Course summary
The HND in Animation & VFX offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of digital animation and visual effects. This course provides a solid foundation in both creative and technical aspects of the field, allowing you to bring your imaginative ideas to life using industry-standard tools and techniques. Throughout the programme, you will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of work that showcases your skills in animation and VFX, helping you prepare for a future career in this exciting and evolving industry. You will explore all stages of the animation and VFX production process, learning how to create digital content from concept to final product. This includes practical training in software such as MAYA, Z-Brush, and Unreal Engine, which are widely used in the industry. Our workshops will guide you through the key stages of production, covering everything from 3D modelling and character design to visual effects and compositing. By working on real-world projects, you will gain the practical skills needed to thrive in this competitive field. In addition to the hands-on elements of the course, you will also develop your intellectual and critical thinking skills. You will explore the social, cultural, and historical context of animation and VFX, allowing you to understand how these art forms communicate with audiences. This will help you create work that is not only technically proficient but also meaningful and impactful. The HND covers a broad range of topics, ensuring that you gain a well-rounded understanding of the field. You will study areas such as virtual production, motion graphics, and computer animation, giving you the tools to succeed in a variety of creative industries, including film, television, and video games. The course also emphasises problem-solving and creativity, encouraging you to think critically about your work and come up with innovative solutions to complex production challenges.
Modules
Our Philosophy We believe in a holistic approach to learning and teaching that combines creative exploration with technological mastery. Our goal is to equip students with both practical skills and intellectual insights, fostering innovation and professional development throughout their studies. Our staff are passionate artists and animators, dedicated to providing the best support to help your work stand out. We offer opportunities to bring your imagination and storylines to life, find your passion, and realise your dreams. Whether you are interested in film, conceptual design, modelling, or any form of animation, we help you find what you love and bring it to life. Whether 2D, stop frame, 3D — it’s all-immersive in digital animation. Year 1 In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in animation and VFX through modules such as Visual Studies and Introduction to Character Animation. You will explore virtual production, 3D modelling, and environment design, while also developing your academic and professional skills. You will gain insights into animation perspectives and the positive impact of VFX. Academic and Professional Development (10 Credits) Visual Studies (20 credits) Introduction to Virtual Production (20 credits) Introduction to Character Animation (20 credits) Environment Design (20 credits) Introduction to 3D Modelling (10 Credits) Animation Insights and Perspectives (10 Credits) VFX for Positive Impact (10 Credits) Year 2 The second year focuses on advancing your skills with modules like Advanced Character Animation and Body Mechanics and Creature Animation. You will explore virtual production design, experimental animation techniques, and visual effects, while evolving your creative craft. Sound design will complement your visual work, enhancing your overall production quality. Advanced Character Animation (20 credits) Virtual Production Design (20 credits) Body Mechanics and Creature Animation (20 credits) Evolving your Creative Craft (20 Credits) Experimental Animation Techniques (10 Credits) Visual Effects (20 credits) Sound Design (10 Credits)
Assessment method
A lot of the briefs and coursework and submissions ask you to create something fresh, new, inspiring — and all industry leaning. You have creative input on new worlds and imaginings. Visually enriched tutorials, lectures, presentations, overviews and exercises — always with an eye on concept; always thinking on how to extend this work for showreels. Feedback can often be illustrated and/or filled with more visual tips and guides to help with alternative designs, movements, narrative structure, etc, etc. We ask you to engage with some amazing kit. We harness technology — we control it - via drawing, cintiqs, model-making, 2D and 3D software, production techniques and skillsets. We provide a lot of the basics, with specific challenges to get you off the ground — and in HE — ask you to fly high.
How to apply
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- AVF8
- Institution code:
- T80
- Campus name:
- SA1 Waterfront Campus, Swansea
- Campus code:
- T
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 80 points
Student Outcomes
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
College Road
Carmarthen
SA31 3EP