Model Design and Model Effects BA Hons
School of Creative Arts
Institution Code H36
UCAS Code
W292
Course Code CCSFX
Start date
September
More about the course
You will study on a programme that enables you to create highly detailed and accurate models which are suitable for a range of disciplines, from concept cars for the automotive industry to scale models used by architects' in presentations to their clients, or models used as "movie miniatures" by directors in films like Batman Begins or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (both these productions used large teams of our students and graduates for models and props).
Early in the programme you will be given a strong grounding in "how to make things", learning traditional techniques in the machine shop and later using "cutting edge" technologies, which include CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) and CAM (Computer Aided Modelling) to produce parts for your models. As well as 3D modelling, 2D software packages like Corel Draw will allow you to use the laser-cutter to fabricate complex and intricate parts or to create dry transfers with colour-separated artwork, both processes which will enable you to produce highly finished professional quality models.
Throughout the programme you will develop your awareness of the issues and concerns, which relate to the industry. These issues will inform and develop your creative awareness and underpin your design processes, ultimately helping to define your professional practice.
Work placement
We regularly provide fantastic opportunities for students on our highly acclaimed work experience programme; students can choose to take a range of modules as a replacement for all or part of one semester in their second year of study. The staff team have excellent contacts in industry and students are supported by a work experience tutor that assists them in placing students on high-profile placements. Typically students spend 3 months with leading companies like Artem, Asylum Models & Effects, Hothouse Models & Effects, Machine Shop Special Effects and internationally renowned companies such as Seymour Powell design consultants, the architects Foster and Partners and the Richard Rogers Partnership.
Our students have worked on major blockbusters such as Batman Begins, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Harry Potter & the Goblet of Fire and Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy. Their skills are highly valued in the wider entertainment industry of exhibit, interactive exhibitions, theatre, theme parks and spectacle.
Careers
Model makers can find opportunities in a wide variety of areas of professional practice, for example working within an architectural practice, automotive prototyping, museum exhibit, product or packaging consultancy or special effects company.
The Model and Special Effects Programme has an outstanding record of graduate employment. Typically 85% of graduates are working in an area related to their study six months after graduation. Of the remaining 15%: 10% usually go on the postgraduate study with only 5% or less remaining unemployed.
Teaching methods
Teaching across the programme consists largely of project-based work supported by appropriate 'skills' based workshops. Students tackle a wide variety of briefs ranging in complexity and time scales. Some projects will take up to two months to complete whilst others will be completed within a matter of days.
There is a common first year for all three degrees in the programme, which provides an opportunity to develop a range of skills and gain a wide variety of learning experiences. Some of the projects are team based and help you get to know people from the other two degrees, whilst other projects are worked on individually.
In addition to work experience away from the university, students often have the chance to work on live projects for clients on campus, which provides an opportunity to complete work to professional standards and real deadlines.
Tutorials and seminars include one-on-one, small group, medium sized groups for workshops and large groups for lectures.
Course structure
Detailed information about the structure of the course and the modules you will study.