In this module students are asked to examine contemporary visual culture in all of its various forms. It takes as its starting point that visual culture does not exist in isolation, but rather has been formed and continues to be shaped by the ideologies and philosophies of the society in which it exists.

It is an inquiry based module in which students are introduced to societal and ethical topics and these are then examined by reference to specific media. It accepts that contemporary visual culture is multifaceted and, as such it examines, but is not limited to such media as film, television, documentary, social media, the gaming industry, animation, advertising, photography and fine art.

1. Exhibit a detailed knowledge of the multiplicity of theoretical approaches concerningvisual culture.

2. Appraise therelationship between culture andsociety.

3. Research the representation of a relevant topic and present findings as a finalised video-essay.

4. Participate in and contribute to seminars and discussions.

5. Formulate a suitable topic for examination forthe final year’s ‘Research Project / Dissertation’.

This common module builds on skills from 3D Modelling 1, focusing on 3D design, animation, and content creation in both animation and game design. Students will concentrate on character modelling and animation, using industry-standard software to develop workflows and bring 2D designs to life as animated 3D models. The module emphasises creating and presenting animated characters, whether for traditional or interactive platforms, and further develops students' abilities in design, content capture, and interactive animation principles within an industry-focused setting.

1. Utilise suitable capture and recording processes for replicating real word content and movement within animation and game design

2. Create character designs and develop a 3D character from concept to animation.

3. Demonstrate good design planning in the creation of UVMaps and Material / Texturing within a 3D mapping workflow.

4. Exercise appropriate judgement in implementing suitable methods for Rigging and Animation

5. Create Lightmappings andAdvanced UVmapping techniques

6. Create a short character animation demonstrating key principles of animation

7. Demonstrate proficiency in applying advanced materials to 3D models

On this module learners apply the skills of animation and develop their practical application of animation principles using both traditional techniques and digital technology.

1. Develop 2D characters and environments which exhibit the assimilation of animation design principles.

2. Construct layouts and backgrounds that incorporate principles of composition, perspective and colour using a variety of techniques

3. Create an original 2D animation incorporating a range of artistic styles and techniques

4. Coordinate and manage the production of a collaborative short animated project.

5. Integrate the appropriate technology effectively in the development of 2D digital animation projects.

6. Prepare and produce a short stop-motion animation using stop-motion software.

7. Set up and utilise green screen lighting for effective green-screen compositing

8. Utilise compositing software to remove green screen and undertake clean-up compositing on an animated film

9. Demonstrate sensitivity to character physicality using both 2D and stop-motion techniques

10. Incorporate the use of sound inc. music, FX, and dialogue into an animated project.

This module builds on the basic skills gained in 'Digital Tools' in Stage1 and aims to expand on its core concepts in greater depth as well as introducing new tools and applications. The students will develop a critical and practical framework which enables them to realize their ideas through the competent use of a variety of digital practices.

1. Conceptualize, develop, and transform,an original idea, across a range of digital processes.

2. Evaluate and competently apply the various digital processes being delivered in the module.

3. Integrate relevant workflow practices in the creation of projects

4. Self-regulate their time management

5. Produce high-quality submissions exhibiting all the processes delivered in the module.

6. Critically evaluate their own ideas.

In this module learners will investigate how game art and level design acts as an essential mechanism in motivating gameplay. Learners will examine various advanced level design techniques. Learners will explore game narrative and interactivity in the context with game level design and genre. Learners will demonstrate an understanding of game design techniques specific to analog game

1. Evaluate what an intuitive game consists of and how the gameplay is structured.

2. Identify the appropriate skills and technical abilities necessary for production planning and management of an innovative game design.

3. Demonstrate how to create original game systems and rules structures

4. Identify various advanced level design techniques used in game design

5. Evaluate the roll of game art in progressing game narrative and motivating gameplay

6. Apply game design principles specific to analog game

Learners will examine conceptual research, artwork and design for an original game design project. Learners will apply level design techniques to an original game project in a game engine. Learners will examine various method of game development for multiple platforms. Learners will apply advanced game scripting algorithms. Learner will apply advanced in engine animation transition techniques and statement machines.

1. Identify the appropriate skills and technical abilities necessary for production planning and management of an innovative game design.

2. Demonstrate gaming industry best practices to research and implement an original game design concept

3. Demonstrate advanced game designtechniques and practises in the production of a diverse online gamesportfolio .

4. Identify the implicationsto the design process associated with developing a game on multiple platform

5. Demonstrate conceptual research techniques in the development of a game design project

6. Demonstrate theapplicationadvanced game scripting algorithms

7. Demonstrate theapplication state machines and other advanced animation transition techniques

A practical workshop-based module exploring the fundamentals of drawing and the development of effective and creative visual communication through drawing. The formal elements of drawing and observational skills are developed through a variety of methods and media relevant to the areas of Animation and Game Design. The student will be equipped with a knowledge and understanding of visual communication skills, drawing processes and the relevance of drawing within the area of creative media.

1. Demonstrate technical skills and competence in the use of drawingtechniques, materialsand media

2. Display an ability touse drawingin order tocreate a variety of design tasks needed in animation and game design studios

3. Assimilate, critique and evaluate ideas and concepts in relation to historical and contemporary drawingstyles inanimation andgamedesign

4. Develop a personal voice through drawing, whichcan be appliedand adapted to various studio tasks

5. Engage with and participate in drawing workshop activities.

6. Conduct analytical research through observation and drawing from nature and to utilize this visual research in the ideation of their own design ideas

7. Identify areas of strength and weakness in their own drawing skill set and to develop strategies to improve and strengthen them further

8. Demonstrate the ability to plan, produce and present concept and drawings in a professional manner

An introduction to sound, focussing on studio sound theory and practical for the purposes of creating soundtracks for animation. Theory, operation, (voice) recording and mixing.

1. Demonstrate a good overall knowledge of audio recording processes and practices

2. Construct a complete soundtrack for a short video piece

3. Demonstrate a developed understanding of creating and mixing sound for sync picture

4. Implement basic recording and mixing tasks in a sound studio.

5. Distinguish and differentiate between the various layers of audio that make up a soundtrack.

6. Explain the principles of sound design for moving pictures

On this module learners study digital narrative techniques as they pertain to animation and game design. Learners will examine how digital narrative can be an engaging and significant form of communication as they assess methods of incorporating narrative and visual techniques into contemporary game design and animation practices. This is a common module.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the theories of narrative structure

2. Explore and present a proposal for a digital story in a visual format

3. Generate and design a story narrative in an appropriate digital format using current technologies incorporating interesting plots, subplots and gameplay

4. Evaluate the effectiveness of how a game narrative can be synthesised by a user.

5. Understand traditional narrative story techniques, such as the three-act structure, and how this corresponds to game flow.

This module focusses on how to manage and monitor the key aspects of a media project: People, Time and Resources.

1. Construct a production schedule for a media project.

2. Develop and design the production pipeline for a project.

3. Appraise the propriety and efficacy of various troubleshooting methods formedia projects

4. Implement best practices in planning (budgeting and scheduling) for a media production

5. Identify the elements of the key stages of the production process.

The aim of this module is to introduce students to cultural theory, contextual research and critical analysis in the context of games and animation, with a focus on ethical, social and political considerations.

Students will develop the ability to research, analyse, reflect upon and effectively communicate historical, contemporary and emerging issues within contemporary critical practice in the sphere of gaming and animation.

1. Develop a critical awareness of ethical discourse, with respect to gaming culture, animated content and media.

2. Evaluate and critique key current issues in critical and theoretical debate in regard to gaming and animation.

3. Design and deliver a presentation that confidently articulates insightful opinions about gaming and animation content, using relevant terminology.

4. Develop the ability to evaluate games and animated content, recognising their position within appropriate historical and theoretical frameworks; and demonstrate a clear understanding of how they align with contemporary socioeconomic issues

5. Cultivate an awareness of social and cultural concerns in the production of animation content and games pertaining to inclusivity, representation, and diversity.

This module will deliver to the learner project pitching and promotional skills and introduce the concept of entrepreneurship: From sourcing funding for a project, to running a production company.

1. Convincingly pitch a project idea in writing

2. Generate marketing tools specific to individual projects.

3. Develop and author promotional PR text for a specific project.

4. Outline the entrepreneurial role of the producer.

5. Proficiently and persuasively complete an application form for project funding.

6. Investigate and evaluate sources of funding for media projects, films, and start-ups.

This module is designed to facilitate students developing a digital portfolio which can be used as a tool to facilitate and enhance student placements, personal and professional development and job-seeking skills. A portfolio is an internationally recognised asset which can be transferable through a student's life on into their professional one.

1. Effectively construct a polished and professional portfolio website, with attention to both its design and professional content.

2. Creatively and aesthetically create a demo reel that showcases your value as a designer, including graphic and audio-visual content.

3. Demonstrate on-going professional development.

4. Develop a personal statement and curriculum vitae appropriate to a digital platform.

5. Demonstrate reflective practice, outlining ideas for further professional development, career direction or aspirations and commentary on your chosen profession.

This module is designed to provide learners with the support and tuition to pursue independent research and writing leading to specialist knowledge on a selected topic within their Media discipline. On completion of this module students should have an understanding of the theory, concepts, sources and methods pertaining to a selected field of Media that they have chosen for the purposes of compiling a 7,500-word long dissertation based on original research.

1. Develope an understanding of the theory, concepts, sources and methods pertaining to a selected field of mediathat they have chosen for the purposes of compiling a 7,500-word long dissertation.

2. Acquire a detailed knowledge and understanding in a specialised area of Media, relevant to their programme and electives.

3. Possess the kind of knowledge required to design, execute and complete an independent written piece of Media research using both primary and secondary sources.

4. Appraise literature across the various disciplines concerned with their Media research topic.

5. Differentiate between both descriptive and analytical techniques and apply towritten narratives, and comprehend many practical and organisational problems associated with conducting independent work.

6. Act effectively under guidance in a peer relationship with their dissertation supervisor.

7. Defend research findings to a panel in a VIVA. This will provide them with an intellectual opportunity to verbally and graphically explain the rationale behind their choice of dissertation topic, the methodologies of their investigation, their key research findings, and the validity of their conclusions and recommendations. Oral discussion of the work will also enable the panel to evaluate the students overall grasp of the issues raised in the dissertation, and to gauge their understanding of any limitations over the nature and scope of the research undertaken.

The learner will demonstrate advanced skills in researching and analysing a range of design concepts and inquire into the appropriate application of these to various genres in animation. Learners will also study innovative and inclusive work practices and consider sustainable production models.

1. Evaluate the environmental impact of various animation production processes

2. Identify, analyse and evaluate innovative production and design trends in the worldwide animation industry

3. Analyse a variety of genres in animation and appraise their underlying concepts

4. Identify and critique outmoded stereotypes as well as problematic content and consider a more inclusive approach

5. Conduct self-directed research

6. Assemble, evaluate and clearly communicate the results of their chosen research area

On this module learners apply the skills of animation and develop their practical application using digital technology and/or stop-motion techniques.

Learners will create a high-quality collaborative animation project and maintain a digital portfolio of project work demonstrating their ability in animation, drawing, design and storytelling.

1. Design and producea collaborative animation project and individual project work

2. Formulate creative solutions to arising problems

3. Author original ideas, demonstrating an understanding of the conventions of visual story telling

4. Appraise and evaluate their contribution to group projects and their performance of individual work.

5. Apply the knowledge about the workflow of a short animation production and the demonstrate the ability to self-manage their time accordingly

6. Demonstrate an ability to work constructively in a team and contribute significantly to a collaborative project

7. Interpret and competently executeindustry-standard brief/s.

8. Demonstrate technical skills and competence in the use of a variety of animation techniques, materials and digital tools

In this module learners will undertake industry client briefs which will give an opportunity to work with current industry professionals, and gain an insight and experience into current industry trends and techniques.The learner will assimilate a comprehensive study of game design with an understanding of the capabilities and benefits of different hardware platforms as well as familiarity with software technologies and techniques appropriate to each platform. The learner will exhibit a knowledge of industry processes and techniques required to deliver an original and creative game design project. The Learner will apply lighting mapping techniques to 3D environments suitable to multiple platform. Learners will apply standard in game engine AI features available across multiple engines

1. Synthesise the knowledge and practical application of game design to address an industry standard client brief

2. Develop a final game design project, showing afluency in a range of 2D and 3D graphics and animation packages to support the research, planning, modelling, prototyping and testing.

3. Engage with gaming industry best practices and display a thorough understanding of professional practice.

4. Adapt to new technologies and environments in a creative and strategic manner with a confidence to learn new skills and methodologies.

5. Implement a range of platform specific design techniques for an original game concept.

6. Apply lighting mapping techniques to 3D game world environments.

7. Develop AI game component the use game engine AI features

8. Engage with gaming industry best practices when evaluate the UX design for an original game concept.

9. Develop a cohesive UI design for a particular game genre and art style.

The learner will demonstrate advanced skills in researching, planning, modelling, prototyping and testing during the production cycle to deliver a final game design project. Learners will also study the psychology of gaming and its implications in terms of copyright and ethics. Learner will examine monetization strategies for game and the ethical impact of these strategies. Learners will also study the psychology of gaming and its implications in terms of level design. Learner will develop a basic understanding of the principles of UX and UI design.

1. Investigate audience engagementin context of historical, cultural, sociological and psychological aspects of animated games

2. Evaluate and understand the cultural and social conventions and be cognisant of their ethical implications on game design

3. Outline the variousmonetization strategies used by the games industry and their ethical implications

4. Evaluate and understand the psychology of gaming and its implications in terms of level design

5. Developan original game concept using advanced skills in researching, planning.

6. Understand the implication of UX design principles for game design

This advanced elective module is available to Animation students and builds on skills from 3D Modelling 1 and 2, focusing on 3D modelling and animation for the film and television industry. Students will follow the animation production pipeline from script to final short, creating unique animated productions to showcase their creative vision. Emphasis is placed on enhancing skills and building a portfolio for careers in film and TV production. By integrating the 3D production and animation pipelines, students will develop projects that feature environment design, character animation, and narrative storytelling. Transferable 3D skills in fields like industrial design, VFX, VR, and AR will also be encouraged, supporting a versatile portfolio for animated film and TV production.

1. Investigate advanced modelling and animation techniques with 3D FX systems, and Virtual Production

2. Integrate technology effectively in the creation an animation incorporating 3D modelling and post production skills

3. Adapt individual workflows to suit a professional group based production pipeline for 3D output

4. Design an original 3D Animation incorporating a range of artistic styles and techniques

5. Produce a production design notebook demonstrating designs, concepts and artistic styles

6. Integrate audio with visual media outputs

7. Articulate critical thinking techniques

This advanced elective module is available to Game Design students and builds on skills from 3D Modelling 1 and 2, focusing on 3D modelling and animation specifically for the games industry. Students will create game art and animated assets to showcase unique creative outputs, enhancing their skills and portfolios for a career in game design. The module emphasises workflow advancement within a 3D production pipeline, covering environment design, character animation, and real-time video production in a game engine. Students will also develop transferable 3D skills applicable to industrial design, VFX, VR, and AR, with a focus on building a comprehensive game design portfolio.

1. Develop detailed 2D artwork references for game characters and environments

2. Construct an original 3D character which demonstrates the key principles of animation as they relate to Game Design

3. Integrate technology effectively in the creation an 3D Game Levelusing a range of techniques including modelling, lighting, textures, lightmapping, and real-time rendering to showcase student work.

4. Create a character animation portfolio for game design, showcasing, design, rigging, animation and concept work

5. Create a 3D animated title scene for a computer game, demonstrating mass FX, and post-production and sound design

6. Construct workflows for 3D modelling, and Animation for Game Design

7. Articulate critical thinking techniques within work process