BA (Hons) Animation

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Animation program at Leeds Arts University provides an immersive and comprehensive undergraduate experience for individuals passionate about the art and craft of animation. This program is meticulously designed to equip students with a strong foundation in animation principles, techniques, and storytelling across a diverse range of styles and mediums, including 2D, 3D, stop-motion, and experimental animation. It emphasizes the development of strong drawing skills, character design, visual storytelling, timing, and movement, alongside proficiency in industry-standard software and technologies. Students are encouraged to explore their individual creative voices and develop a unique animation style while gaining a thorough understanding of the animation production pipeline. The program fosters a collaborative and experimental learning environment, preparing graduates for a wide array of roles within the dynamic and evolving animation industry. Students will develop a substantial portfolio of animated work that showcases their skills and creative vision.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Animation program at Leeds Arts University is structured to provide a comprehensive and progressive understanding of animation. It typically encompasses core modules that delve into animation principles, character design, storyboarding, 2D animation techniques (traditional and digital), 3D animation techniques (modeling, rigging, animation), stop-motion animation, visual development, sound design for animation, and the animation production pipeline. A strong emphasis is placed on developing strong drawing and observational skills as foundational elements for effective animation. Students will engage with industry-standard software such as Toon Boom Harmony, Maya, Dragonframe, and Adobe Creative Suite. The curriculum often incorporates project-based learning, allowing students to work individually and collaboratively on animated shorts and sequences, applying the techniques and principles learned in class. Critical analysis of animation history and contemporary trends is integrated throughout the program to provide a robust intellectual framework for creative practice. Students are also encouraged to explore experimental animation techniques and to develop their own unique approaches to the medium.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Animation program at Leeds Arts University encourages a research-informed approach to creative practice, prompting students to explore the theoretical, historical, and technical aspects of animation. Research within the program often involves investigating different animation techniques, visual storytelling methods, character archetypes, and the cultural impact of animation across various media. Students are supported in developing their own research questions and using their animation projects as a form of inquiry. This might involve experimenting with different animation styles to convey specific narratives, analyzing the evolution of character design in animation history, or exploring the relationship between sound and image in animated storytelling. Practice-based research is central, with students using their developing animated projects as a means of generating new knowledge and understanding. The program fosters critical reflection on the creative process and encourages students to articulate their artistic choices through research and analysis.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a vital component of the BA (Hons) Animation program at Leeds Arts University, providing students with invaluable connections to the professional animation industry. The university actively fosters relationships with animation studios, production companies, game developers, and other relevant creative industries. Students benefit from opportunities to participate in industry-led workshops, masterclasses with renowned animators, portfolio reviews with professionals, and potential internships or work placements. Guest lectures from leading animation professionals offer valuable insights into current industry trends, workflows, and career pathways. The program often facilitates collaborative projects with external organizations, allowing students to gain real-world experience and build their professional networks. The annual graduate show serves as a crucial platform for students to showcase their animated films and portfolios to potential employers and make connections within the industry. The university's dedicated careers service provides ongoing support in preparing portfolios, developing professional skills, and navigating the job market.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Animation program at Leeds Arts University incorporates a global perspective by examining the diverse styles, techniques, and cultural influences within international animation. The curriculum often explores animation traditions from around the world, analyzing different approaches to storytelling, character design, and visual aesthetics. Students may study the work of international animators and studios, and consider the global market for animated content across film, television, games, and online platforms. The program encourages students to be aware of different cultural contexts and to develop animated content that can resonate with diverse audiences. The presence of international students and faculty within the university fosters a rich and cross-cultural learning environment, promoting the exchange of global perspectives and ideas within the field of animation. Students are encouraged to consider the global reach of their work and to develop a portfolio that demonstrates an understanding of international animation trends and possibilities, preparing them for careers in a globalized creative industry.