Program Overview

MA Visual Effects for Film and Television

The MA Visual Effects for Film and Television is a one-year full-time program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the film and television industry. The program focuses on the craft of visual effects, preparing students for a career in this field.

Overview

The program is offered by the School of Arts and Creative Technologies and is recognized by ScreenSkills, the industry-led skills body for the UK's screen-based industries. The course carries the ScreenSkills Select quality-mark, indicating that it is well-suited to prepare students for a career in the screen industries.

Course Content

The program consists of two semesters and a summer semester. In Semester 1, students take two core modules, including Work Placement I, and one option module. In Semester 2, students take three core modules, including Work Placement II. The summer semester is dedicated to a 60-credit individual project.

Core Modules

• Visual Effects I
• Visual Effects II
• Work Placement I
• Work Placement II
• Group Projects
• Individual Project

Option Modules

Students also study one option module in Semester 1, with examples including:

• Digital Cinematography I
• Editing I
• Grading, Effects and Finishing
• Introduction to AI Techniques in Creative Practice

Fees and Funding

Annual Tuition Fees for 2026/27

• UK (home): £13,900 (full-time, 1 year)
• International and EU: £32,900 (full-time, 1 year)

Funding Information

• UK government Masters loans
• Funding for UK students
• Funding for international students
• Chevening Scholarships: Providing one year of fully-funded postgraduate study in the UK for international students.
• School scholarship information: Scholarships, awards, and bursaries for students.

Teaching and Assessment

The program involves a range of teaching styles and methods, including detailed theoretical exploration, extensive practical work, and real-world problem-based experiences. Students have access to industry-standard facilities and equipment, including camera systems, lighting, grips, and sound equipment.

Assessment and Feedback

Assessment varies depending on the module and includes:

• In-class tests
• In-class pitch sessions
• Presentations
• Essays and reflective reports
• Business plans or grant applications
• Group project work
• A 4,500-6,000 word project dissertation that may include practical work and/or the creation of a short film focused on VFX work.

Careers and Skills

The program prepares students for a wide range of creative and technical roles across industries, including:

• VFX Artist
• Compositor
• Lighting and Rendering Artist
• 3D Modeller or Texture Artist
• Motion Graphics Designer
• AR/VR Content Developer
• Post-Production Supervisor or Producer
• Architectural Visualiser
• Creative Content Producer
• Projection Mapping Artist

Entry Requirements

• Undergraduate degree: 2:2 or equivalent, and evidence of professional experience or a commitment to filmmaking. Applicants may also be required to attend an interview.
• Other international qualifications: Equivalent qualifications from your country.
• English language: If English isn't your first language, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability, with minimum requirements for various qualifications listed.

Additional Requirements

• A sample of your creative work must be submitted with your application.

The MA Visual Effects for Film and Television at the University of York is designed to provide students with the advanced skills and knowledge required to succeed in the film and television industry, with a focus on visual effects. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum, industry-standard facilities, and opportunities for professional development, making it an ideal choice for those looking to pursue a career in this field.