Course overview
As well as giving you professional skills in key areas of the visual effects post-production pipeline such as previsualisation, modelling, rigging, scripting, tracking, technical animation, effects animation, lighting, look development and compositing, this course enables you to explore your own specialism in greater depth. Gain experience of the wider pre-production and production pipelines and emulate industry practice by working collaboratively in teams with students from other animation courses on industry-led briefs and short films. As well as dedicated studios featuring industry-standard VFX software, you have access to dedicated specialist camera and grip equipment, motion-capture studios, and a fully equipped sound stage including green screen facilities and motion-control cameras.
Ranked 20th in the world in the Animation Career Review International Animation School Rankings 2025. (Top 50 International Animation Colleges – formal degree. 207 colleges considered.) Find out more at tees.ac.uk/source.
Course details
Course structure
Core modules
Collaborate in a multi-disciplinary production team, working across MA Animation and MA Visual Effects. Contribute specialist skills to create a short film or VFX sequence, following a professional studio pipeline. The result is a high-quality showpiece for your portfolio.
Develop core skills in digital compositing for the VFX pipeline using industry-standard software and techniques. Work across the full pipeline from planning and acquisition to the final output of a finished shot. You also develop skills in creating seamless motion sequences that integrate live action, CG content and photographed elements.
Develop core skills in digital matte painting through practical application and theoretical insight in the context of VFX production and how to apply them using industry-standard software. Work with live action footage, 3D tracking, digital painting and compositing to create immersive digital environments. Produce a final sequence that combines 2D imagery, filmed elements, CG content and set extensions to transform an establishing shot.
You complete a multidisciplinary group project in your area of interest to create a short film or video game cutscene.
You work in an individual production role within small teams to create an original short film or cutscene, which provide a high-end showpiece for your portfolio.
Industry Research and Development
Research and development form a vital part of every visual effects and games company. You solve technical and creative problems through research and investigation to create stunning animation, effects and assets.
You explore and research an area of your chosen specialisation within the animation, visual effects and games industry.
You focus on a research-informed workflow where you iterate through a process of research, design and evaluation to develop a working prototype or proof of concept that demonstrates high-level techniques related to games, animation and visual effects.
Motion design features across media from film and TV to promos and educational content. You research and develop procedural and simulation-driven solutions to design challenges, applying creative approaches across a range of industry-standard techniques.
Explore the theories behind destruction-based simulation techniques and apply them using industry-standard software. Analyse real-world phenomena alongside visual effects from film and television productions to produce high-quality simulations suitable for professional use.
Advanced practice
The internship options are:
Vocational: spend one semester working full-time in industry or on placement in the University. We have close links with a range of national and international companies who could offer you the chance to develop your knowledge and professional skills in the workplace through an internship. Although we cannot guarantee internships, we will provide you with practical support and advice on how to find and secure your own internship position. A vocational internship is a great way to gain work experience and give your CV a competitive edge.
Research: develop your research and academic skills by undertaking a research internship within the University. Experience working as part of a research team in an academic setting. Ideal for those who are interested in a career in research or academia.
Modules offered may vary.
How you learn
Animation is an intensive discipline, you are focused on creating an animated short from the beginning. You are supported by a teaching team who have backgrounds in 2D and stop motion animation as well as fine art installation. In addition, the course is supported by dedicated stop motion and 2D animation spaces as well as well-equipped workshops with specialist technician support to help you in your model, puppet and set making.
How you are assessed
You are assessed on your subject-specific knowledge, cognitive and intellectual skills and transferable skills applicable to the workplace. You are given formative assessment throughout the programme, typically given during lectures and tutorials.
Entry requirements
At least a UK 2.2 honours degree in animation or equivalent.
Other first degree subjects may be accepted when combined with a portfolio of creative work at an acceptable standard.
Get some hints and tips on how to prepare a portfolio
Students with a degree awarded outside the UK must also meet the University's minimum English language requirements.
For general information please see our overview of entry requirements
International applicants can find out what qualifications they need by visiting our international country pages.
Employability
Career opportunities
You have access to the School Students Future programme to develop your graduate employability skills. This involves a series of activities delivered to all students, year groups, subject cohorts or subject groups and includes industry speaker talks, extra-curricular industry challenges and company visits. The programme is co-ordinated by a team of academic staff, representing each subject area, who are actively working with our industry partners and other external organisations to ensure you are equipped with the skills required for the changing needs from industry.
Work placement
Information for international applicants
Qualifications
International applicants - find out what qualifications you need by selecting your country below.
Select your country:
Useful information
Visit our international pages for useful information for non-UK students and applicants.