Do you have a passion for animation? Do you want to develop your skills ready for a career in this industry? On this very practical course you’ll cover a range of areas using up-to-date software, with the support and guidance from our experienced lecturers.

Split between our High Wycombe campus and BNU teaching base at Pinewood Studios, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the skills and knowledge you need for your future, all whilst studying right in the heart of the famous creative hub.

Modules

This provides a guide of the modules that make up your course. You can find more information about how your course is structured on our

Academic Advice section

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This course has Opportunity modules.

Opportunity modules are a key part of the BNU curriculum. You’ll choose modules in both your first and second year from a broad selection in areas such as sustainability, entrepreneurship, creativity, digital skills, personal growth, civic engagement, health & wellbeing and employment. Opportunity modules are designed to enable you to develop outside the traditional boundaries of your discipline and help you to further stand out from the crowd to future employers.

Find out more

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Foundation Year Core Modules Credits

Preparing for Success: Knowledge and Creativity

Credits

You’ll learn about the overlap between study skills and employability skills and develop your existing abilities in both areas. You’ll be prepared for successful progression to Level 4 academic study whilst preparing yourself for employment through inquiry-based learning, problem solving and critical and creative thinking.

Preparing for Success: Self-development and Responsibility

Credits

You’ll develop the skills associated with leadership and self-development and social and ethical awareness and responsibility, which are essential for success in higher education and in the world of work. This module will prepare you for successful progression to Level 4 academic study while allowing you to learn about employment in the twenty-fir...

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Preparing for Success: Self-development and Responsibility

Credits

You’ll develop the skills associated with leadership and self-development and social and ethical awareness and responsibility, which are essential for success in higher education and in the world of work.

This module will prepare you for successful progression to Level 4 academic study while allowing you to learn about employment in the twenty-first century through inquiry-based learning, problem solving and critical and creative thinking.

Inquiry Based Learning

Credits

This module has been designed to develop your understanding of key concepts and themes as well as basic methodologies and approaches to academic work. You’ll have the opportunity to analyse a problem or question that relates to your subject area, making use of information gathered from various sources using different methods and strategies.

Digital Media

Credits

This module introduces you to the wide variety of computer technologies used in the creation, adaptation and distribution of digital resources across a range of media platforms. It aims to provide you with basic digital media processing skills you'll need to develop and manage digital content including images, animations and audio components.

Computing Essentials

Credits

This module introduces key concepts in computing. This will include computer architectures & networking as part of a discussion about the uses of computer technology for a range of different purposes in the modern world. We'll help you learn about the design and development of websites & mobile apps, and use programming to solve different problems.

Year 1 Core Modules Credits

Introduction to 3D Modelling 20.00

Credits

20.00

You'll study how to make a 3D mesh, using the 3D modelling toolset from a modelling application. Through the process, you will also  develop your observation skills using real objects and / or reference material. You will be expected to keep and submit a reflective learning journal as supporting evidence for their project.

Texturing and Look Development 20.00

Credits

20.00

You'll study how to texture a 3D model according to reference material, how to create the maps needed to accurately shade & render an object so that it will appear indistinguishable from the real thing, and how to recognise and replicate the properties of real-world materials. You'll be given models complete with UVs for workshops & practice.

Lighting and Rendering 20.00

Credits

20.00

You'll discover how to set up a three-point lighting setup and replicate it in CG, techniques for on-set lighting in film production, why each technique might be used in different scenarios and how to match these in CG for visual effects elements. You'll study the role of lighters in the VFX industry, and managing your time and scenes efficiently.

Animation Principles and the Moving Figure 20.00

Credits

20.00

This module aims to give you an understanding of the principles of animation & practical skills to animate simple 3D rigs with weight, force & expression. In the animation studio environment you'll cover essential topics and develop the skills to create animation using industry standard software and will analyse the workflows used in the industry.

Visual Narrative 20.00

Credits

20.00

You'll study the core methods and principles of communicating a story with moving image. You'll have the chance to develop your understanding of cinematic techniques, using 3D software to experiment and test the creative possibilities of visual narrative. You'll also study the fundamentals of lighting and cameras.

Opportunity Modules

You must choose 2 x 10 credit Level 4 Opportunity modules from the Opportunity module catalogue.

Year 2 Core Modules Credits

Character Animation and Performance 20.00

Credits

20.00

This module aims to give you an understanding of how to animate human characters using appropriate techniques, software and workflows. You'll aim to produce a solid, versatile sequence demonstrating high level competence in character animation adaptable to games, VFX, or animated feature work.

Motion Graphics 20.00

Credits

20.00

You'll study how to produce effective and creative motion graphics. You'll develop your understanding of animation techniques and how they can be applied to various 2D and 3D designs, using industry standard software. You'll research and create your own motion graphics piece to an industry standard brief.

Stop Motion 20.00

Credits

20.00

You'll study the techniques used in the design and creation of a stop motion animation sequence using industry-standard materials in puppet fabrication, prop & set design and creation, lighting & cameras and digital tools. You'll also look at aspects of filmmaking like narrative ideation, storyboards, performance and cinematography.

Rigging 20.00

Credits

20.00

The rig is never seen by the audience but, for a computer generated character to be convincing, this is a critical aspect that has to work according to the brief. Rigging is a logical process, requiring strong organisation and problem solving skills. You’ll learn to create a rig for a humanoid character and bind the mesh to the rig.

Optional Modules Credits

Plan your showreel (placement) 20.00

Credits

20.00

You'll consider your career objectives in both the short, medium & long term, then focus on your short t

Buckinghamshire New University

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Overview:

Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) is a modern university with a focus on practical and job-related learning. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines. BNU is known for its high student satisfaction rates, excellent student support, and strong employability outcomes.

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Services Offered:

BNU provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Student Success and Support:

This includes career guidance, health and wellbeing services, disability support, library resources, and a multi-faith chaplaincy.

Digital and Technical Services:

BNU offers access to IT facilities, software, and online learning platforms like Blackboard.

Accommodation:

BNU provides on-campus accommodation options at its High Wycombe campus, as well as guidance for finding private rented accommodation.

Financial Support:

BNU offers various financial aid options, including bursaries, scholarships, and hardship funds.

International Student Support:

BNU provides specific support for international students, including visa guidance, travel assistance, and integration programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

BNU offers a vibrant and inclusive campus experience with a strong focus on student engagement. Students can expect:

Active Students' Union:

BNU's Students' Union provides a range of social, cultural, and sporting activities.

Diverse and Inclusive Community:

BNU prides itself on its welcoming and diverse student body.

Modern Facilities:

BNU has modern facilities, including a gym, a human performance center, and a library.

Campus Tours:

BNU offers virtual and in-person campus tours to prospective students.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Student Satisfaction:

BNU consistently ranks highly in student satisfaction surveys.

Excellent Student Support:

BNU is known for its strong student support services.

Strong Employability Outcomes:

BNU graduates have a high rate of employment or further study after graduation.

Industry-Focused Courses:

BNU's courses are designed to equip students with the skills needed for the modern workplace.

Practical and Job-Related Learning:

BNU emphasizes practical learning through simulations and real-world projects.

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Academic Programs:

BNU offers a wide range of academic programs across various schools, including:

• School of Art, Design and Performance
• School of Aviation and Security
• School of Business and Law
• School of Creative and Digital Industries
• School of Engineering and the Built Environment
• School of Health and Social Care Professions
• School of Human and Social Sciences
• School of Nursing and Midwifery
• Missenden Abbey International Hotel and Hospitality School

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Other:

• BNU has a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• BNU is a TEF Silver-awarded institution, recognizing its high quality of teaching and learning.
• BNU has a strong focus on research and knowledge exchange.
• BNU has partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

• BNU has a dedicated alumni network.

• Academic Programs:

  While the context lists the schools within BNU, it does not provide a detailed outline of the key academic programs and strengths of the institution.