COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) Visual Effects and Motion Graphics programme at Teesside University provides students with comprehensive training in visual effects production, motion graphics, and digital content creation while developing the creative and technical skills required by the screen industries. In the first year, students establish a strong foundation through modules in Animation Principles, CG Essentials, Technical Animation, and Visual Development for the Moving Image. They learn 2D and 3D animation techniques, asset creation, texturing, lighting, rendering, character rigging, motion capture, visual effects simulation, cinematography, storyboarding, and digital compositing. During the second year, students deepen their expertise through Effects and Motion Graphics, Moviola, Professional Practice and Ethical AI Assisted Creativity, and Visual Effects Pipeline. They explore destruction effects, rigid body dynamics, particle systems, fluid simulations, motion design, compositing techniques, and the integration of live action with computer-generated imagery. Students also work collaboratively on industry-style projects and examine the responsible use of artificial intelligence in creative industries while developing their professional identity and online presence. An optional work placement year allows students to gain valuable industry experience, enhance technical and transferable skills, and improve their career prospects. In the final year, students complete an AVFX Project, a major individual project related to their chosen specialism and career goals, alongside Creative Industry Briefs that simulate professional industry scenarios and workflows. They also participate in Kino, a collaborative module where students work as a production team to create a short film or visual effects sequence, mirroring real industry pipelines. Throughout the programme, students develop expertise in visual effects, motion graphics, teamwork, and project management while building a professional portfolio and showreel that demonstrate their creative and technical abilities. The course prepares graduates for careers in visual effects, motion graphics, film, television, advertising, and digital media by combining artistic creativity with industry-focused practical experience and professional development.