COURSE CURRICULUM

The Illustration and Animation BA (Hons) degree with a foundation year at London Metropolitan University is structured to develop students’ creative, technical, and professional skills over four years. In Year 0, students complete foundational modules including Critical and Contextual Studies: Foundation, Critical Creative Practice, Project, and Techniques, which introduce essential skills in visual communication, creative thinking, and practical studio work. This year provides a broad base for students to explore artistic approaches and develop confidence in their creative abilities. In Year 1, the program builds on this foundation with modules such as Critical and Contextual Studies 1, Message and Meaning, Skills and Principles, and Work Ready Level 4, helping students to refine their understanding of visual communication and establish core technical and conceptual skills. Year 2 deepens these abilities through Critical and Contextual Studies 2, Skills and Enquiry, Voice and Vision, and Work Ready Level 5, encouraging independent thinking, experimentation, and applied practice in illustration and animation. In Year 3, students consolidate their learning through Critical and Contextual Studies 3: Dissertation, the Major Project in Illustration and Animation, Skills and Innovation, and Work Ready Level 6. This final year emphasizes independent research, professional practice, portfolio development, and preparation for careers in creative industries. Across all four years, the program integrates theory, practice, and professional engagement, ensuring graduates leave with a strong portfolio, technical expertise, and the confidence to pursue careers as illustrators, animators, and creative professionals in media, entertainment, and related fields.