MSc Computer Animation and Visual Effects

Program Overview

The MSc Computer Animation & Visual Effects program at Bournemouth University equips students with technical skills and knowledge to excel in the computer animation, visual effects, and gaming industries. Through a combination of theory and practical application, students learn to develop tools and techniques using C++, shaders, and CGI software. The program culminates in a Master's project that showcases students' abilities to industry professionals and potential employers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc program aims to equip students with the technical skills and knowledge necessary to become future Technical Directors, Artists, or Research and Development Engineers within the computer animation and games sectors. The program focuses on developing technical, mathematical, and algorithmic skills to create tools for animation and game production.

Outline:

The program is structured into four terms, each lasting ten weeks. The first three terms constitute the Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip), and the final term focuses on the Master's component.

Core Units:

• Simulation and Rendering: This unit covers simulation elements like fluid, smoke, and FEA.
It also includes writing shaders using Renderman and an in-depth look at different rendering engines. It utilizes Modern C++ and OpenGL for real-time graphics, along with the NCCA Graphics Library ngl.
• CGI Tools: This unit introduces the main software tools used in the program, Maya and Houdini.
It also covers artistic concepts like composition and cinematography.
• CGI Techniques: This unit delves deeper into the algorithms and techniques behind computer animation, introducing the mathematical and algorithmic concepts behind computer graphics and animation.
• Pipeline and Technical Direction: This unit helps students define the technological strategy for an animation project or pipeline by defining and developing the tools and key development procedures required for project completion.
• Group Project: Students from all three postgraduate courses (MA3D, MA Digital Effects) collaborate to present a concept for a short animated piece.
• Master's Project: The focus of the fourth term is on completing the Master's component.
This can be a standalone project or the continuation and conclusion of another project. It includes a written thesis of approximately 5000 words and culminates in a computer animation show, showcasing student work to industry professionals and potential employers.

Assessment:

Details of the assessment methods and contact hours for each unit are available in the program specification.

Teaching:

The course is taught by a range of staff with relevant expertise and knowledge, including senior academic staff, qualified professional practitioners, demonstrators, technicians, and research students. Students also benefit from regular guest lectures from industry professionals.

Careers:

The program is well-regarded within the industry, and graduates have excellent employment prospects. Most graduates find employment as technical directors or R&D developers in the film industry, with some also finding roles in computer games companies.

Example Roles and Employers:

• Technical Directors
• R&D Developers
• Artists
• Moving Picture Company (MPC)
• Double Negative
• Framestore CFC
• Cinesite
• BBC

Industries Worked In:

• TV
• Films
• Gaming
• Computer Animation

Further Study:

Students can pursue doctoral programs after completing their Master's degree.

Other:

• The program is industry-recognised by ScreenSkills, the industry-led skills body for the UK's screen-based industries, and carries the ScreenSkills Select quality-mark.
• The NCCA is ranked as the UK's top animation school, second in Europe, and third internationally (Animation Career Review 2023 International Animation School Rankings).
• Bournemouth University is one of a small number of institutions worldwide granted Houdini Certified School status by Side Effects Software.
• Students have the option to undertake a three-month placement during the Master's Portfolio unit, providing an opportunity to apply their acquired knowledge and skills in the workplace.
• The program is designed for graduates from a technical background wishing to expand their knowledge into the fields of Computer Animation, Visual Effects, or Games.
• The program emphasizes collaborative work and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• A strong knowledge of object-oriented programming is preferred.
• Work experience within the field is considered an advantage.

• For September 2024:
> £9,500 (UK, ROI & CI) > £17,500 (Int'l)
• Fee regions explained:
UK: United Kingdom ROI: Republic of Ireland CI: Channel Islands & Isle of Man Int'l: International Understanding your tuition fee status.
• Scholarships
• Scholarships rewarding academic achievement available from £2,000.
Find out more.
• Eligible for a BAFTA Scholarship, more details here.