Program Overview

Computer Animation and Visual Effects

The University of Bedfordshire offers a BSc (Hons) in Computer Animation and Visual Effects, a course that equips students with the latest creative, design, and technical skills to produce digital content in the form of computer-generated animation or visual effects. This innovative program is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in the digital creative industries related to computer animation and visual effects.

About the Course

The course is structured to provide students with hands-on experience using industry-standard tools and software, exploring emerging applications such as virtual reality and mixed reality. It covers a wide range of topics, including fundamentals of creative technologies, games and digital asset design, 2D graphics and digital art, and digital video and animation.

Facilities and Specialist Equipment

Students have access to specialist games, animation, and graphics labs with VR technology, high-spec computers, motion-capture and green-screen studios, and cutting-edge software including Autodesk 3ds Max, Maya, Unreal Engine, and Blender. The university's modern computing labs, group study hubs, and bespoke teaching spaces in the STEM building provide an ideal learning environment.

Your Student Experience

The course offers a unique student experience, with shared teaching with students from the game development course, allowing for the exchange of ideas and understanding. The staff's real-world expertise feeds directly into their teaching, keeping students up to date within this rapidly progressing industry. Students learn to tackle complex problems through practical projects designed to meet the needs of customers, businesses, and society.

Course Structure

The course is typically taken over three years, with an optional fourth year for a placement in industry. The structure includes:

• Year 1: Fundamentals of creative technologies, games and digital asset design, 2D graphics and digital art, and digital video and animation.
• Year 2: Compositing for visual effects, 3D graphics and animation, professional industry portfolio, and studio development project.
• Year 3: Advanced animation and visual effects, disruptive technologies, research methodologies and emerging technologies, and an undergraduate project.

Assessment

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including coursework, group and individual projects, portfolios, essays, presentations, and exams. The assessment process is designed to evaluate students' understanding and application of the concepts learned throughout the course.

Careers

Graduates of the Computer Animation and Visual Effects course can pursue a wide range of careers, including 3D modelling, technical animation, digital compositing, and visualization for emerging fields such as virtual production. Successful graduates may gain employment in the digital creative industries or continue their studies at the Master's level.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the course include 96 UCAS tariff points, including 80 from at least 3 A-levels or equivalent. For international students, the requirements may vary, and it's advisable to check with the university for the most up-to-date information.

Fees

The full-time standard undergraduate tuition fee for the Academic Year 2026/27 is ｣9,790 per year for UK students, and ｣16,900 per year for international students. The university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial support packages to help students with their studies.

Conclusion

The BSc (Hons) Computer Animation and Visual Effects at the University of Bedfordshire is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and expertise needed to succeed in the digital creative industries. With its state-of-the-art facilities, experienced staff, and industry-relevant curriculum, this course provides an excellent foundation for a career in computer animation and visual effects.