Buckinghamshire New University

United Kingdom (UK)

Visual Effects | BA(Hons)

About Program

Bachelor Of Arts (Hons)

Visual Effects

Using the latest techniques in 3D computer graphics you’ll learn how to create stunning objects and character, and how to put these into real life footage to make believable scenes that will wow audiences around the world.

ï»¿ Pinewood studios exterior building

Why study this subject?

Whether it is 3D, FX techniques or digital sculpting, a skilled Visual Effects artist can create the illusion of real life. In this industry all roles call for high levels of creativity and passion for storytelling. Your skills will be valuable in any Visual Effects role, including but not limited too;

Commercials
Films
Games
Architectural Visualisation

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

At Buckinghamshire New University they focus on preparing you for work in the industry, helping you to stand out to employers when you graduate. With the right teaching and learning opportunities, it’s possible to turn your passion for visual effects into a rewarding and successful career.

Led by their enthusiastic and dedicated team of industry-savvy practitioners and experienced visual effects, you will have the freedom to explore all areas of visual effects. During your time with Buck's you may also get direct access to guest lectures and can benefit from live project briefs, master classes, and plenty of networking opportunities.

On this dynamic course you’ll have access to all the industry-standard equipment you need to bring your ideas to life, such as a VR lab, motion capture studio and state or the art face capture kit and Xsens suits.

You could also find yourself working at our BNU teaching base at Pinewood Studios. Here you’ll have the opportunity to learn the skills and knowledge you need for your future, all whilst studying right in the heart of the famous creative hub.

BNU's Small group sizes enable staff and students to work together as a friendly and collaborative community of learners. It also means you’ll benefit from more one to one support with your lecturer.

With London only a short journey away, you can take the opportunity to visit some of the world’s best exhibitions, galleries, museums and conventions for inspiration.

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A white sculpture of a dragons skull against a black background

What facilities can you use?

BNU has made sure you have access to industry-standard equipment. Their labs give you access to;

Maya
Nuke
Adobe Creative Cloud
Substance
Renderman
ZBrush.

Most of BNU's 3D animation is currently done in Maya. To combine live TV with computer graphics you will use VizRT. For modelling you’ll use ZBrush, Marvellous Designer and a range of other pieces of software commonly used in industry. They review the list every year.

BNU has the latest equipment used in many films, TV shows and commercials. A motion capture studio, renderfarm, and even VR facilities for this increasingly important area in delivery and development. You’ll have access to a stop motion studio and up-to-date camera equipment.

What will you study?

BNU has structured the course to build up your skills during your time with them and you’ll learn everything you need to know to be career-ready upon graduation. Starting with the fundamentals, you’ll learn the basics of CGI skills and the basics of animation.

If you have no experience of Visual Effects, don’t worry. You’ll get to grips with tools and techniques early on. BNU start with the fundamentals, where you’ll learn the basics of CGI and animation skills. Covering everything you’ll need to create realistic scenes and believable, engaging characters.

You’ll use 3D modelling to create objects and characters and learn about the pipeline of a professional project. Throughout your degree, you’ll learn how to integrate your objects and characters into existing footage to create stunning scenes, which could even include destruction simulation You’ll also learn how to build an organic character using industry standard sculpting and character FX techniques.

By your final year, you’ll have found the specialism you want to focus on in the industry. Your projects will give you the opportunity to hone your skills, work in realistic industry scenarios and have opportunities to collaborate with students on other creative courses at the University.

How will you be taught and assessed?

BNU's teaching team are industry-professionals, with years of experience working in the sector and training future generations of talented digital artists. Through their support and the course, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge you need within the industry.

You’ll also have the opportunity to work with guest lecturers, take part in a range of workshops and work on a load of live briefs. With the busy nature of the studios, and London being so close, there will be a constant flow of talented animators for you to learn from.

Because exams are not very useful in assessing the artistic capability of a Visual Effects Artist, we focus on portfolio-based coursework instead. You’ll keep a reflective journal and learn to give presentations like the professionals. From groom and clothing, to bringing a character to life you’ll be hands-on in gaining the skills you need.

You'll be assessed through individual and group projects which put what you’ve learnt into practice. BNU work with the Visual Effects industry to ensure what you learn during your time on this course is all relevant and up to date with what employers are looking for.

What are your career prospects?

Throughout your time with Buckinghamshier New University they’ll support you on your journey to your chosen career. They will help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising, employable and good leaders. BNU also help you find employment after graduation.

BNU BA (Hons) Visual Effects course will help prepare you for a range of career possibilities in any sector which requires a VFX artist. Our recent alumni have gone onto work for: