Animation and Visual Effects

Animation and visual effects are the disciplines through which moving images are created, manipulated and composed to tell stories, create worlds and produce illusions that audiences accept as real. Animation encompasses a wide range of techniques and traditions, from hand-drawn and stop-motion approaches to fully three-dimensional computer-generated imagery, and visual effects sit at the boundary between live action and the digital, adding or altering elements of filmed footage through compositing, simulation and digital artistry. Together they represent some of the most technically demanding and creatively exciting work in the contemporary media landscape.

At the University of Lincoln this three-year programme introduces you to the innovative world of animation and visual effects through moving image, digital visualisation and contemporary narrative. You will develop skills across the key areas of both disciplines, including character animation, modelling and rigging, compositing, simulation and effects, learning to work with industry-standard software tools and to bring a coherent creative vision to technically complex production challenges. A sandwich year and work placements give you substantial professional experience in studios, production companies or related creative organisations, developing the portfolio and professional relationships that are central to building a career in this highly competitive sector.

Graduates work across the animation and visual effects industries in roles including animator, 3D artist, compositor, motion graphics designer, VFX artist and technical director. Film and television production, games, advertising, digital content and streaming services are the main employment sectors, alongside the growing market for virtual and augmented reality content. Some graduates develop independent short film or personal project practices alongside commercial work.

Others move into related areas of the creative technology sector. Postgraduate study in animation, visual effects or a related specialism is an option for those who want to develop their skills further or move into research and teaching.