Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

25th Aug 2025, 1 year

Location

City Campus

Applications from International Students Welcome

Overview

This industry-leading course helps you develop the skills necessary to become a 3D Digital Developer. It features live projects related to various disciplines within 3D animation.

The course is designed for creative individuals interested in 3D and 2D animation, video games, digital art, and architectural visualisation. Throughout the program, you will acquire 3D character modelling and animation skills, environmental modelling, texturing and surfacing, special effects, lighting, and camera work. You will also enhance your presentation skills and learn how to create a professional portfolio.

You will be trained in industry-standard software, including 3D Studio Max, Mudbox, Substance Painter, After Effects, and Photoshop. Additionally, the curriculum incorporates 3D printing and VR headset experiences.

Over the course of this 1-year program, you will have the opportunity to progress to Year 2 of the HND in 3D Computer Animation or transition to Glasgow Caledonian University and the University of the West of Scotland through our articulation partnerships.

Previous students have achieved remarkable accolades, including a Gold Medal at the Global Skills Challenge in Melbourne, Australia, a Gold Medal at WorldSkills UK 2023 for the 3D Digital Game Art competition, and a Medal of Excellence at the WorldSkills Final in Korea in 2022 for 3D Digital Game Art.

This course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 7.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• One Higher at Grade C or above AND three National 5 qualifications at Grade C or above preferably including Computing, Information Systems or Graphic Communications, OR
• National Qualification at SCQF or 6 in a relevant subject such as 3D Game Art and Animations or Computer Arts or Games Development.
• Other equivalent qualifications or experience.

Additional selection requirements

You'll be invited to a group and/or individual interview, where you can learn more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

• 3D Modelling.
• Character Modelling.
• Cameras.
• Lighting and Special Effects.
• Environmental Modelling.
• Drawing Skills.
• Movement Studies.
• Surfaces and Textures.
• Showreel/Portfolio Creation.
• Sound Editing.
• Video Editing.
• Compositing.

After the course

Careers

Students who complete the HNC may progress to Year 2 3D Computing Animation HND (level 8) or university courses:-

• Abertay University (A30) - Computer Arts (GW42).
• University of Dundee (D65) - Animation (W280).
• Glasgow Caledonian University (G42) - 3D Animation and Visualisation (2E4W); Computer Games (Art and Animation) (GW4G); Computer Games (Design) (GWK2).
• University of the West of Scotland (U40) - Computer Animation Arts BSc Hons (GW48).
• University of Edinburgh (E56) - Animation (W615).