3D Animation and Games Development (Top Up)

3D Animation and Games Development (Top Up)

Overview

Studying 3D Animation and Games Development (Top-Up) abroad will create a pathway where students can get various opportunities that will amplify both personal and professional growth.

It will give you industry-relevant experience as well as increased global mobility. You will get to engage in world-class research and projects with advanced technology and facilities.

Objectives

  1. Gain advanced training in technical aspects of 3D animation, 3D modelling, rigging, texturing, and programming.
  2. Enhance proficiency in Autodesk Maya, Blender, Unity, and Unreal Engine.
  3. Develop creative expertise in character design, environmental design, and visual storytelling.
  4. Get ready for advanced roles like 3D artist, character animator, game designer, and VFX specialist.
  5. Foster a proactive approach to promote self-directed learning and independent project work.

Prerequisites

  1. Usually, it requires a diploma or degree in a relevant field, but it is not mandatory.
  2. Often requested to submit a portfolio of previous experience.
  3. Expected to have a basic sound knowledge of relevant software.
  4. Basic understanding of coding, animation, and game design principles.

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures are provided in person and online, as well as through visual presentations and videos.
  2. Workshops and practical labs focussing on hands-on learning.
  3. Seminars and tutorials that offer in-depth discussion.
  4. Guest lectures and industry talks with professionals.

Modules

  1. Advanced 3D modelling
  2. 3D Animation Techniques
  3. Game design and mechanics
  4. Game Development Project
  5. Texturing, Lighting, and Rendering
  6. Portfolio Development and Professional Practice
  7. Independent Research Project/Dissertation

Assessment Methods

  1. Portfolio Assessment
  2. Projects
  3. Presentations
  4. Written reports and reflective journals

Course Duration

It typically takes one year if you study full-time. Those who have already completed a relevant foundation degree can pursue this in their final year. Some universities offer part-time degrees, which can take around two years.

Facilities

  1. 3D Animation and Game Development Studios
  2. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Labs
  3. Motion Capture Studio
  4. Render Farm
  5. Game Development Labs
  6. Green Screen Studios
  7. Editing and post-production suites

Career Pathways

This particular degree provides an ample range of opportunities in the animation, video games, film, and digital media industries. The skills students gain in this course are in high demand across various industries. You could be:

  1. 3D Animator
  2. Game Designer
  3. 3D Modeller
  4. Game Developer
  5. Visual Effects (VFX) Artist
  6. Technical animator/rigger
  7. Character Designer
  8. Game Programmer
  9. Motion Graphics Designer

Fees and Fundings

The tuition fees may vary depending on the university, country, and if you are an international student or a local student. For the UK, the fee range for an international student is between £12,000 and £18,000 a year.

Entry Requirements

  1. Foundation degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) in related fields.
  2. English Language Proficiency
  3. Professional Experience (Optional)
  4. Interview (Optional)

Portfolio (Optional)

Field Work and Internships

By pursuing this degree, you can be involved in numerous activities, including:

  1. Industry Placement/Internship
  2. Collaborative projects
  3. Field trips and industry visits
  4. Real-World Projects
  5. Portfolio Development
  6. Professional Mentoring
  7. Guest lectures and workshops

Certifications

While the degree itself is considered a prestigious qualification, obtaining additional relevant degrees can make your resume look more attractive. Here are some key certificates that will look good along with this degree.

  1. Autodesk Certified Professional
  2. Unity Certified Developer
  3. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)
  4. NVIDIA Certified Developer

Intakes

The intake can vary by country and institution. In the UK, the primary intake is September, and the secondary intake is January, whereas in the USA, it is August and January consecutively.

Student Testimony

“Do you have a passion for drawing, creating characters, and story telling? Are you curious about how to create an animation? Do you dream of working on the next big, animated movie or game? If you’ve said yes to any of those questions, you may be interested in studying BA (Hons) Animation and Games Art here at the University of Sunderland.” [Courtney Welsh from the University of Sunderland]

Frequently asked questions

There are several types of degrees. Some of them are:

  1. B.Sc. in multimedia, animation, and graphics
  2. B.Sc. in 3D Animation Film Making
  3. B.Sc. in VFX Film Making
  4. B.Sc. in Animation and Film Making.