Program Overview

Introduction to the FdA Digital Animation Design and Production Program

The FdA Digital Animation Design and Production program is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and support necessary to explore the world of animation. This program is ideal for individuals who are passionate about creative expression and storytelling through various forms of animation.

Course Overview

Animation is a versatile medium that can be used for humor, social commentary, and entertainment. Digital animators are in high demand, working on character design, environments, pre-visualization, and animatics within 2D, 3D, stop motion, and hybrid work. The program aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of the processes and skills expected of a professional animator.

Course Content

The course covers various areas, including:

• Life drawing
• 2D/digital design and illustration
• Stop motion and model making
• Character design, expression, acting, and movement
• Writing for animation
• Storyboarding, shot, and camera
• Animatic work
• Environment, asset design, color, and lighting (2D, 2.5D, and 3D)
• Post-production, effects, and color grading
• Pitching ideas
• Working independently and within a team as an animator
• Workflow and roles

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Work confidently on all stages of an animation production
• Work independently as an animator or as part of a production team
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of the medium and its storytelling potential
• Work at a higher academic level, managing their own future learning and development
• Take a strong portfolio of their work forward

Admission Requirements

To apply for the FdA Digital Animation Design and Production program, students need:

• 48 UCAS Tariff points from two full A Levels or equivalent (e.g., BTEC National Diploma, NVQ 3)
• Level 2 in English and Maths (e.g., GCSE grade 4 or above, Functional Skills Level 2 or NVQ Level 2) Alternatively, students can apply with a relevant Access to Higher Education Diploma. Relevant subjects include Multimedia, Graphics, Computing, Art, and Illustration.

Course Costs

The tuition fee for the program is ｣7,750 per academic year. Students who are eligible can apply for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees. International fees are not currently available due to UKVI regulations.

Program Structure

The program is divided into two years, with the following modules:

Year 1

• Animation Fundamentals
• Practical Skills and Techniques 1
• FMP 1: Proof of Concept (individual)

Year 2

• Professional Case Study
• Practical Skills and Techniques 1
• Individual Pitch/Proposal
• FMP 2: Proof of Concept (group)

Awarding Body and Qualification

The awarding body for the FdA Digital Animation Design and Production program is the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), and the qualification is a Foundation Degree.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in various fields, including:

• Creative Directors
• Artists/Illustrators
• Graphic Designers
• Multimedia Designers/Animators
• UI/UX Designers/Developers
• Web Designers

Potential salaries for these careers range from ｣15,948 to ｣73,356, with average salaries between ｣23,875 and ｣41,885. Annual openings for these positions vary, but the program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen career path.