Animation BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the Animation BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA), a dynamic undergraduate degree designed for aspiring animators passionate about bringing stories to life. This course immerses you in the fundamental principles of animation, from traditional drawing techniques that capture movement to contemporary digital workflows. You will explore diverse animation techniques and develop a strong understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion within creative practice, preparing you to contribute thoughtfully to the industry. This programme is ideal for students eager to master the craft of animation and build a compelling professional portfolio from the outset.

This full-time, on-campus programme is structured over four years, including an integral professional practice year in your third year. You will engage in a blend of interdisciplinary workshops, seminars, and practical projects, such as group films, client briefs, and creating a professionally finished short film for international festivals. You will develop essential skills in areas like character design, visual storytelling, and industry practices, culminating in a significant graduation film and a showreel. Upon completion, you will graduate with the creative, technical, and professional expertise needed to pursue diverse career paths in animation studios, game development, or visual effects worldwide.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Animation with Professional Practice Year program equips students with foundational animation principles and industry practices. Through a series of projects, including group films, short films, and a graduate film, students will develop their creative and technical skills. The curriculum emphasizes portfolio development, research, and reflection, preparing graduates for professional careers in animation. An optional professional practice year offers valuable real-world experience.

1 Year 1

Launch
Animation Principles
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Public Exhibition
Opportunity - 24-hour film challenge
Group Film
Animation Industry Practices
Animator’s Portfolio
ATOM Activities
PLE Digital Outcome

2 Year two

Launch week
Short Film
The Conscious Practitioner
Opportunity Week – Game Jam
Research, Reflection and Practice
Client Brief
ATOM Activities
PLE Digital Outcome
Elective units

3 Professional practice year (if undertaken)

4 Year three

Launch – Professional Practice
Pre-production and Pitch
Opportunity Week
Dissertation
Graduate Film

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,709.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 572.00 - USD 1,227.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on UCA Farnham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAnimation & Visual EffectsBanking & Financial ServicesDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEarly Childhood & Primary EducationMedia Production & EditingMedia Research & AnalyticsMusic & Performing ArtsPhotojournalism & Visual MediaRestaurant & Food Service

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Apple

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

IBM

Marks & Spencer

Sainsbury's

Tesco

University of the Arts London

Why Study Animation BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University for Creative Arts (UCA) in United Kingdom

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 BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in a degree program, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Centre International de Liaison des Ecoles de Cinéma et de Télévision (CILECT).

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, minimum scores vary by test: TOEFL requires an overall score of 80, IELTS needs an overall score of 6.0, and PTE requires a score of 59.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various careers such as Animator, Storyboard Artist, 3D Modeler, Visual Effects Artist, or Game Designer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This four-year program offers a unique opportunity to spend an entire year gaining industry experience. Key subjects include animation techniques and professional practice.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Animation BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year program starts in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application in advance.
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