2D Animation and Stop Motion (16 Months) MA
Teesside University Campus, United Kingdom
2D Animation and Stop Motion MA
Teesside University
Animation & Visual Arts
Program Overview: MA 2D Animation and Stop Motion
The MA 2D Animation and Stop Motion at Teesside University is an intensive, practice-led program designed for aspiring animators who want to write, design, and produce a festival-ready animated short film. From initial concept through to final production, you develop your creative vision while gaining hands-on expertise in 2D and stop motion animation techniques.
The first semester focuses on writing, pitching, and designing production materials, while the second semester moves into full production using dedicated stop motion and 2D animation studio spaces. You are supported by a teaching team with professional backgrounds in 2D animation, stop motion, and fine art installation, along with specialist technicians for model, puppet, and set making.
Teesside University is recognised as Europe's first Adobe Creative Campus and has invested over GBP 300 million in its campus facilities. The university's animation programs have earned strong industry recognition, and events such as Animex and ExpoTees provide valuable networking and showcase opportunities with global film and games studios.
Key Program Highlights
- Create a festival-ready animated short film from concept to completion during the program
- Access dedicated stop motion studios, 2D animation spaces, and fully equipped model-making workshops
- Study at Europe's first Adobe Creative Campus with GBP 300 million in recent campus investment
- Learn to pitch scripts to industry professionals and funding bodies through live pitch sessions
Curriculum and Modules
The MA 2D Animation and Stop Motion curriculum is structured to take you from pre-production through to a completed animated film. Semester 1 emphasises writing, pitching, and design, while Semester 2 focuses on hands-on animation production, sound, editing, and performance direction.
Screenwriting for Animation
20 CreditsWrite and develop a screenplay for a film, animation, or TV series pilot. You learn how to write and present a script idea in a competitive environment, preparing you for professional pitching.
Visual Language and Film Analysis
20 CreditsDeconstruct and analyse all aspects of films and animations that make up the visual language used to influence audience understanding. You critically discuss genres and formats including short film, feature film, live action, and animation.
Collaborative Animation Production
20 CreditsWorking as a group, you explore and produce a short animation sequence or set of sequences using 2D, stop motion, or a combination of appropriate animation techniques.
Animation Performance and Sound
20 CreditsYou are introduced to the principles of performance for animation, using dialogue, sound creation, and synchronisation techniques. This module develops your understanding of how performance drives animated storytelling.
Pre-Production and Design Development
20 CreditsThis is your opportunity to experiment with technical and visual aspects of your final films. You develop and refine all pre-production materials including storyboards, character designs, and production schedules.
Final Major Project
60 CreditsUsing the pre-production materials produced throughout the course, you create your final short film animation or TV pilot. This capstone project results in a festival-ready piece that showcases your creative and technical abilities.
Elective and Specialisation Options
Admission Requirements
To be considered for the MA 2D Animation and Stop Motion at Teesside University, applicants must demonstrate both academic readiness and creative potential. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationAt least a UK 2.2 honours degree in animation or equivalent qualification
- Alternative EntryOther first degree subjects may be accepted when combined with a portfolio of creative work at an acceptable standard
- PortfolioA portfolio demonstrating creative ability in animation, illustration, or related visual arts is required
- Professional ExperienceWhile not mandatory, relevant work experience in animation or related fields can strengthen your application
- ReferencesAcademic or professional references may be requested to support your application
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0, with no component below 5.5
- PTE AcademicOverall score of 59
- Cambridge EnglishScale score of 169 or Trinity ISE II Merit
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Teesside University offers several scholarship opportunities for international students to help make postgraduate study more affordable. Uni4Edu can guide you through the application process and help identify the funding options best suited to your profile.
Vice Chancellor's Scholarship
GBP 7,000 tuition fee waiverAwarded to outstanding international applicants who demonstrate exceptional academic merit. This is the highest-value university scholarship and candidates are automatically considered based on their admission application.
Deans' International Scholarship
GBP 3,000 tuition fee reductionAvailable to exceptional international students at postgraduate level. This scholarship recognises strong academic achievement and is applied as a reduction to your tuition fees.
GREAT Scholarships (British Council)
GBP 10,000 tuition fee waiverFunded jointly by the British Council and Teesside University, this scholarship supports students from select countries pursuing a one-year postgraduate taught programme. Candidates must hold an offer from the university to be considered.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA 2D Animation and Stop Motion are well-prepared for careers across the animation, film, television, and creative industries. The program equips you with professional production skills, a festival-ready portfolio piece, and industry connections built through events like Animex and ExpoTees.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers in the Industry
Rankings and Recognition
Teesside University has earned strong recognition for its animation programs and continues to climb in national and international university rankings. Named University of the Year by Times Higher Education in 2025, the university is known for teaching excellence and its commitment to creative digital education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Animation (UK) | Animation Career Review | #4 |
| Animation (International) | Animation Career Review | #18 |
| Teaching Quality (UK) | Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide | #23 of 131 |
| Guardian League Table (Overall UK) | The Guardian | #57 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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