Animation, Film and New Media Design

The Bachelor of Animation, Film and New Media Design at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers an innovative and comprehensive education that prepares students for the dynamic fields of digital media, animation, film, and new media art. This multi-disciplinary program emphasizes both creative practice and technical skills, encouraging students to experiment with emerging technologies and to develop original concepts for diverse media platforms. Throughout their studies, students engage in hands-on projects, collaborative work, and critical analysis, enabling them to craft compelling stories and digital experiences that resonate with contemporary audiences. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including 2D and 3D animation, video production, interactive media, game design, visual storytelling, and media theory. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and work closely with industry professionals, gaining practical knowledge and professional insight. The program fosters a unique blend of artistic talent and technical expertise, aiming to cultivate creators who can innovate and lead in the rapidly evolving media landscape. With a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and user engagement, graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers as animators, filmmakers, media designers, multimedia artists, or to start their own creative ventures. The program’s international orientation and emphasis on experimental approaches ensure that students graduate with a diverse and adaptable skill set, ready to contribute meaningfully to the fields of animation, film, and new media design.

"Animation, Film and New Media Design at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers a comprehensive and innovative educational experience that prepares students for successful careers in the dynamic fields of digital media, animation, filmmaking, and new media design. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, enabling students to develop their own unique artistic voice while mastering the latest technologies and techniques used in the industry today. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to experiment with various storytelling methods, visual styles, and media platforms, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of topics including 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, digital storytelling, interactive media, film production, sound design, and multimedia installation art. Students learn through hands-on projects, workshops, and collaborative work with fellow students and industry professionals, which simulate real-world work environments and professional practices. The program emphasizes the importance of conceptual development, research skills, and a strong understanding of media ethics and societal impacts, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the creative industries. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including animation labs, editing suites, sound studios, and media production spaces, providing an ideal environment for experimentation and innovation. The program also encourages international exchange and collaboration, exposing students to diverse perspectives and global trends in media arts. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to pursue careers as animation artists, film directors, media designers, interactive media specialists, or to further their studies in master's programs. The innovative and interdisciplinary nature of this program reflects HKU's commitment to fostering creative excellence and pushing the boundaries of digital media art."

Other requirements

1. ingangstoets Om te kunnen studeren bij de HKU, dien je voor deze studie een toelatingstest te doen. Hierbij wordt bekeken of je over de juiste eigenschappen beschikt om succesvol een kunstopleiding te kunnen afronden. Daarnaast is deze toelatingstest voor jezelf een check dat je een studie kiest die bij je past.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Animation, Film and New Media Design program at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers diverse financing options to accommodate a wide range of students. Funding opportunities include government grants, scholarships, and student loans available through Dutch national and regional sources. The Dutch government provides various scholarships for international students, such as the Holland Scholarship and Orange Tulip Scholarship, which aim to support talented students from outside the European Union. Additionally, the university itself offers tuition fee waivers and merit-based scholarships based on academic achievement, artistic potential, or financial need. Students are encouraged to explore external funding options, including industry sponsorships and private scholarships, that may support their studies and artistic projects.

The program's tuition fees are competitive within the Dutch higher education landscape. For EU/EEA students, the tuition fee is typically aligned with the statutory fee set annually by the government, which is significantly lower than the fees for non-EU/EEA students. Non-EU/EEA students often pay higher tuition fees, but various scholarships may help offset these costs. The university also provides information on part-time work opportunities and internships that can supplement students' income during their studies, often in collaboration with local studios and media companies.

International students are advised to explore long-term financial planning, including applying early for scholarships and understanding Dutch loan options if eligible. The university offers guidance and assistance through its admissions and student services departments to help students identify suitable financing routes. Many students also utilize external grants aimed at supporting arts and media education, which can be crucial for undertaking projects or research related to their field of study.

In addition to tuition costs, students should consider living expenses, which vary depending on location and lifestyle. Utrecht, being a vibrant cultural city with a rich arts scene, provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in part-time work, internships, and collaborative projects that can alleviate financial pressures. Overall, the program emphasizes accessible education through a combination of university aid, government support, and private funding mechanisms, ensuring that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can pursue their aspirations in animation, film, and new media design.

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Animation, Film and New Media Design at HKU University of the Arts Utrecht offers students a comprehensive education that combines creative practice with critical thinking, technical skills, and innovative approaches to visual storytelling. This programme is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the rapidly evolving fields of digital media, animation, film production, and new media art. Throughout the programme, students engage in hands-on projects, immersive workshops, and theoretical coursework that explore the history, theory, and contemporary practices of visual media.

Students develop their skills in various digital tools and software used in animation, video editing, and interactive media. They are encouraged to experiment with different disciplines such as 3D modeling, motion graphics, interactive installations, virtual reality, and augmented reality. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to work in teams on complex projects that reflect real-world industry demands. In addition to technical proficiency, students learn to craft compelling narratives and develop a unique artistic voice, positioning them as innovative creators in the media arts sector.

The programme also focuses on cultural and societal issues by examining the impact of digital media on communication, identity, and cultural expression. Critical reflection is integrated into the learning process, enabling students to understand the ethical and social implications of their work. The academic environment fosters an experimental attitude, encouraging students to push the boundaries of traditional media and explore new forms of storytelling and interaction.

Students benefit from the university’s strong connections with industry partners, festivals, and media organizations, providing ample internship and networking opportunities. The programme culminates in a final project where students showcase their individual artistic vision and technical expertise. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in animation studios, film production companies, digital advertising agencies, interactive media firms, or to continue their studies in postgraduate programs. The degree aims to cultivate versatile media artists who are capable of shaping the future landscape of visual and digital storytelling.