Animation (with Integrated Foundation Year)

OVERVIEW

The BA (Hons) Animation course at Norwich University of the Arts (Norwich) is designed to inspire and capture the imagination of its students, balancing fundamental principles with cutting edge techniques. We embrace creativity in all aspects of the course and aim for outcomes with artistry and storytelling at their core which explore innovative methods of moving image creation and inspire new audiences.

INTEGRATED FOUNDATION (YEAR 0)

This course includes an integrated foundation year (year 0), which promotes developing practical, technical and creative skills and confidence. Building on your prior experience, you will be introduced to some of our workshops to assist your skill development, with an increasing emphasis on professional standards and independent study. The course places emphasis on your personal commitment to study, while supporting you in your progression.

KEY FEATURES

• Share the first-year curriculum with BA (Hons) Animation and Visual Effects, allowing you to study the fundamental skills of thinking and working in animation and visual effects and provide students with a solid grounding in the basics needed for both disciplines

• Develop an understanding of visual/film language components such as narrative structure, design, colour and composition

• Work in relation to sustainability, diversity and global contexts; question how the work you create, and the methods you use, can be used to make a difference to others

• Progress towards project outcomes through a process of conceptualisation, experimentation and iteration, with each stage refining communication, meaning and resolve

• Learn the importance of collaborative working, presenting/pitching, time/project management, communication skills, responding to creative briefs, academic writing, and giving and receiving feedback

• Attend guest lectures and masterclasses, portfolio reviews, and participate in internal/external conferences, exhibitions and careers events, as appropriate

• Develop the observation, reflection, criticality, emotional intelligence, organisation and autonomy required of a contemporary artist together with an aptitude for problem solving

• Participate in a studio culture which facilitates peer-learning and helps build working relationships in support of collaborative practice

• From Year 2, specialise in either 2D (computer-generated imagery) or stop motion

YOUR FUTURE

In your final year, you will produce a personal showcase of your specialist skills and an original animated film, getting you career-ready after university.

BA (Hons) Animation prepares you to join Norwich graduates who have already gone on to work at Lupus Films, Blue Zoo, Meantime Media, Cartoon Saloon and more.

It also prepares you with a transferable skillset that supports your career beyond the existing creative industries – where team working, collaboration, problem solving, an ability to research, and project manage are always highly desirable.

OUR STUDENTS’ WORK

Explore our online showreel – celebrating the very best Norwich University of the Arts graduate work. Scroll each reel to explore at nuagradshowcase.com

Course Modules

You can find more information about the content of the BA (Hons) Animation (with Integrated Foundation Year) course at https://norwichuni.ac.uk/4-year-degrees/

The University assesses you through the coursework you produce as you complete each unit. Each unit will require you to present a portfolio of work which may include finished pieces of work, written work, your research, and a reflective journal which allows you to evaluate your learning and highlight your strengths and areas for further development. You can find out more information about our assessment methods at https://norwichuni.ac.uk/ba-hons-animation/