3D Art, Animation and VFX (INACTIVE)
See study programmeThis bachelor degree will lead to creative and practical skills within 3D-art, animation and visual effects (VFX) for various types of production. For example, film, TV, VRexperiences, art content for games or visualizations, digital scenography for modern theatre, music festivals, concerts, events for business, and art projects.
Addressing the needs for a variety of productions will strengthen possibilities and broaden the job market for candidates. Common for all areas of production is being able to develop aesthetic visuals, through foundations in storytelling and artistic expression.
The bachelor is offered at the university`s campus in Steinkjer, which has modern computer labs with updated industry standard software. There is also a renderfarm, group production suites, editing suites, and a film studio complete with a 120 m2 green screen stage. The campus offers traditional art supplies such as easels and animation tables. Students also have access to professional film supplies, camera and gear, still cameras and optics, as well as powerful projectors for digital scenography.
Applicants are expected to have foundational IT-skills. A solid competence in English is required to read subject literature, and follow lectures which are all conducted in English.
Nord University has made significant investments in this field of study, and is one of the few universities offering a specialization within the creative and practical part of 3D/VFX. The study program is very production oriented.
In the first year, there is an introduction to various subjects which could become areas of specialization. The five possible areas of specialization in the bachelor include traditional art, 3D-art, animation, technical direction and compositing. In addition, the first year also includes general subjects such as storytelling and animation history.
The second year offers some specialization within chosen areas. The first semester is lecture and practice based, with production periods starting second semester. Film students have coinciding production periods, and collaboration is highly encouraged. The university will also facilitate students wanting to start student companies, which is advisable in the second year.
The third and final year gives the opportunity for further specialization. The first semester is lecture and practice based with advanced courses in smaller classes. The final semester is then dedicated to the bachelor production. Students are encouraged to collaborate across various specializations to achieve the highest possible production quality. It is also possible to collaborate with students from other bachelor studies at the university, such as film or game students. Another option is to compete for attractive internships at various 3D/VFX houses.
The students also take part in arranging an annual international media festival (&Action), with guest lectures from leading studios and other industry professionals. The university also participates at other international conferences.
Project work and entrepreneurship:
The study program focuses on project oriented teamwork. Students will get ties to external clients and must learn to tackle the needs of specific projects, both individually and in groups. There is emphasis on entrepreneurship. The university has connections to local business incubators, and can assist with business mentoring. This is usually a continuation of established student companies, which might already have a client base and wish to professionalize.
Software:
The study program uses industry standard software, including:
- Adobe Creative Cloud
- Trapcode Particular Suite
- Maya
- Mudbox
- UVLayout Pro
- Zbrush
- PTGui
- Mari
- Nuke
- Arnold render
- Pixar Tractor 2
- Resolume
- DaVinci Resolve
- Shotgun Studio
In addition, specialized tools might be required for certain projects.
After complete studies, the candidates should have reached the following learning outcomes:
Skills:
Candidates must be able to communicate visual ideas and should have developed their aesthetic sense. In addition they have experience with industry standard techniques and tools for production of high quality 3D/VFX, and how these could best be utilized for different types of production. Candidates should also be able to refer to available theory, aiding their decision-making through various stages of production.
Knowledge:
The candidates should have acquired knowledge and an historical framework on central topics within traditional art, composition, 3Dart, animation, motiongraphics and compositing, and how these skills may be implemented in a variety of productions.
General competence:
Candidates would have experience with teamwork, and should reach a high level of relational competence. Being able to give and receive constructive criticism in order to craft the best artistic outcome. Independence and innovative solutions are also emphasized, and students should have an understanding of the needs of the industry.
Higher education entrance qualification
Documented proficiency in English language
Applicants will be asked to submit an example of relevant artistic work
It is becoming increasingly common for students to take a semester abroad as a part of their bachelor's degree. Please contact your Programme Coordinator or your student advisor upon starting this programme should you want further information about exchange opportunities.
The following institutions are included in Erasmus+ exchange agreements linked to this study programme:
- Plymouth College of Art, England
- Breda University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands
- Saxion University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands
- Complutence University of Madrid, Spain
Some travel expenses must be expected on productions at various locations. Several production periods will span weekends and nights. We recommend that students make small investments to acquire a Wacom tablet (Intuos 4 or higher), memory stick, external hard drive, headset etc.