Digital Art & Animation for Visual Effects (VFX) & Virtual Production
This full time, 2-year course equips students with vital knowledge and skills for success in the dynamic fields of Visual Effects, Virtual Production, and Animation. Delivered through a blend of practical projects and theoretical learning, it's an ideal platform for those seeking to excel in these cutting-edge areas.
| Award Name | Degree - Foundation at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Foundation at UK Level 5 | Open University |
Duration
2 years full-time.
Entry Requirements
Higher Education Entry Criteria
Each Higher Education programme has its own distinctive entry requirements. This is set as a minimum UCAS points for entry. On some programmes, applicants must also hold subject specific qualifications to gain a place. Therefore, it is essential that you check entry requirements for each programme you are applying for. Please note, these are qualifications that applicants must have completed and certified to gain entry onto the respective programmes.
Applicants must hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in both English Language and Mathematics. Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number and Essential Skills Literacy may be regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths and English.
We recognise that prior learning or experience may give some students credit towards a qualification to gain entry onto a programme or credit towards a programme of study. Please refer to our Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process.
Please also note: The College reserves the right to increase the entry requirements for all Higher Education provision based on demand and required academic standards, as specified by the Awarding Body/validating organisation.
Applicants applying to programmes validated by university partners (UU, QUB and OU) who hold international qualifications must provide certificates to determine equivalence before an offer can be made.
64 UCAS Points.
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) for HE CoursesAPL allows you to use evidence from prior learning or experience to gain entry onto a course at Belfast Met. Belfast Met will work with you to make sure that relevant learning or work experience is formally recognised through the APL Process. For more information see Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) Process - Guidance for applicants. If you would like more information, or if you decide you would like to use the APL process, please contact the Course Co-ordinator. Contact details are provided at the end of these slides and on the course details page on Belfast Met website.
Further information
Start Date: 09/09/2024. End Date: 11/06/2026.
e3
Academic period 2024:
Tuition Fee = £3050.00
Academic period 2025*:
Tuition Fee = £3050.00
Fees are payable annually.
*The fees for 2024 and 2025 have not been finalised and will be updated as soon as agreed.
Entry Year: 09/09/2024.
How to Apply
Make sure you apply as early as you can to increase your chance of getting onto your first choice course. Remember, you can apply for up to five courses!
Ready to make your application? Please click on "Application Weblink".
Overview
Unlock your full potential on our Foundation Degree in Digital Art and Animation for Visual Effects and Virtual Production at Belfast Metropolitan College.
As an Epic Games Academic Partner, we are uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled expertise in Unreal Engine, a cornerstone in today's Visual Effects and Virtual Production sectors. This course is meticulously designed to integrate your artistic and technical talents into professional production pipelines. You will learn industry-standard techniques/software to create digital content, gaining skills that are in high demand in the Animation, Visual Effects and Virtual Production industries. With commitment and effort, you are set to emerge production-ready, equipped with the knowledge and experience sought after in the industry.
This full time, 2-year course equips students with vital knowledge and skills for success in the dynamic fields of Visual Effects, Virtual Production, and Animation. Delivered through a blend of practical projects and theoretical learning, it's an ideal platform for those seeking to excel in these cutting-edge areas.
Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of core skills:
- Virtual Production Technology and Practices: Training in virtual production technologies, including practical LED volume experience.
- Pre and Post-Visualisation Techniques: Mastery in developing both pre-vis and post-vis sequences using industry-standard software such as Nuke and Unreal Engine.
- Virtual Art Department: Intensive training in Unreal Engine for roles in Virtual Art Departments including areas such as World Building.
- 3D Modelling, Rigging, and Advanced Editing: Proficiency in 3D model creation and manipulation with Autodesk Maya, ZBrush and Substance Painter.
- Principles of Animation and Motion Capture: Understanding animation fundamentals and hands-on motion capture experience.
- In-Camera VFX and Real-Time Game Engine Use: Skills in merging real-world and virtual elements using Unreal Engine.
- Tech-Visualisation: Leveraging technology for accurate visual representations, essential for scene conceptualisation.
- Cinematography Essentials: Developing skills in camera work, shot composition, and visual storytelling.
Assets 1
Level 4 / 40
Coursework
Assets 2
Level 4 / 40
Coursework
Pipelines 1
Level 4 / 20
Coursework
Pipelines 2
Level 4 / 20
Coursework
State-of-the-Art Facilities at E3 Studios, Belfast:
- 450sqft LED Virtual Production Stage
- Vicon Motion Capture Stage
- XR Technology (HoloLens, Meta Quest, HTC Vive)
- Fully-equipped TV Studio
- Audio Production/Recording Suite
- High-end PC Workstations
- Software and Tools: Key software includes Unreal Engine, Nuke, Autodesk Maya, Adobe Creative Suite, Substance Painter, ZBrush, Shotgrid and Perforce.
Contact Us
Tel: 028 9026 5394
Email: creativedigital@belfastmet.ac.uk