Animation

From 2D and 3D animations, to Visual Effects and Game Art, nurture your creativity into life and transform your ideas into reality

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BA/BSc (Hons) Visual Effects and Animation

Overview

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HOW YOU'LL LEARN

From the serenity of an elven forest to an explosive planetary invasion, visual effects are at the core of the moving industry. From blockbuster movies to high-impact commercials and interactive video games, visual effects artists are now embedded across many film projects, working to shape the visual language of an entire movie. In the UK, the visual effects sector continues to evolve and grow.

From modelling to 3D animation and motion capture, you’ll learn the critical hands-on elements and processes needed to tell a story and release your ideas from the page.

You will learn how to analyse and design images and animations for a range of professional contexts. We place a strong emphasis on equipping you with the tools you'll need to manipulate your creations and you'll gain an understanding of critical pre-production planning processes. You'll also explore how lighting, rendering and visual language combine to bring visual effects to life.

Your final project includes a professional showreel of your accomplishments demonstrating your practical skills and showcasing your storytelling and artistic talents.

Learn more about 2 year degrees.


OUR FACILITIES

You’ll have access to top specification PC labs running the latest industry-standard software and Wacom Intuos tablets. We have studios equipped with infinity curved green screens and lighting rigs.

Facilities*

  • Top spec PC lab
  • PCs equipped with nVidia GTX 1080 Graphics processors
  • Two screens per workstation
  • A dedicated art room
  • Industry-standard 2D and 3D software

*NB: Visit our facilities page to learn more about the equipment available at each of our campuses. Alternatively, you can see for yourself by attending an Open Event.


YOUR FUTURE IN ANIMATION

The gaming industry moves as quickly as the technology grows to create new and astounding effects. There is a real need for fresh imagination matched by technical skill to bring characters and their challenges into a gamer’s world in an immersive way.

Our graduates have gone on to find work in a number of globally recognised companies in the animation industry and in some of the many independent agencies that have sprung up to satisfy this growing market. You may even choose to start your own business, like graduate Urwin Rijkaart, who spotted a gap in the market for a studio that specialised in 3D infographics for games, and put his training at SAE to good use to launch CrozzRoads Studios. 

STUDENT WORK

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Want to see more student work? Click here for more.

SAE Benefits

As a student of SAE, you will get access to our industry-focused SAE Extra events which serve to enhance your studies through masterclasses, guest lectures, workshops and panel discussions with key industry professionals. These free events provide the perfect opportunity for you to network, get advice, guidance and tips as well as hear first-hand what it’s like to work in the animation industry. Recent guests include: Johann Frenschock - Special FX Artist, Jay Roxas - VFX Animator, Robert Ramsay - Game Artist, Jess Hider - VFX Artist and Francesca Pesce - Post Supervisor at Blue-Zoo Animation.

Staff Spotlight

Firdaus was a Games Designer Executive for Phoenix Games Studio back in 2004 and had shipped the AAA game title Storm Riders Online, one of Asia's first successful MMORPG. Previously, he was a Comic Content Writer for Art Square Production in 2002 as a part of the successful Gempak & Utopia comics.

Prior to today as the Programme Coordinator of Animation, Web and Games Departments at SAE Institute, Firdaus was the Senior Lecturer in the Postgraduate Department (Multimedia Management) at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, and a Lecturer in the Postgraduate Department (Animation and Games Design), Creative Games Design Department and the Graphics Design Department at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).

Firdaus Khalid

Programme Coordinator of Animation, Web and Games
Liverpool

 

To view more staff profiles, please click here.

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UCAS CODE 615W

DURATION: 2 years full-time

AVAILABLE AT*

  • London
  • Liverpool
  • Glasgow
  • Oxford (2020 only)

START DATES* 

  • September 2020
  • September 2021

In Partnership with Middlesex University
This programme was developed and is delivered and assessed by SAE Institute, awarded by and quality assured by Middlesex University.
Modules

2D Fundamentals

The aim of this module is to introduce you to the principles of 2D, and develop the skills and techniques used for content creation. It provides an insight into drawing and digital imaging and shows standard work ow operations in a 2D pipeline. The module further aims to outline the design process from the first idea to a finished 2D scene, with an emphasis on research. You’ll also be required to apply the theoretical underpinnings of design processes via a range of practical explorations and critical analyses. This will provide you with a solid understanding of 2D workflows and methods that will form the foundation of successive modules.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Thumbnail sketches
  • Concept design
  • Technical Drawing
  • Digital Imaging
  • Observational Drawing
  • Photo Imaging
  • Graphic File Formats
  • Drawing from Reference

Projects

  • 2D Production Portfolio
  • Environment Creation Project

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Discuss the basic principles of 2D design fundamentals
  • Outline the design and production pipeline fundamentals
  • Define the basic principles of drawing

Skills

  • Demonstrate drawing techniques using digital applications
  • Demonstrate teamwork in the creation of artefacts
  • Demonstrate the use of the principles of design for creating 2D content

Information, Communication and Professional Media Practice

In this module we introduce you to proven concepts and routines of academic research, critique and writing, and nurture these skills to ensure that you apply good study practice and management throughout your studies. We will familiarise you with the theories of culture and communication and develop your understanding of how the creative media industries work and of your potential role as a professional creative media practitioner. Together, all of these skills will help you develop transferable career skills to aid your job search upon graduation.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Learning theories and methods
  • Introduction to basic concepts and tools of project management, including group and collaborative work
  • Tools for career development
  • Defining and developing goals and outcomes
  • Concepts of, practices in, and reasons for research
  • Writing skills (articles, essays, journals, reports, proposals) and the differences between concept development and presentation format
  • Essay structure, paragraph structure, sentence structure
  • Concept of a thesis/hypothesis
  • Ownership, intellectual copyright and plagiarism
  • Referencing, APA and Harvard
  • Introduction to culture and cultural movements
  • Overview of the creative media industries

Projects

  • Cultural and Industry Analysis
  • Career Pathway
  • Industry Sector Comparison

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Summarise basics of learning theories and their application in learning, communication and teamwork
  • Explain academic practice, critical thinking and reasons for their importance
  • Identify key players in the creative media industries and discuss their interplay with wider cultural, economical, political and geographical phenomena
  • Articulate a thought-through plan for development of a career, project or concept

Skills

  • Derive tasks from goals, plan time and resources accordingly and manage working in group context
  • Present an objective argument succinctly in written form employing a standard referencing system
  • Apply the most appropriate method of learning in a given scenario and adapt learning methods when needed
  • Discuss culture and communication in different media disciplines (audio, picture, film, web)

3D Fundamentals

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the principles of 3D, and develop the skills and techniques used for content creation. It provides an insight into modelling, texturing and shows standard workflow operations in a 3D pipeline, including interoperability. The module further aims to outline the effective use of geometry in regards of performance and workflow optimisation. At the end of module, you will have developed the skills for designing and realising an environment in 3D using various 3D modelling applications, adopting professional workflows and demonstrating a practical understanding of the production pipeline. 

Indicative List of Topics

  • Principles of 3D
  • 3D Modelling Techniques
  • UV Mapping
  • Basic texturing
  • Topology and Optimisation
  • 3D Assets File Formats
  • Pipeline overview

Projects

  • Motion Graphics Project.
  • Shot Planning Assignment
  • Character Analysis and Scripting

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to

Knowledge

  • Define the basic principles of 3D modelling
  • Define the principles of 3D modelling
  • Outline the design and production pipeline of 3D workflows
  • Identify the effective use of 3D topology

Skills

  • Operate in a production pipeline for 3D content creation              
  • Apply pipelines and creative workflows
  • Apply 3D modelling techniques and tools using appropriate workflow           
  • Apply basic texturing techniques and tools using appropriate workflow

Rendering and Animation Fundamentals

This module introduces students to the principles of animation and rendering, developing the skills and techniques used for content creation and animation. It provides an insight into the rigging and animation process and shows standard workflows in 2D and 3D animation. You will apply the theoretical underpinnings of animation processes via a range of practical explorations and critical analyses. This will provide you with a solid understanding of animation principles and rendering processes leading to a presentation in different output formats.

Indicative List of Topics

  • History of Animation
  • 2D Animation techniques
  • 3D Animation techniques
  • Rigging basics
  • Principles of lighting
  • Camera
  • Material Theory and Shader
  • Rendering techniques

Projects

  • Animation and Modelling Assignments
  • Develop a short, complete, 3D animation project

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Examine the effective use of animation techniques to create simple animation
  • Identify the basic principles of 3D animation
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of the production pipeline for 3D animation
  • Identify appropriate rendering techniques and tools

Skills

  • Create digital assets for integration into animation production
  • Apply basic rendering techniques
  • Develop a 3D animation that demonstrates the effective use of animation techniques

Introduction to VFX

This module is designed to develop your understanding of VFX production pipelines, as well as core concepts of cinematography applicable to VFX production. The module will explore the technical aspects of live action shooting, and how these transfer into a digital environment. You will be provided with fundamental tools to develop realistic aesthetics for digital animated content production. Students will also develop  lm language skills using traditional film media, which complement the VFX production process.

Indicative List of Topics 

  • VFX Production Pipeline
  • Compositing fundamentals
  • Photography
  • Shot Visual Properties
  • Aesthetics in Cinema
  • Colour Grading
  • Lighting setups for live action
  • Shading 

Projects

  • Animation Production

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Explain the fundamental concepts and techniques of VFX production pipelines K2 Interpret the codes essential to vfx aesthetics
  • Explain the fundamental concepts and techniques of optics and lighting for film production
  • Identify the core aspects of production planning and workflow for VFX 

Skills

  • Demonstrate the effective use of lighting and colour
  • Demonstrate professional practice using industry techniques
  • Produce 3D content appropriate for basic integration into live action footage 

Creative Production

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

This module aims to further your ability to engage in a reflective process in parallel, with your production practice. It seeks to provide you with the opportunity to explore focused production practice in your own, or other related disciplines and to advance their holistic production skills. Building on previous production management experience, through adhering to specific briefs in larger production situations, the module aims to develop your aesthetic judgement to give you a focussed opportunity to develop advanced production skills in a specific field, on a larger scale.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Practical Production Planning
  • Production Techniques in relevant discipline
  • Specialised digital production software
  • Innovative use of built-in software features
  • Production Planning
  • Methods for evaluation
  • Reflective and Critical Analysis
  • Giving, receiving and learning from feedback
  • Cross-disciplinary production practice

Projects

  • Creative Production

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Evaluate their own production processes and creative decisions
  • Discuss media production processes in a wider theoretical context
  • Differentiate between good ideas, and good ideas that will improve a production in its entirety


Skills

  • Apply production theories to practical production techniques
  • Produce complex digital media products to a high standard
  • Experiment with production techniques based on feedback
  • Produce detailed, yet concise project evaluations

Practical Mobile App Design

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

We provide you with an overview of the mobile app industry, its history, user areas and user culture. We will provide you with an understanding of, and skills in, User Interface Design (UID) and User Experience (UX) specifically for mobile app design. By using a ‘drag and drop’ middleware to be able to, without programming skills, design and develop a viable concept for a mobile app, and produce a working version at completion.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Overview of Application (App) industry
  • Uses, users and user needs
  • User Experience (UX) and User Interface Design (UID)
  • Key Functions
  • Application Architecture
  • Design Process
  • Legal and Copyright considerations
  • Testing, Distributing and Selling Apps
  • Information architecture
  • Basic Concepts of Coding
  • Middleware for App creation
  • Use of Media
  • Use of device functions (camera, microphone, accelerometer)
  • Prototyping

Projects

  • Mobile Application Case Study
  • Mobile Application Development

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Illustrate understanding of User Experience (UX) needs, in an App context
  • Analyse user needs and behaviour when using Apps
  • Explain architecture of applications
  • Discuss the cultural impact of mobile apps, their development and use

Skills

  • Use established middleware to produce basic working apps
  • Apply knowledge of consumer needs in User Experience (UX) and User Interface Design (UID)
  • Plan and carry-out basic User Experience (UX) surveys
  • Design and manage content of mobile apps

Dynamics for Visual Effects

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

The aim of this module is to expose you to the principles and types of dynamic simulations used in 3D production, examining key technical and aesthetic requirements of VFX shots, to understand wider construction based considerations. You will develop in-depth knowledge of complex natural phenomenon and attain the skills to recreate them using an array of software solutions. After comprehending this, you will then enhance your skill and technique to alter the laws of physics, for VFX and motion graphics.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Dynamic Simulations Overview
  • Rigid/Soft body Dynamics and Forces
  • Particle Dynamics (particle and emitter types, particle collisions)
  • Caching Particle Simulations
  • Meshing Particles for Liquid Simulations
  • Rendering particles
  • Cloth Simulations and Cloth Constraints, Cloth properties, Caching and Cache Blending
  • Hair Systems and Dynamic Follicles/ Rendering Hair
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Fluid Properties, Caching, Meshing and Rendering
  • Exporting and Exchanging Simulation Caches, Point Clouds and Meshes (xml, point cache, Alembic)
  • Scripted Simulations and Node Based Controlled Simulations
  • Overview of Plugins and Specialised Dynamic Simulation Softwares

Projects

  • Dynamic Simulations

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Design effective visual effects pipelines
  • Analyse concepts and theories underpinning dynamic computer generated visual effects solutions
  • Describe the dynamics principles of natural phenomenon commonly simulated in VFX
  • Describe and critique the role of dynamic, computer generated, visual effects in screen media

Skills

  • Apply scripting techniques to dynamic computer generated visual effects
  • Create complementary effects using dynamic simulations
  • Implement technical principles of dynamics tools and simulation concepts, effectively

Advanced Compositing and Motion Graphics Applications

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

As your knowledge matures you will learn the methods and tools used to integrate visual elements from various sources to create the illusion of single and unified images and video sequences through digital compositing. By studying the history of compositing, theories of optics and considering the implications of technical compositing issues, you will be capable of designing, managing and composing a plan for various types of visual effects projects.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Principles of node based compositing
  • Advanced node based compositing
  • Motion Graphics
  • VFX Supervising
  • Planning VFX Projects
  • Matchmoving
  • Advanced CGI Compositing
  • Scripting Applications

Projects

  • Time Lapse Animation
  • VFX Short Project

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Describe and critically analyse the concepts and rules commonly utilised in motion design
  • Explain the principles of compositing and applications within a range of VFX works
  • Plan production pipelines for VFX projects

Skills

  • Apply technical and theoretical knowledge in the effective operation of compositing software
  • Employ effective workflow, to develop VFX productions
  • Create believable and aesthetically pleasing composite images and video sequences

Advanced Character Animation and Production Rendering

You will learn how to develop character animation techniques by bringing together anatomy and movement knowledge, facial animation, comedic timing and general acting theories and techniques for both human and non-human characters. See your personal style really take shape and advance as you further enhance your knowledge in production rendering to be able to create visually stunning pieces of work for your showreel, demonstrating both technical aptitude and flair.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Facial Animation
  • Performance capture and Emotion for animation
  • Anthropomorphic Animation
  • Zoomorphic Animation
  • Rays, Scanline Rendering and Raytracing
  • External Render Engines within a 3D application
  • Applying Image Effects
  • Global Illumination
  • GPU Rendering

Projects

  • Advanced Character Animation

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Interpret a brief in order to complete an animation project
  • Analyse the effective use of animation techniques to create seamless 
animation
  • Select the most efficient rendering techniques and tools for their 
project

Skills

  • Create detailed character animation, drawing on both technical and creative skills
  • Manage an animation project fulfilling, a specific brief, on time and in full
  • Apply advanced rendering techniques

Marketing, Business Planning and Law

You will gain an understanding of the essential knowledge, concepts and analytical tools of business and marketing needed to function effectively in the industry. We will also open your eyes to key legal and ethical issues that underpin practices specifically related to the creative media industries. On completion of this module, you will have developed key communication skills, while being sensitive to the impact of how communication can shape how we as a society understand each other in social, cultural and economic contexts.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Business and Management Studies
  • Business Planning
  • Legal Issues and Law
  • Enterprise, Entrepreneurship
  • Ethical Considerations
  • Marketing Concepts
  • Market Segmentation and Targeting
  • Marketing & Promotional Strategies
  • Brand Development
  • Brand Management
  • Product Development
  • Communication Models and Theories
  • Crafting the Pitch
  • Presentation Techniques

Projects

A portfolio of tasks, including business and marketing plan, draft contracts and presentation.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Demonstrate an understanding of basic business and marketing concepts and practices in relation to the creative media industries
  • Discuss legal and ethical issues of the creative media industries
  • Discuss the basic concepts of communication studies

Skills

  • Apply business and marketing planning concepts
  • Effectively communicate business and marketing ideas and proposals
  • Summarise the needs in a given situation and then communicate their ideas succinctly, in a fashion appropriate to that context
  • Develop the contents of a basic contract and draw conclusions as to its tenability

Research Practice and Society

Research is key to the successful outcome of any creative project. In this module you will learn qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and their application for both artistic and scientific research. You will advance your knowledge, planning and implementation of research-based inquiry to address specific questions, while deepening your understanding of the creative media industries and your potential role as a creative media practitioner. Appreciation of the ongoing interplay between science and the history of ideas, culture and creative media, will lend credibility and depth to your work for a profound effect in the marketplace.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Research Methodologies and their application in the creative media industries
  • Artistic and Scientific research and practice
  • Theories and Paradigms of research
  • Contemporary issues surrounding research
  • Developing a research question / hypothesis
  • Gathering, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data
  • Literature review and critical analysis of existing research
  • Research Ethics
  • Creative media industries: past, present and future
  • The role of practitioners in the creative media industries
  • History of ideas, and scientific and cultural theories
  • Types of culture
  • Scientific and cultural issues, the development of ideas over time and cultural diversity
  • Decoding science and culture: communication, meaning and semiotics

Projects

  • Cultural Analysis
  • Creative Media Practitioner Analysis
  • Major Project Proposal

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Evaluate a range of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies used in creative media
  • Critically analyse previously researched specific contemporary issues relating to different areas of the creative media industries
  • Analyse a variety of creative industry sectors and their relation to the arts
  • Discuss continuing professional development strategies
  • Compare different and changing cultural ideas
  • Critically appraise the interplay between culture and consumers of culture

Skills

  • Apply qualitative, quantitative and mixed research methods in academic and creative media contexts
  • Select the most appropriate research method(s) to address a particular research question
  • Develop a personal continuing professional development plan
  • Communicate their knowledge of cultural issues effectively, through comparative analysis of cultural ideas

Industry Engagement

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

Through a range of experiences that may consist of a single placement, or a series of industry engagements you will experience an enhanced understanding of workplace dynamics, facilitate active industry engagement, and be exposed to current realities and practices within your chosen field. You will work to create a portfolio of work that will facilitate an invaluable, informed transition from education to the workplace.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Critically analysing current/historical industry trends and practices (case study approach)
  • Industry Engagement Analysis
  • Becoming a reflective practitioner
  • Logbook Development
  • Building a Portfolio
  • Supervisor Consultation
  • Combination of directed and self directed industry engagement activities

Projects

  • Industry Engagement Portfolio
  • Industry Engagement Activity and Report

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Examine advanced theoretical and applied perspectives, ethical principles and other knowledge applicable to the work/practice context
  • Reflect on the engagement of other industry practitioners and their contribution to the work/practice
  • Posit a well reasoned rationale for the choice of methods of inquiry that have informed creative approaches to action planning/problem solving, contextualising the choices
  • Evaluate the process of designing and developing your industry based activity and how its outcomes have contributed to enhancing your work/practice and that of others

Skills

  • Engage and take responsibility for future professional development using the learning from the project/inquiry process
  • Demonstrate coherent and organised communication, interpersonal and networking skills, when sharing ideas and information within an industry based setting
  • Develop an effective portfolio, with a range of suitable materials that support the students career related focus

Advanced Specialised Project

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

By choosing a specific area of specialisation, you will develop a stronger awareness of your professional interests and the ability of directing the professional development of your future career. You will learn how to assess your own skills and knowledge and develop strategies to bring them to the desired level. We develop your professional practice through the planning and development of either a study or practical based activity, carried out individualy or as a team.

Indicative List of Topics

This module is highly customisable by each student (or group of students), therefore a specific syllabus will be proposed by them and agreed with their assigned tutor and supervised by the programme coordinator. However, the following subjects will be normally included:

  • Self Assessment
  • Project Planning and Management
  • Resource Allocation
  • Time Management
  • Reporting and Presentation

Projects

Depending on the nature of the project, this assignment can be a practical component of one major media production, a portfolio of more than one smaller projects or a written component such as an essay or an argumentative article. Students are required to present their project to their peers, focusing more on their professional development rather than on the project itself.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Evaluate their preparation on a specific area of the chosen discipline
  • Decide an area of specialisation based on industry and/or personal requirements
  • Evaluate their progress independently
  • Develop subject-specific knowledge according to their proposed project

Skills

  • Apply analytical skills to their own knowledge, in order to identify strengths and weaknesses
  • Develop a study plan to achieve the desired skills or knowledge
  • Organise their and other people’s work effectively, in order to complete the chosen activity
  • Present the outcomes of their work in a convincing and effective manner
  • Develop subject specific practical skills, according to their proposed project

Advanced Rigging Applications

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

Through the realisation and evaluation of the tensions between creative application of animation technology and anatomical and anthropological issues, you will hone your skills to a more sophisticated, conceptual and technical level. You will analyse, in great detail, the various aspects of human expression, physical manifestations and traits and translate these elements into the design of your animated characters.

Indicative List of Topics

  • History of Facial Animation
  • Awareness to body and facial expression
  • Human Locomotion
  • Believability and Uncanny valley
  • Anatomy of the face
  • Face Analysis and Coding
  • The Universal Expression
  • Advanced character setup to support production requirements
  • Deformation Techniques to preserve volume
  • Blendshape Theory
  • Face Skeletal Rig
  • Corrective Shape
  • Offset Rig

Projects

  • Advanced Rigging
  • Face Action Coding Analysis

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Analyse the anatomical and psychological origins of character’s emotional response
  • Evaluate approaches used to determine the surface shape of a facial model
  • Plan modelling principles and techniques to be implemented for the development of character animation

Skills

  • Implement facial deformation model techniques to achieve a desired expression
  • Develop control parameterisations and user interface for animation
  • Create an animation that demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the principles of character animation

Advanced Character Creation

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

In this module you will further enhance your knowledge in modelling and texturing tools, by learning new applications and applying them towards refining and creating suitable characters for both film and games. Utilising these advanced techniques to the fullest potential, you will advance your own personal style, whilst refining your technical skill-set, with the results being made part of your all-important showreel.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Hard surface versus organic modeling using digital sculpting and transfer to 3D application
  • Anthropomorphic Characters
  • Zoomorphic Characters
  • Retopology
  • UV Unwrapping
  • Projection Mapping
  • Sub-surface Scattering Material
  • Displacement and normal mapping creating and rendering techniques
  • Digital Painting
  • Photorealistic Rendering
  • Stylised Rendering Techniques

Projects

  • Character Creation

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Differentiate between the requirements for successful character models in film or games
  • Produce a production analysis and plan for a complex character animation project
  • Analyse style differences in character creation and use them appropriately

Skills

  • Develop a 3D character to a given brief, style and industry standard
  • Apply texture to a character to a given brief, style and industry standard
  • Implement advanced modelling, texturing and rendering techniques, within a 3D application

Cinematics for Games

This is an elective module. You are given the opportunity to choose an elective module in Trimester 3 and Trimester 5 of your degree course. Please check electives lists on each of our London, Liverpool, Oxford and Glasgow campuses as local availability may vary.

This module aims to develop your skills and knowledge of cinematics as applied within games related productions. By focussing on environment modeling, high resolution character development, dynamics, and compositing, you will develop skills in digital matte painting and 3D compositing. These aspects will be combined with your critical analysis skills to evaluate the aesthetic and technical demands of contemporary high-end game cinematics.

Indicative List of Topics

  • Advanced Visual Storytelling
  • Creative Editing Techniques
  • Storyboarding, Previz, Research and Development, Technical
  • Breakdown, Planning
  • Transferring Concept Art to 3D
  • Complex Characters With Dynamic Props
  • Editing Motion Capture Files
  • Facial Animations
  • Multipass Rendering and Compositing
  • Digital Matte Painting
  • 3D Compositing
  • Using Dynamic Simulations to create complex VFX
  • Creating Rich Lighting Moods and Atmospheric Effects
  • Finalising and Packing the Final Product

Projects

  • Game Cut Scene

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Develop effective models of project development, management, workflows, pipelines and productivity
  • Analyse contemporary and historical cinematics based techniques
  • Evaluate the impact of the concept art, visual storytelling, 3D production and compositing on the final product

Skills

  • Implement various tools and methods to create high-end production look
  • Produce complex animation projects that compliment a planned technical and artistic direction
  • Create a range of assets and compositional elements for integration into VFX production

Major Project (BA or BSc)

Your major project is intended to demonstrate the range of advanced skills required of a substantial level six body of work. It is also evidence of your ability to conduct independent projects and manage a large scale venture. Central to the module is an exploration of research methodologies and their applications. It also allows you to explore aspects of your own artistic style and its presentation to the public. You will begin by developing a project proposal. Once this is approved, you will manage all aspects involved in the preliminary and planning phases through to realisation. Your major project is self-generated and may take many different forms, there is however an expectation that the final deliverable will be of a calibre that will help progress you into employment or postgraduate study.

BA (Hons) Route

Research methods for a BA-Project could imply interviews, surveys, audience-tests (audio, video, web etc.) or observations of user behaviour. Alternatively the student can focus on a high-quality creative portfolio, presenting their own artistic works to the public and evaluating their own style and performance.

BSc (Hons) Route

Research methods for a BSc-Project could imply calculations, measurements, simulations or observations of technical/scientific correlations.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

Knowledge

  • Analyse a specialised field of interest
  • Outline creative aspects within their specialised field
  • Discuss appropriate methodologies needed to undertake reliable and valid research, or production of a creative portfolio
  • Plan the complex processes involved in the implementation of a major project

Skills

  • Successfully apply appropriate methodologies needed to undertake reliable and valid research
  • Apply academic and creative/practical skills appropriate to the level of study
  • Manage a major project independently, professionally and efficiently
  • Communicate effectively the outcomes
Entry Requirements

ENTRY 2018/19

Offers will be made to applicants who are expected to meet, or exceed the entry requirements below;

  UCAS tariff points
at A Level
(or equivalent)		 Course subjects
at GCSE level A* - C / 9 - 4
(or equivalent)

BA/BSc (Hons) Audio Production

 72

Mathematics & English

BA/BSc (Hons) Music Business

 72 English

BA/BSc (Hons) Digital Film Production

 72 English

BA/BSc (Hons) Game Art Animation or Visual Effects Animation

 72 English

BSc (Hons) Games Programming

 72

Mathematics & English

BA/BSc (Hons) Web Development

 72 English

*For students studying in Scotland this is equivalent to National 5, C grade. For any further equivalency queries please contact the Admissions office.

As a creative media education provider, SAE looks for students who are excited about the creative media industries. For applications from mature students, we also consider work and life experience. In such cases, SAE Institute requires applicants to provide satisfactory evidence of their ability to successfully complete the programme. You should submit a digital portfolio and a CV.

For International equivalence of UK qualifications, you can email your query to enquiries@sae.edu. SAE Institute uses the services of NARIC to provide such advice. 

Further information can be found in our Selection and Admission Policy.

Students whose first language is not English will need a qualification that demonstrates competence in English.

For Non EU/EEA applicants we currently accept the following qualifications for admission into our courses at degree level:

Tests for visa purposes can only be taken at approved centres and the centre must follow procedures specified by the UK government.

EU/EEA APPLICANTS

Equivalent qualifications can be accepted, where these qualifications have been verified by NARIC and are adopted widely within the HE sector in the UK. 

Recognition of Prior Learning

Applicants who hold a qualification from another institution, or who have formally completed components of another qualification, must submit authorised evidence of those achievements at the time of application to SAE Institute. 

Please refer to Policy A06 Academic Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for details.

Access to degree via SAE Diploma

Applicants for degree study who have successfully completed the relevant SAE Diploma in a campus outside of the UK may normally progress to the 2nd year of the total programme and carry credit, (120 cps/60 ECTS at level 4 and 60cps/30ECTS at level 5), towards the award.

This only applies to degree programmes validated by Middlesex University.

Fees & Funding

2-Year Degrees

As our degrees are only 2 years, you save a considerable amount on both tuition fees and living expenses when compared to a traditional 3 year degree. So, you can study and graduate with a much lower level of student debt!

Tuition fees and payment plans for UK and EU/EAA students.*

For further information, please visit www.sae.edu/gbr/fees-and-funding

ENGLAND / EU

Students following higher education programmes (BA/BSc) can apply for a student loan to cover the full cost of the yearly tuition fee of £9,000 from 1st August 2019. The Student Loans Company (SLC) Tuition Fee Loan is paid on a student’s behalf to SAE Institute.

You may also qualify for a maintenance loan to help you with your day-to-day living costs.

For more information, advice, eligibility and online application, please visit: www.gov.uk/apply-online-for-student-finance

NOTE - EU Students – The UK Government have confirmed that undergraduates from EU countries attending English universities following Brexit, from September 2019, will incur the same annual tuition fees as their English peers and have access to the same government-backed student loans for the duration of their degree course.
 

SCOTLAND

Partial funding from SAAS (Student Awards Agency for Scotland) is available as a tuition fee grant of £1,205 per year to qualifying Scottish students studying at SAE Glasgow.

Scottish students studying in England at the London or Liverpool campuses will get the same repayable tuition fee loan as English students, covering the entire yearly tuition fee.

Students may also qualify for a maintenance loan and additional grants dependent on personal circumstances to help with day-to-day living costs. The maximum loan available is £5,750 per year, which is based on household income. Students may also be eligible for a bursary of up to £1,875, again dependent on household income.

For more information, advice, eligibility and online application, please visit: www.saas.gov.uk/index.htm

Live in Northern Ireland, Wales or the Isle of Man?

Student support is available via your local Government. See:

Northern Ireland: studentfinanceni.co.uk
Wales: studentfinancewales.co.uk
Isle of Man: www.gov.im/categories/education-training-and-careers/student-grants/

Questions?

For further information about tuition fees at SAE or anything else, please get in touch:

Via webchat at: www.sae.edu/gbr/
Via email at: enquiries@sae.edu
Via phone at: 03330 112 315
 

 

Careers

Graduates from this course have many career options and have gone on to diverse employment destinations which include: 

  • Compositor
  • 2D Sequence Supervisor
  • 3D Generalist
  • Matte Painter
  • Visual Effects Supervisor
  • Tracker
  • Rigging Artist
  • Vehicle Rigging Artist
  • Effects Technical Director
  • Technical Artist
  • Character Modeller 
  • Virtual Reality VFX Specialist

SAE Alumni Success

SAE alumnus Billy Butler is a Lead Modeler at Framestore, London, United Kingdom. He has built an exceptional list of achievements, working on movies such as ‘Changeling’, ‘Legend of the Guardian’ and ‘Suckerpunch’. Billy was also part of the team that won a BAFTA and an Academy Award for the film ‘Gravity’

 

* This programme may not be available across all of our four UK campuses. If there is insufficient demand to ensure an excellent learning and teaching experience meaning that we are unable to offer this course at the campus of or on the date your choice, we will offer you a place at an alternative campus subject to availability. For further information on course availability, please call our Admissions team on 03330 112 315 or email enquiries@sae.edu. This programme was developed and is delivered and assessed by SAE Institute, awarded by and quality assured by Middlesex University. Students will receive a Middlesex University award on successful completion of their studies. SAE Institute reserves the right to make revisions and changes to the information presented in line with continuous improvement actions, and stakeholder feedback.

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