BA (Hons) CGI and Visual Effects

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a dynamic career in the creative industries with the BA (Hons) CGI and Visual Effects degree at Southampton Solent University. This course is designed for aspiring artists and technicians eager to master the tools and techniques behind stunning digital visuals, from blockbuster film effects to immersive architectural visualisations and real-time CGI for games. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the VFX pipeline, developing essential skills in 3D modelling, texturing, lighting, rendering, and animation. This programme prepares you to tackle the challenges and opportunities within the rapidly evolving world of digital art and visual effects.

You will study this course full-time on campus over three years, immersing yourself in practical projects that mirror industry demands. Your learning journey will encompass modules such as Introduction to VFX, Digital Visuals, Compositing, and Set Capture, where you will learn to create complex simulations and capture essential on-set data. In your final year, you will undertake a significant Final Major Project, allowing you to showcase your specialised skills and build a compelling portfolio. You will graduate with the technical proficiency and creative vision needed to pursue roles in film, television, gaming, and architectural visualisation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive education in Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) and Visual Effects (VFX). Students will explore foundational 3D and VFX principles, digital visuals, and real-time CGI, alongside animation and architectural visualization in their first year. Subsequent years delve into advanced topics such as VFX simulation, set capture, digital character creation, compositing, and production workflows, culminating in a final major project or dissertation. Optional modules allow for specialization in areas like advanced drawing, technical art, art for CGI/VFX, and scripting for graphics.

1 Year one

Introduction to 3D
Introduction to VFX
Digital Visuals
Real-Time CGI
Introduction to Animation
Architectural Visualisation

2 Year two

VFX/Simulation
Set Capture
Digital Character
Compositing
CGI/VFX Commentary

3 Optional modules

Advanced Drawing
Technical Art

4 Final year

Production Brief
Pre-Production
Final Major Project

5 Optional modules

Dissertation
Art for CGI/VFX
Scripting for Graphics

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,791.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,375.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 693.00 - USD 1,552.00
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 East Park Terrace campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAerospace Engineering & DesignAerospace Research & AcademiaAerospace Supply Chain & LogisticsBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesJournalism & ReportingLogistics & Warehouse ManagementMedia Research & AnalyticsPublic Broadcasting & DocumentarySupply Chain & Procurement

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BAE System

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Ikea

Sky Group

Why Study BA (Hons) CGI and Visual Effects at Southampton Solent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Southampton Solent University 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 BA (Hons) CGI and Visual Effects at Southampton Solent University

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No additional work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, or IELTS. For example, Duolingo requires an overall score of 115 with specific comprehension, conversation, and literacy scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include VFX Artist, 3D Character Designer, Motion Graphics Designer, and Visual Effects Supervisor.

What will I actually study in this course?

Course overview

This is a thriving sector in the UK, and Solent’s CGI and Visual Effects degree can take you in so many directions, from explosive film VFX to 3D character design, from architectural visualisation to motion graphics, from virtual production to motion capture.

You will grow from a strong foundation of skills taught during your first year to become a fully industry-ready practitioner in the direction of your choosing. Our top-quality teaching, as

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the BA (Hons) CGI and Visual Effects course in either January or September each year. Choose the intake that best fits your schedule and goals.
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