BA Animation

The BA Animation course offers a comprehensive foundation designed to prepare you for a career in the creative industries. You will begin by learning core principles of high-quality animation, 3D modelling, lighting and rendering, motion graphics, character and creature animations.

In your final year, the focus will shift to building a professional showreel and collaborating with peers from other creative disciplines. You will also have the opportunity to work closely with industry professionals through guest lectures, live briefs, and workshops, gaining valuable real-world insight and experience.

The course is delivered through a combination of teaching methods, including hands-on classes, weekly seminars, video-based lectures, and peer collaboration.

Assessments are primarily practical, reflecting industry-standard tasks, while also developing your Critical analysis and evaluation skills through essays and presentations.

Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) is a modern institution with a strong heritage dating back to 1891. Originally established as the School of Science and Art, it gained full university status in 2007. Known for its commitment to creativity, innovation, and industry relevance, BNU is particularly renowned for its programmes in animation, visual effects, game art, media, and the wider creative industries.

The university is home to the School of Creative and Digital Industries, which offers a range of cutting-edge courses designed in collaboration with industry professionals. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including motion capture studios, green screen rooms, sound design suites, and high-performance computing labs. 

A standout feature is BNU’s virtual production studio and ProArt Lab, equipped with industry-standard tools such as Xsens motion capture suits and Faceware kits, reflecting current trends in professional workflows.

BNU is consistently recognised for student satisfaction, academic support, and teaching quality. Graduates have gone on to work at renowned studios such as Rockstar Games, MPC, DNEG, Framestore, and Creative Assembly. This strong focus on employability, combined with a supportive learning environment and cutting-edge resources, makes BNU a favourite choice for anyone aspiring to enter the creative industry.

To apply, candidates must submit a personal statement explaining their interest in the course and any relevant academic background. An academic or employer reference is also required. Applicants may upload a CV to showcase relevant work experience.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants require 88-112 or an A level, T level, BTEC, or Access to Higher Education
• An international equivalent qualification is also accepted
• Applicants for this course also need GCSE maths at grade c/4 or above.

English Proficiency:

• Applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds must achieve a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in each component.
• Equivalent test scores, such as TOEFL or PTE, are also accepted.

For international students enrolling in the BA Animation programme at Buckinghamshire New University for the 2025/2026 academic year, the tuition fee is £15150.

At BNU, we offer a variety of scholarships and bursaries to support our students. These awards provide financial assistance based on academic achievement, household income, or personal circumstances. They do not need to be repaid, but each comes with specific eligibility criteria that should be reviewed carefully before applying.

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared to pursue a range of careers, including roles such as:

• Animator
• Character Designer
• Storyboard Artist
• Motion Graphics Designer
• Visual Effects (VFX) Artist

Candidates interested in this course can apply through UCAS or by using the university’s international application form. For personalised guidance, contact one of our trained counsellors.