Ranks, locations, fees… how to choose a university and be sure it is the right one for you? I am studying for a BA in Computer Animation Arts & Design course at Bournemouth University and I am very happy with my choice. Let me tell you why and hopefully help you on your journey.

Firstly, it was important for me to know I study at a place with a good reputation in the animation industry. My choice fell on BU because in 2021 it was ranked the 3rd best in the world for Computer Animation, and in 2022 was named the best for Visual Effects in the UK.

One of the main benefits of my course is that it provides an easy way into your future career field. Apart from academic studies, we are able to talk to experts directly from the industry. Bournemouth Unversity hosts the BFX Festival – one of the biggest animation events among universities that invites professionals from studios worldwide to host talks and workshops for students and other attendees. In 2023, we had 71 speakers and 951 attendees. Among the studios attending the event were Framestore, DNEG, ILM and others who work with Disney, BBC and Marvel Studios. The BFX has a Recruitment Day where students can display their work to recruiters and establish useful connections. It is a game-changer for me. In addition, to stay motivated and keep up with the new technology we have guest speakers from the industry coming to the university every week.

Working at the animation labs, PGB.

Speaking of technology, another advantage is the quality of equipment we are provided with at our course. Poole Gateway Building, which is mainly used by the Faculty of Media and Communication, is equipped with professional-level TV studios with 4K cameras, green screens, and motion capture studios for animation. The students are provided with everything needed to produce the highest quality of work on campus and for independent use.

Of course, for such a highly demanded course I needed to apply in advance. BU’s requirements for a portfolio were quite diverse, so I needed to show skills in both traditional and digital mediums, as well as any other forms of visual art. I also included a motivation letter and grades from school and the IELTS exam and luckily got accepted with an additional scholarship for academic excellence.

BU provides a Foundation Year at BU International College for the students who come to study from abroad, so I did Computing Foundation Year. It gave me an overall understanding of the educational system in the UK and I felt way more confident starting the actual First Year of my degree.

So there you go, that was my story and why I am glad with the university I chose. Hopefully, this will inspire you and give you an idea of what it’s like to study at BU. However, if you still have questions you can always join an Open Day online or at campus to learn more (Open Days | Bournemouth University) and chat directly with me or other students.

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BA (Hons) Computer Animation & Visual Effects | Bournemouth University