COURSE CURRICULUM

The Computer Arts degree at Abertay University delivers a comprehensive and creative curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in digital design, animation, and interactive media. In Year 1, students are introduced to the foundational skills of computer arts through six core modules. These include Real-time Applications, Elementary Animation, Life and Observational Drawing, Graphic Art, and 3D Visualisation. These modules focus on building practical and creative abilities across both traditional and digital media. Abertay 101 supports students in developing essential academic skills and adapting to university life.In Year 2, students begin to refine their skills and apply them to broader creative contexts. The core module in semester two, Media Production, introduces students to collaborative work and professional workflows, helping them understand the production pipeline in creative industries. This year builds on technical ability while fostering problem-solving and teamwork skills.Year 3 is focused on deeper critical engagement and the development of professional standards. Students take two core modules: Critical Studies, which examines cultural, theoretical, and historical contexts of digital art, and Professional Project, where students create a substantial piece of work that reflects industry expectations. This stage allows for creative freedom while reinforcing discipline-specific knowledge and research skills.In the final year, students concentrate on specialisation, portfolio building, and career preparation. Core modules include Pre-production Research and Development, Portfolio and Industry Awareness, and the Honours Project. These modules support students in developing a polished body of work, backed by research and tailored to their chosen career path. Industry engagement and reflective practice are central, ensuring graduates are both creatively and professionally equipped.By the end of the degree, students will have gained robust artistic and technical skills, a strong portfolio, and valuable industry insights, making them well-prepared for roles in animation, game art, visual development, or other digital design careers.