COURSE CURRICULUM

The Concept Art programme at Teesside University provides students with the artistic, technical, and professional skills required for careers in games, animation, film, and illustration. In the first year, students develop a strong foundation through modules in Concept Art Pre-Production, Drawing Fundamentals, History of Illustration, and Introduction to Digital Image Techniques. They learn concept design processes, idea generation, problem-solving, figure and observational drawing, traditional and digital art techniques, visual research methods, and the use of digital painting and 3D modelling software. During the second year, students advance their skills through modules in Digital Image Techniques, Green Light, Narrative Art, and Practice Based Research. They explore advanced digital painting, combine 2D and 3D workflows, develop storytelling abilities through storyboards and sequential art, work collaboratively on concept art projects, and strengthen their research skills to create original and visually engaging designs. Students also have the opportunity to undertake an optional work placement year, gaining valuable industry experience and developing professional and transferable skills that enhance employability. In the final year, students complete a major Concept Art Project, allowing them to plan and execute a large-scale portfolio project aligned with their chosen specialism and career goals. They also undertake Industry Practice, working on industry-inspired briefs and advanced digital techniques, and Professional Practice and Responsible Use of AI in the Creative Industries, where they explore career pathways, portfolio development, industry expectations, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in creative work. Throughout the programme, students develop creativity, technical proficiency, research skills, and professional practice while building a high-quality portfolio that reflects industry standards. The course prepares graduates for careers in concept art, games, animation, film, television, illustration, and related creative industries by combining artistic development with practical and industry-focused learning experiences.