Visual Effects for Film, TV and Animation– BSc (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Visual Effects for Film, TV and Animation–BSc (Hons) at the Technological University of The Shannon is designed for aspiring creators passionate about bringing imaginative worlds to life on screen. If you're captivated by the magic of modern visual effects and enjoy creating your own digital content, this undergraduate degree will equip you with the artistic flair and technical expertise demanded by the film, television, and animation industries. You will explore fundamental principles of 3D modelling, animation, compositing, and digital sculpting, developing a strong foundation in visual communications and interactive programming.

This full-time, on-campus programme spans four years, immersing you in a hands-on learning environment. You will progress through modules covering everything from character rigging and motion capture to advanced compositing and virtual reality development. A key feature of the course is the opportunity for an employment placement in your third year, providing invaluable industry experience. You will culminate your studies with a major VFX project and a professional portfolio, preparing you for diverse career paths in visual effects artistry, technical direction, and digital media creation within studios and production companies worldwide.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BSc (Hons) program in Visual Effects for Film, TV and Animation provides a comprehensive foundation in digital art and animation techniques. You will explore 3D modeling, animation fundamentals, compositing, concept art, and digital sculpting. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics such as matchmoving, matte painting, technical direction for effects, and virtual reality, culminating in major projects and portfolio development to prepare you for industry roles.

1 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 1

3D Modelling I – Introduction to Modelling for Animation
Animation I Fundamentals
Digital Photography
Drawing Principles I
Interpersonal Development
Visual Communications I

2 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 2

3D Animation: Introduction to 3D Animation
3d Modelling II – Characters and Creatures
Compositing I: Fundamentals
Concept Art I
Interactive Programming I
Materials & Lighting for Animation

3 YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1

Interactive Programming II
Matchmove
Media Capture and Editing
Pre-Visualization and Layout
Rigging I Creatures and Characters

4 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 1

Concept Art II, Digital Sculpting
Effects I Fundamentals
Matte Painting & Environments
Portfolio
Professional Development
Rigging II Character Performance

5 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 2

Compositing III, Advanced Comp
Employment Placement
Project Management for Animation
Short Film/CG Project II

6 YEAR 4 SEMESTER 1

Effects II Technical Direction
Major VFX Project
Scripting & Digital tool creation for Technical Directors
Virtual Reality

7 YEAR 4 SEMESTER 2

Emerging Technologies and Trends in Digital Media
Major VFX Project
Portfolio II
The Entertainment and Media Industry

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
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 63,523.00

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 Clonmel Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

CybersecurityEarly Childhood & Primary EducationPharmaceutical ManufacturingProduct Design & PrototypingQuality Assurance & ControlRegulatory & Government AffairsRegulatory Affairs & ComplianceRoad Transport & LogisticsSocial Media & Content StrategySports & Athletics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Atlantic Technological University

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Dell Technologies

Ericsson

IBM

Microsoft

National Gallery of Ireland

Why Study Visual Effects for Film, TV and Animation– BSc (Hons) 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 Visual Effects for Film, TV and Animation– BSc (Hons) 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 English language requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Each test has specific score thresholds that must be met for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Visual Effects Artist, 3D Animator, Compositor, and Motion Graphics Designer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BSc in Visual Effects for Film, TV and Animation focuses on developing both artistic and technical abilities. You'll learn industry-leading content creation tools and workflows applicable in film, television, and animation.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The course intake is in September each year. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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