Develop comprehensive knowledge and skills of the VFX pipeline including simulations and compositing, collaborate in a dynamic learning environment, and gain industry exposure and industry-standard facilities for a competitive edge in VFX careers.
Why study MA Digital Effects at BU?
Top-Ranking Animation: Study at the UK's top animation school, ranked second in Europe and third globally (Animation Career Review 2023), ensuring you receive education from one of the best institutions in the field. Prestigious Industry Links and Recognition: Benefit from strong connections with leading VFX and animation studios, alongside accreditations from ScreenSkills, the Unreal Academic Partnership, Houdini Certified School, and Rookies Certified School, ensuring you are highly sought after by industry leaders.Comprehensive Skill Development: Become proficient in acquisition filming, 3D animation, and 2D compositing, exploring advanced toolsets like location and green screen acquisition, tracking, 3D modelling, simulation, lighting and 2D integration, preparing you for diverse fields such as films, games, TV, and more.Collaborative Learning Environment: Work on multiple projects individually and with peers across NCCA Master's courses, simulating real-world creative and technical teamwork. Industry Exposure: Attend regular masterclasses and visiting practitioner lectures from top industry specialists, including BU alumni and representatives from companies Industrial Light & Magic, MPC VFX and DNEG. Original Project and Degree Show: Create a substantial and original project during dedicated production time, showcased at an end-of-year degree show attended by top industry recruiters, boosting your employability. State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access industry-standard facilities, including a green screen and motion capture studio, computer labs equipped with Houdini and Nuke, and a full suite of 2D and 3D software, enhancing your hands-on learning experience.BFX Festival: Participate in the annual BFX Festival hosted by Bournemouth University, featuring a week-long schedule of inspiring talks, panels, and masterclasses delivered by industry experts, fostering the next generation of artists, technicians, and engineers.
Study at the National Centre for Computer Animation (NCCA)
The NCCA is one of the most established and highly regarded centres for computer graphics and animation education and research. As one of very few research-intensive animation centres in the UK, our expertise not only ensures our courses remain at the forefront of education, but also helps to define new industry practices.
The NCCA is ranked as the UK’s top animation school, second in Europe and third internationally (Animation Career Review 2022 International Animation School Rankings).
This course is industry-recognised by ScreenSkills, the industry-led skills body for the UK’s screen-based industries, and carries the ScreenSkills Select quality-mark which indicates courses best suited to prepare students for a career in the screen industries.