Overview

Unlock your full potential on our Foundation Degree in Digital Art and Animation for Visual Effects and Virtual Production at Belfast Metropolitan College.

As an Epic Games Academic Partner, we are uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled expertise in Unreal Engine, a cornerstone in today's Visual Effects and Virtual Production sectors. This course is meticulously designed to integrate your artistic and technical talents into professional production pipelines. You will learn industry-standard techniques/software to create digital content, gaining skills that are in high demand in the Animation, Visual Effects and Virtual Production industries. With commitment and effort, you are set to emerge production-ready, equipped with the knowledge and experience sought after in the industry.

Program Overview: This full time, 2-year course equips students with vital knowledge and skills for success in the dynamic fields of Visual Effects, Virtual Production, and Animation. Delivered through a blend of practical projects and theoretical learning, it's an ideal platform for those seeking to excel in these cutting-edge areas.

Core Skills and Modules: Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of core skills:

Virtual Production Technology and Practices: Training in virtual production technologies, including practical LED volume experience.
Pre and Post-Visualisation Techniques: Mastery in developing both pre-vis and post-vis sequences using industry-standard software such as Nuke and Unreal Engine.
Virtual Art Department: Intensive training in Unreal Engine for roles in Virtual Art Departments including areas such as World Building.
3D Modelling, Rigging, and Advanced Editing: Proficiency in 3D model creation and manipulation with Autodesk Maya, ZBrush and Substance Painter.
Principles of Animation and Motion Capture: Understanding animation fundamentals and hands-on motion capture experience.
In-Camera VFX and Real-Time Game Engine Use: Skills in merging real-world and virtual elements using Unreal Engine.
Tech-Visualisation: Leveraging technology for accurate visual representations, essential for scene conceptualisation.
Cinematography Essentials: Developing skills in camera work, shot composition, and visual storytelling.

State-of-the-Art Facilities at E3 Studios, Belfast:

450sqft LED Virtual Production Stage
Vicon Motion Capture Stage
XR Technology (HoloLens, Meta Quest, HTC Vive)
Fully-equipped TV Studio
Audio Production/Recording Suite
High-end PC Workstations

Software and Tools: Key software includes Unreal Engine, Nuke, Autodesk Maya, Adobe Creative Suite, Substance Painter, ZBrush, Shotgrid and Perforce.

Industry-Experienced Lecturers: Our teaching team at Belfast Metropolitan College is a blend of industry expertise, including an Unreal Authorised Instructor, ensuring top-tier education in Unreal Engine and related technologies. Alongside this specialised expertise, other lecturers on our team bring a wealth of experience from the fields of visual effects and game development. This wealth of knowledge from the front lines of VFX and game development, combined with our commitment to current trends and practices, offers students an unparalleled educational experience that is both comprehensive and deeply connected to the industry's evolving landscape.

Enrichment and Support: We offer extensive support services, including Careers and Employability Service, Student Union spaces, funding advice, services for students with disabilities, counselling, and dedicated safeguarding measures.