Animation

Course details

Animators specialise in TV and Film creation for 2D and 3D animated productions. Their work includes character design, animation and creative development through the use of 2D and 3D specialist software. They have a strong awareness of film language and design and are competent in many aspects of pre and post production practice. Animators may also work in games development and design.

This programme at Coláiste Dhúlaigh is designed to prepare learners for a professional career in animation and related fields. Learners study fundamental skills and develop their knowledge using both traditional techniques and the latest computer technology. It is an exciting and challenging programme allowing learners to develop skills in the areas of

Animation Principles, Experimental Animation, Stop Motion Animation, Life Drawing, 2D Digital Animation, 3D Digital Animation, Special Effects, Compositing, Film and Critical Studies, Layout, Scriptwriting, Character Design and Storyboarding

The course comprises of a one year FETAC programme and a two year BTEC Higher National Diploma programme.

Course Content

Animation Foundation (FETAC Level 5)

The first year contains a broad range of subjects which lay the groundwork for the practice of Animation:Subjects studied at FETAC level include the following: Drawing for Animation, Painting, Design Skills, Image Processing, Computer Illustrated Graphics, Life Drawing, Drama, Sculpture, Work Experience, Communications.

YEAR 2 & 3 (HND in Animation)

In second year, learners focus on applying their skills to practical design and animation projects of increasing complexity. The content also addresses complex and technical subjects, with an emphasis on traditional, 2D and 3D digital animation and drawing skills.

The bulk of work in third year focuses on developing a major animation production project from a set of specific briefs.

Learners gain experience in planning a pre- production, production and post production work flow. This culminates in a completed animated short.

Learners are encouraged to send completed projects to various national film festivals. Advanced 2D and 3D animation techniques are studied. Learners also conduct research on the animation/film industry and produce a thesis.

Subjects studied at HND level include the following:

Introduction to the Principles of Animation, Applied Animation, Life Drawing, Anatomical Drawing, Contextual and Cultural Referencing in Art and Design, Visual Communication in Art and Design, Ideas Generation and Development in Art and Design, Drawing Techniques and Processes in Art and Design, Commercial Model Making , Video Production Digital Media in Art and Design, 2D, 3D and Time-based Digital Applications, Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation, Professional Practice in Art and Design, Digital Image Creation and Development, Critical Study in Art and Design, Communication with Images in Art and Design, 3D Computer Modeling and Animation.**

CERTIFICATION

FETAC Award Level 5, HND, BA Hons

Entry requirements

Leaving Certificate (including LCA) and interview (with portfolio). Mature and postgraduate students are also actively encouraged to apply for this course.