University of Bolton, BA (Hons), Animation and Illustration

The 1st 1/2 of the course leads students progressively through the basics of drawn and digital creative approaches to animation and illustration; the 2nd 1/2 offers increasing levels of module choice in both subjects so that if students wish to specialise, perhaps in pursuit of a specific career destination such as digital animation or children’s book illustration, they can do so; most modules involve simulated live briefs taken from the professional experience of staff, and there are opportunities to work on paid commissions for clients; areas covered include: general graphics, aesthetics and computer use; basics of both disciplines; advanced study of both or either specialism; the creative possibilities of commercial image making dominate the teaching; however, students also explore theory and history, and develop their ability to organise and evaluate information; by the end of the degree students are able to demonstrate a high level of practical knowledge, skills and creativity in their portfolio as well as an in-depth knowledge of specialist areas of illustration and animation, and a critical understanding of the principles involved; they also have an understanding of contemporary illustration and animation, and the social, economic and ethical factors which influence these art forms.