Master’s Degree

Program Overview

The Master's Degree in Digital and Visual Communication: Animation, Videogames, and Cinema is a highly professionalizing program that combines theoretical study with practical exercises. It offers specializations in animation, video games, and cinema, while maintaining a multidisciplinary perspective. The program equips students with advanced techniques, industry-specific software, and a comprehensive understanding of the visual media industry, preparing them for successful careers in the creative industries.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Master’s Degree in Digital and Visual Communication: Animation, Videogames, and Cinema is a highly professionalizing program that strikes a balance between theoretical study and practical exercises. It adopts a vertical and horizontal approach: vertical in offering specializations in specific sectors and horizontal in maintaining a multidisciplinary perspective to cultivate open-minded and adaptable professionals. The program acknowledges the interconnectedness of the video game development and animation industries and emphasizes the significance of collaboration and communication between professionals in various sectors. The proliferation of personal computers, game consoles, tablets, and smartphones, coupled with advances in computing power, has fueled the growth of video game development across multiple sectors of visual communication, learning, and entertainment. This, in turn, has created a substantial demand for skilled professionals in advertising, cinema, television, video games, and interactive installations.

Objectives:

The program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of:

• Advanced techniques and principles in 3D graphics, 2D animation, and programming for video game development.
• Art direction and design principles for creating visually appealing and impactful animations, video games, and films.
• The economic and marketing aspects of the visual media industry, enabling students to navigate the business landscape and make informed decisions.
• Research methodologies and advanced analysis techniques for data-driven decision-making and critical evaluation.
• Industry-specific software and technologies, including Photoshop, ZBrush, Maya, 3D Studio Max, Unity3D, Corona, Construct, Adobe Animate, Premiere, After Effects, and Audition.

Outline:

FIRST YEAR - ALL SPECIALIZATIONS

• Research Methodologies (6 ECTS)
• Technical English (10 ECTS)
• Advanced Media Design - Direction for Animated Films (6 ECTS)
• Art Direction Techniques (6 ECTS)
• Localization Kit (6 ECTS)
• Economics and Marketing of Visual Media (6 ECTS)

SECOND YEAR - ANIMATION SPECIALIZATION

• Advanced Character Design and Storyboard Techniques (20 ECTS)
• Advanced 3D Graphics for Animation (20 ECTS)
• Advanced 2D Animation (20 ECTS)

SECOND YEAR - VIDEO GAMES SPECIALIZATION

• Advanced Programming (20 ECTS)
• Advanced 3D Graphics for Video Games (20 ECTS)
• GUI and Advanced 2D Graphics (20 ECTS)

SECOND YEAR - CINEMA SPECIALIZATION

• Advanced Analysis Techniques for Directors of Photography (20 ECTS)
• Advanced Analysis Techniques for VFX Supervisors (20 ECTS)
• Advanced Film Making, Shooting, Editing, and Compositing (20 ECTS)

Assessment:

The assessment methods and criteria for the Master's Degree in Digital and Visual Communication vary depending on the specific modules and specializations. However, the program generally employs a range of assessment methods, including:

• Exams:
Written examinations are used to assess students' knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles.
• Projects:
Practical projects allow students to demonstrate their skills and abilities in applying the knowledge and techniques they have learned.
• Presentations:
Oral presentations provide students with an opportunity to showcase their research findings, design concepts, or creative work.
• Portfolios:
Students may be required to compile portfolios of their work, which are assessed for their technical proficiency, creativity, and overall quality.

Teaching:

The Master's Degree in Digital and Visual Communication is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. These methods include:

• Lectures:
Lectures provide students with the foundational knowledge and theoretical underpinnings of the program.
• Tutorials:
Smaller group tutorials allow students to engage with faculty members on a more personalized level, ask questions, and receive feedback on their work.
• Workshops:
Hands-on workshops provide students with practical experience in using industry-standard software and technologies.
• Guest Lectures:
Guest lectures from industry professionals offer students insights into real-world practices and trends.
• Independent Study:
Students are encouraged to undertake independent study to further explore their interests and develop their skills.

Careers:

Graduates of the Master's Degree in Digital and Visual Communication are well-prepared for a range of careers in the creative industries, including:

• 3D Animator
• 2D Animator
• Video Game Designer
• Game Programmer
• VFX Artist
• Motion Graphics Artist
• Film Director
• Art Director
• Production Designer