The Best Animation Courses in the UK

Below is the list of the top ten UK universities for studying animation, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.

1. University of the Arts London

The University of the Arts London’s MA Animation is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of animation theory and practice using various visual media. The course emphasises engaging with audiences through multidisciplinary approaches and exploring meaningful themes related to contemporary social, ethical, cultural, political, religious, and environmental issues. Students are encouraged to experiment and push boundaries to discover their creative voices.

The programme consists of five units, each with a credit rating. In the first term, students focus on Experimental Critical Practice and Research, exploring different animation techniques and developing their animation styles. They also study the critical context in which animation operates.

In the second term, students delve into Design for Animation, Narrative Structures, and Film Language, which explores the cinematic foundations of animation. Finally, in the third term, students undertake Animation Practice and Process, developing and producing a short animation project, applying professional animation production workflows and addressing critical ideas and themes.

• Suggested course: MA Animation
• Entry requirements: Applicants must have an honours degree in animation, illustration, visual communication, graphic design, or a related subject.
• International fee: £28,570

2. Glasgow Caledonian University

The 3D Animation and Visualisation with Pathways for Games and VFX course at Glasgow Caledonian University prepares students for careers in the creative industries, focusing on producing artists and animators for games, apps, movies, and streaming shows. It uniquely blends creative and technical skills, emphasising employability and practical outcomes.

Through industry-focused projects and internships, students develop expertise in 3D modelling, animation, VFX compositing, and more. Graduates acquire transferable skills for various industry roles, such as animator, rigger, and environment artist, ensuring they can adapt to the evolving needs of the creative sector as employees or freelancers.

• Suggested course: BSc (Hons) 3D Animation and Visualisation
• Entry requirements: Higher BBCC or equivalent, including Higher in Art or Graphic Communication.
• International fee: £14,500

3. Canterbury Christ Church University

At Canterbury Christ Church University, the BA (Hons) Digital Media program offers students the freedom to explore their creative passions while gaining essential technical and academic skills. Supported by experienced faculty, students delve into cutting-edge practical skills and theories, utilising facilities like dedicated Mac labs. Collaborations with organisations such as the Canterbury Festival provide professional exposure, while academic support ensures readiness for employment post-graduation. 

Options like studying in North America enrich both academic and cultural experiences. The programme covers innovative practices like still and moving image production and interactive design, preparing students for the dynamic digital media industry.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) Digital Media
• Entry requirements: A Levels - BBC. International Baccalaureate - 29 Points.
• International fee: £15,500

4. Birmingham City University

This BA programme in Digital Animation offered by Birmingham City University covers 2D and 3D animation disciplines and is taught by experienced practitioners in the industry. It is part of the university's Film suite, designed to equip graduates with knowledge of theory, practice, and industry trends in the rapidly changing animation industry.

The course includes an optional professional placement year, allowing students to gain practical experience with employers in their chosen field. Students can draw upon the university's network of employers to secure a placement and may even return to the same employer after completing their studies. The curriculum covers core art fundamentals, such as anatomy, composition, and perspective, which form the foundation for digital animation practice. Students also learn the 12 principles of animation and industry-standard project management and pipeline methodologies.

• Suggested course: Digital Animation - BA (Hons)
• Entry requirements: 112 UCAS tariff points from A/AS Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels. 
• International fee: £16,085

5. Northumbria University

Northumbria University offers an animation course for aspiring professionals in animation, film, motion graphics, computer games, or graphic design. Students delve into design, art, film, and narrative theory through theoretical understanding and practical application. Industry-standard software and project management skills are emphasised alongside critical analytical thinking. The programme, delivered at the Academy of Design, features modules covering visual language, 3D animation, sound design, film studies, and professional practice.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) Motion Graphics and Animation Design
• International fee: £18,250

6. University of Salford

The BA (Hons) Animation programme at the University of Salford offers a pathway to excel in the animation industry. It focuses on storytelling, character development, and technical skills. Through hands-on learning, students master traditional stop-frame techniques and industry-standard 3D animation software. The curriculum emphasises creative thinking and practical application, providing a structured approach to digital animation practice.

With dedicated portfolio modules and access to opportunities in the vibrant creative hub of MediaCityUK, students can tailor their career paths for employment readiness. Animation, a rapidly growing sector, offers diverse prospects for graduates, making this programme a strategic choice for aspiring animators.

• Suggested course: BA (Hons) Animation
• Entry requirements: A-level: 96 - 112 points. IB diploma: 28 points.
• International fee: £17,040

7. Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University is among the best animation universities in the UK, and its MA Animation course offers the choice between two paths in animation: MA Animation or the specialised area of Visual Effects (VFX). The course emphasises collaboration and encourages students to build strong networks within the School of Digital Arts and industry connections.

The specialised areas of animation covered in the course reflect animation's diverse applications and examinations, ranging from science communication to award-winning short films to mind-bending VFX. Students will be able to drive their creative projects within their chosen practice, guided and challenged by experienced staff and visiting speakers who are artists, animators, and researchers actively working in the field.

• Suggested course: MA Animation
• Entry requirements: A minimum of 2:2 Honours undergraduate degree is required in a related subject.
• International fee: £20,500

8. Coventry University

Coventry University's Animation BA (Hons) programme allows students to craft a creative portfolio tailored to their chosen field. Graduates can expect diverse career opportunities, from 3D and 2D animation to character design and storytelling roles. The curriculum emphasises hands-on experimentation with analogue and digital technologies, fostering inclusivity in character development and narrative.

In the common first year, students collaborate across disciplines, broadening their knowledge base. Year two focuses on advancing technical, study, and professional skills, preparing students to excel in a rapidly evolving industry. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are adaptable, independent, and well-equipped for career success.

• Suggested course: Animation BA (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A-level: BBC. IB diploma: 29 points.
• International fee: £19,850

9. University of Hertfordshire

The MA Animation programme at the University of Hertfordshire, one of the best animation schools in the UK, provides a platform for students to develop a professional-level individual approach to animation direction. It offers the flexibility of studying either online or on campus, allowing students to enhance their digital animation skills and knowledge to an advanced level.

The degree fosters an environment for interdisciplinary learning and exploration, promoting discussions and idea exchange. Students can specialise in 2D and 3D animation or explore a fusion of techniques and styles. They will be exposed to traditional and digital animation methods, challenge preconceptions, and become innovators in the field. The programme also emphasises project management skills, enterprise opportunities, and the cultural resonance of the student's work.

• Suggested course: MA Animation
• Entry requirements: You are normally expected to have a degree in a relevant subject (2.2 minimum) and a portfolio demonstrating recent engagement and creative activities in your intended study area. 
• International fee: £15,450

10. University of Portsmouth

The Animation BA (Hons) programme at Coventry University empowers students to tailor their portfolios to their desired specialities, fostering diverse career paths in 3D and 2D animation, character design, and storytelling. Through hands-on exploration of analogue and digital technologies, inclusivity in character development and narrative is emphasised.

Collaboration in the common first year expands students' interdisciplinary knowledge, while year two focuses on refining technical, study, and professional skills. Accredited by JAMES (Joint Audio Media Education Services), this programme ensures graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic animation industry, ready to adapt and succeed in their careers.

• Suggested course: Animation BA (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A levels - BBB-BBC. IB diploma 25 points.
• International fee: £17,200