Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Animation MA program at the Belfast School of Art cultivates professional animators through immersive storytelling and advanced techniques. Focusing on narrative, character, and performance, the program equips graduates for diverse career paths in the animation industry, including TV animation, feature films, and visual effects. With a collaborative learning environment and strong industry connections, the program fosters innovation and employability in the rapidly evolving animation field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Summary:
- The Animation MA program at the Belfast School of Art is designed to cultivate professional animators through immersive storytelling and advanced animation techniques.
- The program focuses on three core components of animated production: narrative, character, and performance.
- Students will refine their skills in narrative construction, character development, animation, and advanced production techniques while delving into the unique possibilities and challenges computer animation presents in storytelling.
Objectives:
- To produce graduates who are highly skilled in animation production and equipped for diverse career paths in the industry.
- To promote innovative storytelling through animation by fostering strong narrative construction and character development skills.
- To advance professional practice in animation through the use of advanced production techniques and a deep understanding of computer animation principles.
Outline:
Program Content:
- The program delves into the three central aspects of animation: narrative, character, and performance.
- Students will extensively explore each area through dedicated modules and projects, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of animation production as a whole.
Structure:
- The program is offered on a part-time basis, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments.
- Semester One: focuses on animation principles, timing, and experimental design.
- Semester Two: introduces design research, animation production, and animation pipelines.
- Semester Three: culminates in a portfolio project where students showcase their individual strengths and areas of specialization.
Course Schedule:
- Specific course schedules are determined each semester and provided to students.
- Attendance requirements will be outlined for each module.
Individual Modules:
- Semester One:
- Design Research and Development: This module equips students with research skills while exploring contemporary and theoretical frameworks relevant to animation, visual effects, and creative industries.
- Semester Two:
- Animation Production: This module immerses students in professional animation production pipelines, enabling them to develop advanced skills in animation, compositing, and editing.
- Experimental Design: This module encourages students to explore diverse design approaches and pre-visualization techniques to refine their project development and visualization skills.
- Semester Three:
- Portfolio Project: This culminating project allows students to solidify their individual expression and demonstrate their mastery of animation production while tailoring their work to specific career aspirations.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- The program utilizes a combination of assessment methods, including:
- coursework
- written assignments
- presentations
- portfolio projects
- practical demonstrations
- final examinations
Assessment Criteria:
- Each module will have specific assessment criteria outlined in the module handbook.
- The criteria typically align with the learning outcomes of the module and assess students' knowledge, understanding, and application of the acquired skills.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- lectures
- seminars
- workshops
- tutorials
- individual supervision
- group projects
- industry visits
- guest lectures
Faculty:
- The program benefits from instructors with extensive academic and professional experience in animation, including professors, readers, senior lecturers, and lecturers.
- Many faculty members hold industry connections and bring practical, real-world insights to the classroom.
Unique Approaches:
- The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students actively participate in discussions, critiques, and group projects.
- Emphasis is placed on practical application of knowledge and skills through individual projects and industry engagement.
Careers:
Career Options:
- Graduates of the program are equipped for diverse career paths in the animation industry, including:
- TV animation
- feature film animation
- games animation
- visual effects
- motion graphics
- advertising
- AR/VR development
Employability Support:
- The program offers dedicated careers and employability support services to assist students in their job search and professional development.
- Opportunities for internships and placements within the animation industry are fostered through strong industry connections.
- Alumni of the program have successfully found employment in renowned animation studios such as Sixteen South, Paper Owl Films, and Jam Media.
Other:
- The program is designed to support lifelong learning and professional development for individuals within the rapidly evolving animation field.
- Applicants with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply, offering a rich learning environment for all students.
- The program welcomes applicants with experience in animation as well as those seeking a career transition and encourages them to demonstrate their passion and commitment to the field.
- The program fee may vary depending on the student's status as a UK/EU or international student.
The price of your overall programme will be determined by the number of credit points that you initiate in the relevant academic year. For modules commenced in the academic year 2024/25, the following fees apply: Fees Credit Points NI/ROI/GB Cost International Cost Credit Points 5 £194.45 £474.70 Credit Points 10 £388.90 £949.40 Credit Points 15 £583.35 £1,424.10 Credit Points 20 £777.80 £1,898.80 Credit Points 30 £1,166.70 £2,848.20 Credit Points 60 £2,333.40 £5,696.40 Credit Points 120 £4,666.80 £11,392.80 Credit Points 180 £7000.20 £17,089.20 NB: A standard full-time PGCert is equivalent to 60 credit points per year. A standard full-time PGDip is equivalent to 120 credit points per year. More information can be found in the Visas and Immigration section. Additional mandatory costs Students should be aware that as the work is self-directed costs may and are likely to be incurred due to the specific material or research needs of that student’s development. Field trips may incur additional costs. It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees. Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses. Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
Ulster University
Overview:
Ulster University is a public university in Northern Ireland with campuses in Belfast, Coleraine, Derry~Londonderry, and a dedicated Sports Village. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and research opportunities. The university is known for its commitment to research and innovation, ranking in the top 10% of UK universities for research impact.
Services Offered:
Ulster University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus accommodation options are available at all campuses.Sports Services:
The university boasts a dedicated Sports Village with various facilities and memberships.Student Union:
The Ulster University Students' Union (UUSU) offers a variety of support services and social activities.Student Wellbeing:
The university provides support services for student mental health and well-being.Digital Services:
Students have access to online resources and services through the university portal.Library Services:
The university library offers a wide range of resources and support for learning, teaching, and research.Employability and Careers Advice:
The university provides guidance and support for students seeking employment opportunities.Global Partnerships:
The university offers opportunities for international students and partnerships with other institutions.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Ulster University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:
Strong sense of community:
Each campus fosters a welcoming and supportive environment.Active student life:
UUSU organizes various social events, clubs, and societies.Access to facilities:
Students have access to modern facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and accommodation.Opportunities for personal development:
The university offers various programs and activities to enhance students' skills and well-being.Key Reasons to Study There:
High-quality education:
Ulster University offers a wide range of programs taught by experienced academics.Strong research focus:
The university is known for its commitment to research and innovation.Vibrant campus life:
Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience.Excellent support services:
The university provides comprehensive support services for students' academic and personal needs.Career-focused approach:
The university emphasizes employability and provides career guidance to students.Academic Programs:
Ulster University offers a wide range of academic programs across various faculties, including:
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Life and Health Sciences
Ulster University Business School
The university is particularly strong in areas such as:
Nursing and Healthcare
Business and Management
Engineering and Technology
Arts and Humanities
Other:
- The university has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
- Ulster University is registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.
- The university has a dedicated website for alumni and supporters.
- The university offers a range of online courses and resources.
Entry Requirements:
Domestic Students (EU and Home):
- A good honours degree (2:2 or above) in Animation, Computer Science, Engineering, Design, Visual Arts, or a cognate subject from a UK or Irish university.
- Applicants may be interviewed and required to present a portfolio and/or showreel, as well as a proposal demonstrating their ability to meet the intellectual and practical demands of the program.
- Applications from diverse backgrounds are welcomed, but applicants with a significant change in discipline will need to provide a rationale and evidence of relevant knowledge, skills, and experience.
International Students (Outside EU):
- The above requirements also apply to international students.
- In addition, international students must meet the minimum English language requirements, which are:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5.
- Trinity ISE: Pass at level III (also meets Tier 4 visa requirements).
- Ulster University recognizes other English language tests with comparable IELTS scores.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International students must meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements listed above.
- This ensures they have the necessary language skills to participate effectively in classes and coursework.
Additional Notes:
- Applicants with relevant professional experience but lacking recent higher-level academic qualifications are encouraged to apply.
- The program will consider Accreditation for Prior Learning (APL) as evidence of exceptional ability.