Visual Effects Module Details

First yearSecond yearThird year

First year

Image Capture and Processing
Will introduce you to the basics of image capture using stills and video production technologies. You will learn filmmaking and photographic techniques, from recording initial assets to editing, digitisation, compression and storage.

Foundation 3D
Examines the basics of 3D workflow and introduces you to key platforms such as Maya. 

Compositing Fundamentals
Examines the fundamental basics of compositing still and moving images, text, and 3D content. You will learn how to use software packages, such as Adobe Photoshop and After Effects.

VFX Industry Practice 1
Is designed to introduce you to a number of industry practices, jobs, responsibilities and concepts in Visual Effects (VFX). The module will analyse specific roles within the production pipeline, both in film and VFX.

Second year

Video and Imaging Techniques
Expands your knowledge of using still and moving images for set extensions, using greenscreens, and creating mattes.

3D Modelling and Animation
This module is designed to examine the design and development of 3D assets for Animation and Integration within VFX productions - by introducing complex modelling, rigging and animation techniques for the creation of 3D characters. Students will examine the design and development of 3D character models, their associated assets, and their animation for Visual Effects. Other essential topics will include character design and development, texturing, character and creature rigging, weighting and control, walk cycles and animation, Rotoscope, Motion Capture and performance driven animation, particle and physics simulation, aesthetic, lighting, rendering, and sound for Animation and Visual Effects.

Tracking, Rig Removal, and Compositing
Explores the use of studio environments to prepare content for use during post-production. You will learn to track objects  and remove rigs using programmes such as After Effects and Nuke.

VFX Industry Practice 2
Explores detailed methods and concepts in Visual Effects. It concentrates on the breakdown of visual effects from script, through shot lists, element requirements and how to gather the information needed for the visual effects post-production.

Third year

Technology Project
Gives you the opportunity to negotiate your own production brief and research agenda. You will experiment with new techniques or produce work to a professional standard for collaborative clients. 

Compositing, Matte Painting, and Finishing
In this module, you will concentrate on the 2D aspect of visual effects utilising a range of assets in the production pipeline. You will be introduced to 3D tracking and the 3D workspace in programmes such as Nuke, as well as exporting of 3D data for use in other software. You will perform sophisticated compositing techniques, building on the skills gained in the second year, including the use of film grain, grading, and generating outputs for use in on-line edits and producing finished composites. Matte painting, set extension and texture creation will be covered in depth, and the methods to pass work between different programmes such as Nuke and Photoshop.

Post-production for Video and Film
Examines techniques and issues associated with modern post-production, including digital compositing; computer-generated imagery; special effects; motion graphics and titles; and sound. You will use programmes such as Da Vinci Resolve to enhance the look and finish of film and video footage and learn to emulate film stocks using Look Up Tables to develop a unique aesthetic style of your own.

Set Design, Architecture and Environments 
Consolidates the skills you have developed throughout the course and introduces advanced 3D modelling and animation techniques for set design, architecture, and environments. You will also examine Photorealism, Advanced simulation and the integration of 3D and video in the VFX industry.