Digital Artist

Digital Artist at the University of Kent is a dynamic and innovative undergraduate degree programme designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in the rapidly evolving field of digital art and creative media. This programme combines theoretical understanding with practical application, enabling students to develop a strong foundation in digital illustration, animation, concept art, 3D modelling, and interactive media. Throughout the course, students will explore various digital tools and software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, Blender, and Unity, fostering their technical proficiency and creative problem-solving abilities. The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to experiment with different artistic styles and digital techniques, preparing them for diverse careers within the creative industries. Students will engage in hands-on projects, collaborative work, and real-world assignments that mirror industry practices, ensuring they graduate with a portfolio showcasing their skills and originality. In addition, the programme offers opportunities for internships, guest lectures from industry professionals, and exhibitions to showcase student work, providing valuable industry exposure and networking opportunities. The Digital Artist programme also incorporates elements of game design, virtual reality, and augmented reality, reflecting current industry trends and technological advancements. Throughout their studies, students will develop not only their artistic talents but also their understanding of the commercial aspects of digital art, including branding, marketing, and intellectual property rights. The University of Kent’s supportive learning environment, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities foster an inspiring setting for aspiring digital artists to thrive. Graduates of this programme are prepared for a broad range of careers including digital illustration, concept art for film and video games, animation, UX/UI design, digital marketing, and freelance creative work. The programme aims to nurture innovative, adaptable, and forward-thinking digital artists who can contribute creatively and technically to the digital media landscape.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 14860 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

Teaching & Assessment

Teaching in the School has been rated as excellent. The course is taught by a team of experts in communication, animation, film-making, photography and website design.

All modules contain design and project work, and are continuously assessed. The specialist project at Stage 3 is assessed by a written report, a critique and, of course, the outcome of the project itself. Both Stage 2 and 3 marks count towards your degree result.

You have 24-hour access to our extensive air-conditioned computer suites and are able to take advantage of dedicated photographic and production studios, with green-screen, motion-capture and 3D scanning facilities.

Careers

This programme offers a variety of career options, dependent on the course content chosen.

Graduates from the Digital Arts BA typically find careers in areas such as: web design, film, games design, animation and internet publishing. While this is a new programme it is designed to offer similar career pathways to our Master's programmes in Computer Animation and Digital Visual Effects.

Previous students from the Computer Animation MSc are working in animation and animation layout roles for companies like Sony Games and Framestore CFC on major titles in games, television and film. This is not easy to achieve as global competition is fierce in these areas - success depends on a much better than average concentration and constant practice to grasp the essence and modern techniques of animation.

Previous students from the Digital Visual Effects MSc are working for London and international companies in areas ranging from television graphics to architectural visualisation, although the thrust of that programme is towards high end film special effects and animation from which the standards and techniques allow you to go into numerous other areas of digital effects.

Alongside your studies on the Digital Arts MArt, you develop useful workplace skills such as planning and organisation, leadership, and effective communication.

If you are interested in setting up your own business, the Kent Enterprise Hub is there to offer help and advice.

The Digital Artist program at the University of Kent is designed to provide students with comprehensive skills in digital creativity, visual design, and multimedia production. Students are expected to engage with a wide range of practical and theoretical modules that cover key areas such as digital imaging, animation, interactive media, and graphic design. The curriculum emphasizes the development of both technical proficiency and conceptual understanding, enabling students to produce innovative digital artwork tailored to contemporary media industries.

Participants will learn industry-standard software and tools including Adobe Creative Suite, 3D modeling platforms, and animation software, fostering proficiency in digital art creation. The program also encourages exploration of emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and game design, facilitating the development of versatile skills applicable in various digital art and media sectors. In addition to technical modules, students undertake critical studies in digital media theory, art history, and contemporary practices, promoting a well-rounded academic experience.

To successfully complete the program, students are required to undertake a combination of coursework assignments, practical projects, and portfolio development. These assessments are designed to demonstrate their technical capabilities, artistic vision, and understanding of digital media contexts. The year-long final project allows students to produce a substantial piece of digital artwork or interactive media, showcasing their mastery of skills acquired throughout the course.

The program encourages collaboration and interdisciplinary learning through group projects and workshops, preparing students for professional environments where teamwork and communication are essential. Students also benefit from the university’s connections with industry partners, providing opportunities for internships, networking, and real-world project experience.

Admission requirements typically include a relevant academic background, such as art, design, or computing, along with a strong portfolio demonstrating digital creativity and technical skills. Prospective students are advised to possess a keen interest in digital arts and a willingness to experiment with new media forms. Overall, the Digital Artist program aims to produce highly skilled graduates capable of contributing creatively and technically across a range of digital media industries.

The University of Kent offers several financing options for students enrolled in the Digital Artist undergraduate programme to help manage the costs of their studies. Prospective students can apply for various forms of financial support, including government-backed loans, scholarships, bursaries, and other funding opportunities. The UK government provides tuition fee loans for eligible home students, which can cover the full cost of tuition fees and are repayable only after graduation and when earning above a certain income threshold. International students are advised to explore specific scholarship opportunities offered by the university or external funding agencies, as they may not qualify for UK government loans.

The university also provides a variety of scholarships aimed at supporting talented students in the arts and digital disciplines. These scholarships are often merit-based and can significantly reduce the financial burden of tuition fees. Furthermore, students are encouraged to consider part-time work opportunities on campus or within the local community, which can provide additional income to support living expenses.

In addition to scholarships and loans, the university offers bursaries and grants to students facing financial hardship, aiming to ensure that financial circumstances do not hinder their academic pursuits. The university’s Financial Support Office provides tailored advice to students on available funding options, application processes, and eligibility criteria.

Students pursuing the Digital Artist programme are also encouraged to look into external funding sources, including industry-sponsored scholarships, art foundations, and creative industry grants, which occasionally support students demonstrating exceptional talent or financial need. The university’s strong links with the creative industries can sometimes facilitate internship opportunities and sponsored projects that offer financial or in-kind support.

Students should carefully review the specific financing options available for their residency status and nationality, as eligibility and available support can vary. Detailed information about tuition fees, scholarships, bursaries, and loan schemes is available on the university’s official website and through the student finance office. Planning finances early and exploring all available options can greatly assist students in managing their educational expenses effectively throughout their studies in Digital Art at the University of Kent.

Digital Artist is a dynamic and creatively demanding undergraduate degree programme offered by the University of Kent, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of digital art and creative technologies. The programme combines theoretical understanding with practical application, covering a broad spectrum of disciplines such as digital illustration, 3D modeling, animation, multimedia production, and interactive media. Students are encouraged to develop their unique artistic voice while mastering the technical skills required to execute their ideas through various digital platforms.

The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of both traditional art fundamentals and innovative digital techniques. Students are introduced to industry-standard software and hardware, including programs like Adobe Creative Suite, Blender, Maya, and Unity, ensuring they are proficient in current technological tools. Alongside technical skill development, the programme emphasizes critical thinking, conceptual development, and the ability to critique digital artworks. This balanced approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for careers in game design, digital illustration, animation studios, advertising, multimedia companies, and other creative sectors.

Throughout the course, students have numerous opportunities for hands-on experience, including collaborative projects, internships, and exhibitions. The programme also offers pathways into postgraduate study and research, fostering lifelong learning and continuous professional development. With a strong emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, students are encouraged to develop their portfolios and explore new mediums and genres of digital art.

The University of Kent’s Digital Artist course benefits from experienced faculty members who are active practitioners and researchers in their fields. The campus provides state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated computer labs, digital studios, and exhibition spaces, creating an inspiring environment for creative exploration. The programme aims to foster a vibrant community of artists, designers, and technologists who can collaborate and push the boundaries of digital art.

Graduates of the Digital Artist programme are equipped not only with technical skills but also with a flexible, creative mindset that is highly valued in diverse industries. The programme’s focus on industry relevance, combined with a supportive academic environment, helps students transition smoothly into professional roles, start their own creative ventures, or pursue advanced studies. Overall, the University of Kent’s Digital Artist programme offers a comprehensive, immersive experience for aspiring digital artists eager to make their mark in a digital-first world.