Apply Now For Our Online Master's Degree

The world's first online MA in animation

Animation Apprentice and Buckinghamshire New University are now taking applications through UCAS for the September 2019 intake of our part-time online MA in 3D animation.
The online MA is a unique degree which can be undertaken by students anywhere in the world, leading to a formal qualification in the field.

You will not only learn how to animate, but you will engage at Masters' level with the underpinning theory and structure behind the art form.

What is this degree and why is it so special?
The online Master's Degree in 3D animation was the very first of its kind. Until now, if you wanted to do an MA in animation, you had to go to a university and study there, at a place and time that is convenient for the university.  Now, you can complete your degree online, from anywhere in the world.  You don't even need to show up for graduation if it doesn't suit you (though you will be invited).

Bucks New Uni - partnering with AnimationApprentice

What will you learn?
The course is a unique blend of practical and academic content. That means you will learn how to animate, stop by step, and be properly trained as a skilled professional 3D animator.

At the same time, you will have to engage with the theory behind the craft, and take a close look at the industry, critically engaging with the underpinnings and possibilities of the medium.

Why does anyone need an MA?
Because it's a globally recognised qualification. Having an MA shows that you can engage in critical thinking at an advanced level, and make a thorough analysis of the subject being studied. In practical terms, without an MA you can't realistically hope to get a job teaching at most universities.

But don't studios want practical skills?
Yes they do. Studios hire animators with great demo reels. That is why the MA has a strong emphasis on learning the techniques of 3D animation,  as well as academic content. By the end of it you will have a strong demo reel, good enough to help you find work in this fast-growing industry.

Who is this course for?
Our course is for anyone who wants to learn the craft of 3D animation, and needs a formal qualification to prove it.  It is also very useful for anyone who would like a career in teaching animation, as a master's degree is more or less essential to teach at university level. There isn't another course that we know of which offers this blend of practical and critical content.

When Does It Start?
September 2019.

How Much Does It Cost?
The course costs around £7,000 (though this is subject to change).

Government funding
Don't forget that the UK government now offers public loans to graduate students. For more on funding for MA study, read this post.

What kind of jobs are available to graduates?
The animation industry is expanding rapidly worldwide. 3D animation is everywhere now, on TV, in the movie theatres, on your smart phone, on the web, and in games. The skills you will learn are transferable to any kind of animation.

How Can I Sign Up?
To visit the official page and register for more information, follow this link.

Will I need a portfolio?
Yes. We will need to see evidence of the kind of creative and technical skill that makes a prospective animator. For more on our portfolio guidelines, see this post. 

Will I need to have a BA?
Not necessarily, but it helps. If you don't have a BA, you will need to show a portfolio of work that will demonstrates a level of learning that shows you can handle a post-graduate level of study.

Will I have to attend an interview?
Not necessarily. We base most of our decisions on your portfolio. However we do sometimes interview candidates either by telephone or Skype.

How does the course actually work in practice?
To see more precise detail on how the course works, watch the short video below.





To find out more about Animation Apprentice, click here for a link to Frequently Asked Questions. To sign up for our next classroom at Animation Apprentice, follow this link.