BA (Hons) in Visual Effects

“Visual effects involve the integration of live-action footage and generated imagery to create environments which look realistic, but would be dangerous, costly, or simply impossible to capture on film”.

Visual effects (commonly shortened to Visual FX or VFX) can be added to live-action, captured through techniques such as matte painting; rear- and frontscreen projection; miniature or forced perspective sets; computer graphic objects, characters, and environments; and compositing of images recorded in any number of ways. A high demand of CGI has made visual effects more accessible and hence its presence is felt all around us.

The VFX award is for applicants looking for a career in the film, post-production or games industries - although some graduates may move onto positions within archi- tectural visualisation, re-touching/ advertising agencies or postgraduate study. VFX is predominantly about ideas and concept generation for film or games, covering characters, vehicles, products, clothing, sets and environments - ultimately taking those ideas through to finished concept artwork or 3D models.

More than ever, the film and games industries need tangible, exciting plots/scenarios with characters, environments and props to match them. Students develop ideas sometimes as 2D artwork concepts, complemented by accurate 3D digital modelling, coupled with green screen/compositing techniques. Design methodology, concept origination, speculative design, visualisation skills, life drawing, physical sketch and facsimile modelling provide traditional design skills.

PROGRAMME OUTLINE

This programme is specifically designed to provide students with:

• The knowledge and skills to support the study and development of conceptual artwork, digital assets for both film or games industries and visual effects (VFX) work as a creative and dynamic activity. 
• To develop the organisational qualities, communication skills necessary for the effective exchange of ideas, information and teamwork; with particular emphasis on understanding production ‘pipelines’ associated with VFX industries.

DEGREE LEVEL 1

Level 1 of VFX will focus on getting the basics right. The students will be exposed to drawing and concept sketching techniques, creative thinking for visual design, understanding the importance of research and analysis in conceiving a concept. Technically they will be introduced to the VFX workflow via Digital Art and Illustration, 3D Modelling and Compositing Techniques. Team Work, Project Management and Presentation is an integral part of the learning process. 

DEGREE LEVEL 2

In Level 2, the modules strengthen the core skills of the students. Moving on from Year 1 the students are trained to emphasis on critical thinking and problem solving skills. They are exposed to advanced 3D Modelling and Compositing skills on software’s that are currently used by the VFX Industry. The students have the choice of selecting their elective module to strengthen their skills in their field of choice.

INTERNSHIP (16 WEEKS)

Students will undertake a short Internship/ Industrial Training for a minimum period of 16 weeks to prepare them for a smooth transition from the classroom to the working environment.

DEGREE LEVEL 3

In Level 3 the students will be implementing their prior knowledge and skills to create professional portfolio projects as part of the final year projects. From Proposal Pitch, Pre Production, Production and Post Production the students go through the entire process to create their FYP with constant guidance from experts and industry professionals. The students are given the opportunity to exhibit their showreel in an year end show that will involve industry partners and potential employers which provides them the avenue for immediate employment.

MQA COMPULSORY SUBJECTS*