Animation and Illustration – BA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The BA in Animation and Illustration at Technological University of The Shannon equips you with the fundamental skills and understanding to excel in the dynamic fields of animation and illustration practice. This undergraduate degree is designed for creative individuals eager to explore the principles of visual storytelling, character design, and digital art. You will develop a strong portfolio and the capacity for independent learning, preparing you for a career in Ireland's thriving creative industries, which produce content for diverse platforms from film and television to video games and virtual reality.

This full-time, on-campus programme is studied over three years, immersing you in a curriculum that balances core subjects like life drawing, animation, and illustration with specialized areas such as environment design and storyboarding. You will engage in practical projects, including scriptwriting and placement preparation, culminating in a significant work placement and studio production in your final year. You will graduate with a Bachelor's Degree, possessing the critical reasoning, analytical, and IT skills essential for creating compelling artwork and launching your professional journey in animation and illustration.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts program provides a comprehensive foundation in animation and illustration. Across three years, students will engage in rigorous study of life drawing, animation principles, and illustration techniques, complemented by modules in environment design and sequential illustration. The curriculum also emphasizes critical and contextual studies, scriptwriting, storyboarding, and practical preparation for professional placements, culminating in studio production and work placement experiences.

1 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 1

Life Drawing 1.1
Animation 1.1
Illustration 1.1
Environment Design 1.1
Critical and Contextual Studies 1.1

2 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 2

Life Drawing 1.2
Animation 1.2
Illustration 1.2
Environment Design 1.2
Sequential Illustration 1
Critical and Contextual Studies 1.2

3 YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1

Life Drawing 2.1
Animation 2.1
Illustration 2.1
Storyboarding 2
Scriptwriting 2
Critical and Contextual Studies 2.1

4 YEAR 2 SEMESTER 2

Life Drawing 2.2
Animation 2.2
Illustration 2.2
Placement Preparation 2
Critical and Contextual Studies 2.2

5 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 1

Life Drawing 3
Animation 3
Illustration 3
Environment Design 3
Studio Preparation 3
Critical and Contextual Studies 3.1

6 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 2

Work Placement 3
Studio Production 3
Critical and Contextual Studies 3.2

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 47,642.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,210.00
Transport USD 562.00 - USD 1,123.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,773.00 - USD 7,438.00

Living cost estimates are based on Athlone Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising Finance & OperationsClinical Trials & DevelopmentData Science & AnalyticsEducation Policy & AdministrationGaming & Interactive MediaHome Health & Long‑Term CarePublic RelationsRoad Transport & LogisticsSales & Medical AffairsSoftware Development & Engineering

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Atlantic Technological University

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Dell Technologies

Eli Lilly and Company

Ericsson

Health Service Executive (HSE)

IBM

Why Study Animation and Illustration – BA at Technological University of The Shannon

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Technological University of The Shannon in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Animation and Illustration – BA at Technological University of The Shannon

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you need an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Ensure you prepare adequately to meet these standards.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Job titles for graduates include Animator, Illustrator, Visual Effects Artist, Storyboard Artist, and Game Designer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program equips students with essential skills in illustration and animation principles. Graduates can expect opportunities in various fields, including animated series and feature films.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake for the BA in Animation and Illustration occurs in September each year. Be sure to apply ahead of time to secure your place.
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