Animation BDes (Hons)
Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom, United Kingdom
Animation BDes (Hons)
University of Dundee
Animation
Animation BDes (Hons) Program Overview
The Animation BDes (Hons) at the University of Dundee is a narrative-driven program focusing on characters and storytelling, where you will learn both 2D and 3D animation techniques. Delivered at the renowned Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, the course mirrors animation industry practice as closely as possible, preparing you for a professional career from day one.
As you progress through the program, you will specialise in specific areas of animation production such as 3D modelling and texturing, rigging, lighting and compositing, 2D layout and backgrounds, or 2D and 3D effects animation. You will work to industry-style briefs, gaining hands-on experience with professional production practices across a variety of specialisms.
The course continuously evolves to reflect the fast-changing animation industry, ensuring graduates develop new skills in emerging processes and software. Graduates of this program have earned credits on major productions including Game of Thrones, Spider-Man: Far From Home, and the Disney Channel, demonstrating the calibre of talent the program produces.
Key Program Highlights
- Narrative-driven curriculum focusing on character development and storytelling across 2D and 3D animation
- Each student receives their own dedicated workspace in vibrant, industrious studio facilities
- Graduates have earned credits on major productions such as Game of Thrones and Spider-Man: Far From Home
- Industry-aligned teaching that mirrors professional animation production practices
Curriculum and Modules
The Animation BDes (Hons) curriculum is structured to progressively build your skills from foundational animation principles to advanced specialisation. You will engage with industry-standard tools and workflows while developing your creative voice through increasingly complex projects and production briefs.
Introduces core animation principles including timing, spacing, weight, and movement. You will develop foundational drawing and digital skills essential for both 2D and 3D animation pipelines.
Focuses on creating compelling characters through visual storytelling, exploring anatomy, expression, personality, and movement. You will learn to design characters suitable for various animation styles and formats.
Covers digital sculpting, polygon modelling, UV mapping, and texture creation using industry-standard software. You will build assets ready for rigging, animation, and rendering in professional pipelines.
Develops your storytelling abilities through scriptwriting, storyboarding, and animatic creation. You will learn to plan and communicate narrative ideas effectively for animated productions.
Explores the technical and artistic aspects of lighting scenes, rendering workflows, and compositing final imagery. You will learn to create mood and atmosphere through digital lighting techniques.
Specialisation and Elective Areas
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Animation BDes (Hons) is competitive and portfolio-based. Applicants are expected to demonstrate both academic achievement and creative potential through their application materials. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on preparing your application.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsABB, with a literate or Art and Design subject recommended
- International Baccalaureate32 points, including 6, 5, 5 at Higher Level with a literate or Art and Design subject recommended
- BTEC Extended DiplomaDDM in a relevant BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma
- Scottish Advanced HigherBB at Advanced Higher plus BB at Higher in different subjects
- PortfolioA portfolio of creative work demonstrating drawing ability, storytelling skills, and animation potential is required
English Language Requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum score requirement
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum score requirement
- Cambridge EnglishContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum score requirement
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Dundee offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for international students. These awards recognise academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, and regional diversity. Contact Uni4Edu for help identifying the scholarships you may be eligible for.
Global Excellence Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000 per yearAvailable to international undergraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance and strong extracurricular or voluntary activities. This partially funded award supports study costs throughout the duration of the program.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship
Up to GBP 4,000 per year (up to GBP 20,000 total)Offered to international students from eligible regions including South Asia, Africa, and Mainland China. This scholarship provides a tuition fee discount for each year of undergraduate study and is automatically assessed based on your application.
Global Citizenship Scholarship
Up to GBP 4,000 per yearRecognises applicants who strongly align with the University of Dundee's values of global citizenship. This award supports international students throughout their undergraduate studies and requires a separate 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 Animation BDes (Hons) program are highly sought after by studios and production companies worldwide. The program's industry-aligned approach ensures you leave with the technical skills, creative portfolio, and professional experience needed to launch your career in the animation and visual effects industries.
Potential Career Roles
Employers of Dundee Animation Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Dundee is a well-established institution with strong national and international rankings. Founded in 1881, the university consistently performs well across multiple ranking systems and has been recognised for student satisfaction, research quality, and graduate employability.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Art and Design | Duncan of Jordanstone College | Among Scotland's leading art schools |
| Overall Student Satisfaction | National Student Survey | 1st in Scotland in 12 subjects (2025) |
| Scottish University of the Year | Daily Mail University Guide | Winner 2025 |
| Employability | QS Employability Rankings | Top 200 |
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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