COURSE CURRICULUM

The International Foundation in Art, Design, and Media is designed to prepare students for undergraduate study by developing essential academic and practical skills. Throughout the foundation year, students build their English language proficiency and research capabilities in the module English for Academic Purposes, Research and Study Skills. They also gain hands-on experience exploring different creative methods through Exploring Practices, Process, Materials and Techniques. Investigating Specialist Practice allows students to focus on areas of personal interest, while the Final Major Project encourages independent work that demonstrates their readiness for degree-level study. Upon successful completion, students progress into the Animation degree, which spans three years of focused creative and technical development. In the first year, core modules such as Animation: Contexts and Concepts introduce students to the history and theory of animation, while Digital Skills and Drawing for Animation equip them with essential technical and artistic tools. Animation Principles covers the fundamentals of movement and storytelling within animation. The second year builds on this foundation with modules like Animated Cultures, which explores contemporary animation practices globally, and Advanced Digital Techniques, which develops more sophisticated production skills. Students undertake creative projects including Short Film and Research and Concept, where they develop and produce original work. Opportunities for study abroad enrich the learning experience, allowing students to engage with diverse animation cultures and advanced techniques in international settings. The final year prepares students for professional practice, with Destinations helping them explore career pathways, and Proposal and Pitch focusing on effective project presentation and communication skills. The Final Film module enables students to produce a significant body of creative work, showcasing their skills and vision. The Dissertation encourages critical research, grounding their creative practice in academic inquiry. This integrated course equips students with a strong blend of creative, technical, and analytical abilities, preparing them for successful careers in the evolving field of animation.