Kingston School of Art's MA Animation program emphasizes interdisciplinary moving image production, equipping students with skills in 2D/3D animation, virtual/augmented reality, and critical making. Through research-based practice, students develop their individual styles and contribute to the evolution of animation. Graduates pursue careers in animation, motion graphics, and visual effects, as well as teaching and research.

It focuses on equipping students with the skills and attributes necessary to thrive in a dynamic professional environment characterized by rapid cultural and technological advancements. This program nurtures the development of individual practice grounded in a culture that values research and collaboration. Research is considered an integral part of critical making, encouraging experimentation with physical, digital, and virtual tools and technologies, embracing a diverse range of multidisciplinary approaches. Through a combination of tutorials, lectures, seminars, workshops, and research projects, students acquire the critical tools, knowledge, and confidence to contribute to the evolution of the subject and its practice. All students have the opportunity to undertake an extended research project, typically culminating in the creation of a film.

Outline:

Year 1

• Core Modules:
The focus is on introducing new material-based media and digital approaches to animation practice, enabling students to critically challenge their existing animation practice.
• Reading: Critical Positions (30 credits): This module introduces ways of theorizing contemporary and historical design, enabling students to position their practice within broader professional, social, and political contexts and an interdisciplinary framework.
It explores key current issues in design and facilitates participation in urgent critical debates, developing a theoretical and conceptual vocabulary to position their practice. Students consider audience engagement, communication, and platform selection to create meaningful works that communicate with empathy, present alternative realities, and tell compelling stories.
• Studio: Extended Research Project for Animation (60 credits): This module fosters individual and situated animation practice through moving image production, direction, and practice-based research.
Students are given the agency to initiate and complete their self-directed and research projects, either individually or through collaboration.

Optional Placement Year

• Professional Placement (120 credits): This module provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a relevant work environment, developing key employability skills and subject-specific professional skills.

Assessment:

Assessment typically comprises exams, practical components (presentations, performances), and coursework (essays, reports, self-assessments, portfolios, dissertations). Feedback on assessments is typically provided within 20 working days.

Teaching:

Students benefit from a diverse array of learning and teaching approaches, including brief-led project work, workshops encouraging creative experimentation and individual critical reflection, and peer-led learning.

Careers:

Graduates from the Illustration Animation Department are active in the animation industry worldwide. They work as directors for animation, motion graphics, adverts, pop promos, and instructional educational films, engaging diverse audiences. They also establish their own animation studios and work in visual effects houses like Framestore and Moving Picture Company.

• The university offers dedicated graduate facilities, including the Graduate Centre with IT facilities, seminar rooms, and social spaces.

Home 2025/26 MA full time £12,400 MA part time £6,820 International 2025/26 MA full time £21,800 MA part time £11,990 Home 2024/25 MA full time £11,900 MA part time £6,545 International 2024/25 MA full time £20,900 MA part time £11,495

Kingston University

Overview:

Kingston University London is a UK-based university recognized for its high-quality teaching and student experience. It features in the QS World University Rankings league table of the world's top universities.

Services Offered:

Kingston University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Guidance and resources for academic success.

Career Services:

Support in finding internships, jobs, and career development.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.

Wellbeing Services:

Mental health support, counseling, and other resources.

International Student Support:

Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.

Library and Learning Resources:

Extensive library facilities and online learning resources.

Student Union:

A vibrant student union with clubs, societies, and social events.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Kingston University provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience. Students can expect:

Active Student Union:

Opportunities to join clubs, societies, and participate in social events.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively campus environment with a range of activities and events.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and supportive community of students and staff.

Location Advantages:

Located in Kingston upon Thames, a historic town with excellent transport links to London.

Key Reasons to Study There:

TEF Gold Rating:

Recognized for its high-quality teaching and outstanding student experience.

Future Skills Focus:

Emphasis on developing future-ready skills through embedded modules in all undergraduate courses.

Strong Industry Links:

Close connections with businesses and industries, providing opportunities for internships and career development.

Diverse and Inclusive Environment:

Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Academic Programs:

Undergraduate Study:

A wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines.

Postgraduate Study:

Master's and doctoral programs in various fields.

Research:

Active research programs with a focus on areas like healthcare, technology, and the arts.

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships:

Opportunities to combine work and study through apprenticeships.