Animation

The MSc in Animation at The University of Edinburgh offers a comprehensive and innovative program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic field of animation. This program combines practical technical training with critical theoretical understanding, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities within the creative industries. Students will engage with a wide range of animation techniques, including 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, character design, storyboarding, and digital imaging. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional artistic principles and cutting-edge technology, providing a balanced education that fosters creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking.

Throughout the program, students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard software, enabling hands-on experience that mirrors professional workflows. They will work on individual and collaborative projects, fostering teamwork and communication skills vital for the animation industry. The program also encourages exploration of interdisciplinary approaches, integrating aspects of film, television, gaming, and interactive media to broaden students' perspectives and prepare them for a rapidly evolving job market.

The program is delivered by expert faculty members who are active professionals in the field of animation, digital media, and visual arts. Their industry experience ensures that teaching is grounded in current industry practices and trends. Students will also benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and networking opportunities with industry professionals, providing invaluable insights and connections.

Research and critical analysis are integral components of this MSc program, encouraging students to develop their own creative voice and engage with contemporary debates surrounding animation theories, ethics, and cultural impacts. The program prepares graduates to pursue careers as animators, visual effects artists, storyboard artists, animation directors, or to continue with PhD research in related fields.

Unique to The University of Edinburgh, this animation program offers a globally recognized education within a vibrant academic community renowned for its interdisciplinary approach and innovative research environment. Whether aiming to work in the entertainment industry, advertising, gaming, or academic research, students will leave with a robust portfolio and the confidence to succeed as creative professionals in a competitive marketplace.

The entry requirements for students with Russian qualifications accepted for entry to our undergraduate programmes are:

• Attestat plus completion of a recognised foundation programme  Or At least one year of the Bakalavr or Specialist degree with an average grade of 'good' (4.0/5.0)
• IELTS Academic module overall 6.5 with 5.5 in each component
• TOEFL-iBT 92 or above with 20 in each section
• Cambridge English: Advanced & Proficiency overall 176 with 162 in each component
• Pearson Test of English (Academic): Total 61 with at least 51 in each "Communicative Skills" section
• Trinity ISE: ISE II with a distinction in all four components

Mini-portfolio

Applicants will be asked to submit a digital mini-portfolio to provide evidence of artistic aptitude and potential, this will form an important part of the selection process. The deadline for mini-portfolio submission is 12:00 noon GMT on Tuesday 31 January 2017 and late mini-portfolio submissions will not be accepted. Applicants applying to enter Year 2 of our programmes, who pass the first stage of selection, will be invited to bring a full portfolio to an Applicant Day.

Important dates

• Early November 2016: Mini-portfolio submissions site opens
• 15 January 2017: UCAS deadline for Home/EU applicants
• 31 January 2017 (12:00 non GMT): Mini-portfolio submission deadline
• 13-17 March 2017: Applicant Days for applicants applying to enter Year 2
• 30 June 2017: Final deadline for UCAS applications from applicants from outside the EU.

BTECs

Applicants studying the Pearson BTEC Diploma in Art and Design will be considered for entry with the following:

• Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design with Merit.
• Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design with Merit plus one A Level at Grade B.
• Pearson BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Art and Design with Merit plus two A Levels at Grade B.

The University of Edinburgh offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in the Animation degree programs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various funding sources to support their studies, including government loans, university scholarships, bursaries, and external funding opportunities. The Scottish Government provides student loans for eligible Scottish and UK students, which can cover tuition fees and living costs. International students may be eligible for specific scholarships and grants designed to offset tuition expenses; these awards are highly competitive and require a strong academic record. The University of Edinburgh also offers internal scholarships based on merit and need, such as the Principal’s Undergraduate Scholarships and the Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarships, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying Animation. Furthermore, there are external funding options available through organizations like the Arts and Humanities Research Council, which occasionally support students pursuing programs related to media and digital arts. Students are advised to carefully review the deadlines and eligibility criteria for each funding source and to submit applications well in advance. Additionally, part-time work opportunities are available within the university campus and in the local Edinburgh community, providing students with the chance to earn supplementary income while gaining valuable experience. Many students also choose to access private educational loans, though these should be considered carefully, taking into account interest rates and repayment terms. The university’s financial aid team provides guidance and support throughout the application process, helping students navigate their options for funding their Animation studies. A well-planned financial strategy is essential to ensure a smooth academic experience without financial stress. Scholarships and bursaries often require maintaining a specific academic performance level, so students are encouraged to stay engaged and perform well academically. The university also offers advice on budgeting and managing living expenses in Edinburgh, which is known for its vibrant cultural scene and relatively affordable cost of living compared to other UK cities. By combining multiple sources of funding, students can effectively finance their Animation degree program and focus on developing their skills in animation techniques, digital media, and storytelling within a supportive academic environment.

The University of Edinburgh offers a comprehensive programme in Animation that combines creative practice with theoretical understanding, preparing students for diverse careers within the digital arts and entertainment industries. The programme covers a broad spectrum of skills including traditional drawing, storyboarding, character design, 3D modeling, rendering, and animation techniques across various software platforms. Students engage with both the foundational principles of animation and modern technological advancements, enabling them to create compelling visual narratives for film, television, gaming, and virtual reality. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through workshops, collaborative projects, and industry placements, fostering a professional approach to animation production. Additionally, students explore the history and theory of animation to deepen their understanding of the medium’s development and impact. The programme benefits from state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated animation studios, editing suites, and access to industry-standard hardware and software. Students are encouraged to develop a unique artistic voice while honing their technical skills, making them competitive in a rapidly evolving creative sector. The programme also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary work, integrating animation with other digital arts such as visual effects and interactive media. Graduates of the Animation programme from the University of Edinburgh are well-equipped to pursue careers in animation studios, game development companies, advertising agencies, and other creative industries. The programme’s academic staff include experienced practitioners and researchers in the field of animation and digital arts, ensuring students receive both practical training and scholarly guidance. Overall, this programme aims to foster innovation, creativity, and technical proficiency, supporting students in achieving their artistic and professional aspirations in the dynamic world of animation.