not quantity, but you might include samples from any of the following: video show reels, CD-ROMs, web design work, audio materials, artwork, storyboards, photography and samples of written work.
Academic title BA Animation
Course description Content

During the course you are introduced to contemporary production processes and methodologies as well as those fundamental principles of animation that may be applied within classical 2D and 3D, stop frame and computer (CG) animation. Film making, narrative and design for animation are central to the programme.

Year 1
During this very critical first year you will take a series of introductory modules that include: Principles of Animation, Introduction to Animation Forms, Action Analysis and Design for Animation. This period of exploration and investigation provides you with an understanding of the principles of animation and those technical skills and knowledge across a range of disciplines that will enable you to better place your practice for further creative development during Year 2.

Year 2
Building on from the principles of animation and animation production the second year enables you to develop design related aspects of animation and film making including Cinematography, Producing, Production Design, Directing and Sound Design and Production. Coupled with a module on Professional Practice this year enables you to begin to apply those transferable skills and knowledge that you gained during Year 1 within a more creative framework and the context of contemporary professional practice. A range of option modules in Semester 2 will enable you to further develop your practice in line with your own area of specialist interest.

Year 3
During the third year you will undertake a major self-directed programme of study. This not only reflects your own individual area or research but allows you to test ideas and concepts in a completely professional environment in preparation for production. Your final production is completed to industry standard and as part of your studies you will be expected to prepare your portfolio and show reel within a format that enables you to further exploit the work within a broader commercial context. There is also an opportunity to work with MA Animation students and become involved in collaborative work with other institutions such as the Royal Academy of Music.