2D Animation and Stop Motion MA
Teesside University Campus, United Kingdom
2D Animation and Stop Motion MA
Teesside University
Animation & Visual Arts
Program Overview: 2D Animation and Stop Motion MA
The 2D Animation and Stop Motion MA at Teesside University guides you through the concept and realisation of a short animation or TV pilot, which you prepare for festival submission by the end of the course. You can choose to focus on traditional 2D animation skills or stop motion animation, developing your creative voice from script to screen.
Throughout the program, you learn how to write a script and pitch your idea to industry professionals and funding bodies, while critically engaging with animation through a range of theoretical and critical frameworks. You are supported by a teaching team with backgrounds in 2D and stop motion animation as well as fine art installation.
The course is supported by dedicated stop motion and 2D animation spaces, as well as well-equipped workshops with specialist technician support for model, puppet, and set making. Students also benefit from Teesside's internationally renowned Animex festival and industry networking events such as ExpoTees Creative.
Key Program Highlights
- Create a festival-ready short animated film or TV pilot from initial concept through to completion
- Access dedicated stop motion studios, 2D animation labs, and specialist model-making workshops
- Ranked 20th in the world by Animation Career Review International Animation School Rankings 2025
- Showcase work at Animex and ExpoTees Creative, connecting with global film and games studios
Curriculum & Modules
The curriculum is structured across two semesters, taking you from pre-production through to a completed animated work. Semester 1 focuses on writing, pitching, and designing production materials, while Semester 2 moves into full production using dedicated studio spaces and technical labs.
Develop your screenplay and learn how to pitch your film ideas to industry professionals and funding bodies. You refine narrative structure, dialogue, and storytelling techniques specific to animated formats.
Explore the layers of animation production and refine a considered creative approach. Gain insight into the principles of movement, timing, and performance that underpin compelling animated storytelling.
Develop and design all production materials including character designs, storyboards, animatics, and environment concepts. Prepare the visual blueprint for your animated short film or TV pilot.
Work in either 2D or stop motion using dedicated studio spaces, technical labs, and workshops. Apply animation techniques and principles of performance to bring your project to life.
Develop skills in sound design, editing, performance direction, and post-production workflows. Prepare your final film for festival release with professional-quality audio-visual polish.
Elective & Specialisation Options
Admission Requirements
The 2D Animation and Stop Motion MA welcomes applicants with a strong creative portfolio and a passion for animated storytelling. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our advisors guide you through every step of the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum DegreeUK 2.2 honours degree (or international equivalent) in animation or a related discipline
- Alternative QualificationsOther first degree subjects may be accepted when combined with a portfolio of creative work at an acceptable standard
- PortfolioA portfolio demonstrating creative and storytelling capacity through academic work, industry experience, or self-guided study
- Relevant 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 equivalent
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Teesside University offers several scholarship opportunities to help international students fund their postgraduate studies. Uni4Edu can help you identify the best funding options and guide you through the application process.
British Council GREAT Scholarship
GBP 10,000 fee reductionAvailable for students from eligible countries pursuing a one-year postgraduate taught master's programme. This scholarship is offered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, with limited places available each year.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship
GBP 7,000 fee waiverA merit-based fee waiver for outstanding international applicants demonstrating exceptional academic achievement. This scholarship is applied directly to international tuition fees and cannot be combined with other Teesside University scholarships.
Global Excellence Scholarship
GBP 2,000 fee waiverAvailable to international students entering full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programmes who meet the eligibility criteria. All eligible applicants are automatically assessed by the International Scholarships Committee based on their course application.
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 2D Animation and Stop Motion MA are prepared for professional careers across the animation, film, television, and games industries. The program equips you with a festival-ready portfolio, industry contacts, and the technical and creative skills sought by leading studios worldwide.
Potential Career Roles
Industries & Employers Hiring Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
Teesside University has earned significant recognition for its animation programs and is consistently ranked among the top institutions globally for animation education. The university was awarded Triple Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 and was named University of the Year by Times Higher Education in 2025.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Animation (International) | Animation Career Review | #20 of 207 colleges worldwide |
| Teaching Quality (UK) | Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide | #23 of 131 UK Universities |
| Overall UK Ranking | The Times Good University Guide | #84 |
| Global Universities | U.S. News & World Report | #1484 |
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.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Animation & Games BA
Arts University Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
October 2026
Gross Tuition
17250 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Animation, BA Hons
University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
17975 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
BA (Hons) Animation
Ravensbourne University London, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
March 2026
Gross Tuition
17000 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Animation (Specialisation)
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, Milan, Italy
Earliest Intake
May 2026
Gross Tuition
21600 €
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Illustration B.F.A.
Syracuse University, Syracuse, United States
Earliest Intake
September 2025
Gross Tuition
66580 $
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
