BSc (Hons) 3D Animation and Visual Effects Bachelor's degree at De Montfort University

Introduction to 3D asset design, Animation and Visual Effects. Provides broad introductory experience to generation of 3D content for media outputs. Combines theory and practice in creation, animation, presentation and evaluation of 3D assets when composited into footage plates.

Introduces core principles and techniques of animation used in major animation productions. Covers essential animation principles with focus on practical exercises and theoretical understanding. Includes hands-on practice with rigs and assets and theoretical exploration of animation principles.

Introduction to foundational production techniques used in creative industries with focus on camera operation, cinematography, and composition. Students form small production teams to develop, shoot, and produce a narrative short film, integrating 3D assets and animation into filmed material using compositing, editing and production tools.

Immerses students in professional media industry practices through practical creative brief. Explores industry research, consumer insight, and role of media agencies. Students develop commercial content ideas from initial concepts to campaign design, content production, and creative execution with critical reflection on creative process.

Develops skills acquired during 3D Modelling and Compositing, advancing applications of 3D techniques to include natural forms and soft-surface character design. Examines design and development processes behind 3D creature/character design with considerations for pipelines, posing, lighting and rendering.

Introduces essential techniques of character rigging, body mechanics, and motion capture (Mocap) for 3D animation. Covers creation of fully rigged characters, joint systems, weight distribution, and articulation for humanoid and non-humanoid characters. Explores motion capture techniques, integrating Mocap data into rigs for realistic movement.

Explores creation of digitally designed environments for narrative-driven films with focus on digital set-extension, 3D environment design, and compositing techniques. Students create sequences in locations too remote, fantastical, or otherwise un-filmable. Examines history of matte-painting and set extension and their impact on contemporary filmmaking.

Enhances employability by introducing media students to enterprise practices with essential business and entrepreneurial skills. Students learn to leverage media expertise to address identified gaps in industry market. Explores business models for early-career entrepreneurs and strategies for positioning themselves in competitive creative sector.

Develops skills acquired across programme, advancing 3D techniques by combining advanced 3D simulations and dynamics with compositing workflows. Explores generation of 3D simulation content and various dynamics such as collision, fluids and pyro. Students plan, execute and implement a simulation system into live action footage plates.

Focuses on advanced motion capture (Mocap) and animation techniques used to create compelling character performances with emphasis on choreography, facial animation, and complex movement. Covers technical aspects of Mocap and artistic principles to enhance emotional and narrative impact of performance.

Explores and experiments with core practices of virtual production, focusing on practical application within creative production setting. Students engage with fully functional virtual production studio to populate environments with assets and adjust elements such as lighting and camera placement. Emphasises hands-on learning and collaborative work.

Requires research, planning, development, and creation of practical artefact within area of media production aligned with vocational interests such as cinematography, VFX, radio production, social media, or web design. Develops advanced research and academic writing skills. Practical artefact supports career progression and professional portfolio.