BA (HONS) Animation

In Hamburg

Academic Partner Key Facts Programme Structure Admission Requirements How to Apply

Our graduates have found employment with

ACADEMIC PARTNER

University for the Creative Arts is a specialist creative institution dedicated to art, design, fashion, media, and creative business disciplines. With campuses across the south of England, it is highly industry-focused and known for producing graduates in the creative industries.

Overall ranking: placed 100th in the Guardian University Guide 2026, with strong performance in student satisfaction (80.1%), feedback quality (78.8%), and solid graduate outcomes in creative sectors. UCA is one of the UK’s leading specialist creative universities, particularly recognised for fashion, animation, and design-related programmes

XP-PEN

Industry Tools for Creative Learning

BSBI partners with XP-PEN to provide students on selected creative programmes with access to professional digital art technology throughout their studies.

Using industry-standard drawing displays and pen tablets, students develop practical creative skills while working with the same tools used by designers, illustrators, and digital artists in professional environments.

Watch our XP-PEN explanatory video

KEY FACTS

LOCATIONS

Hamburg, Germany

DURATION

3/4 years (international route)

PRICE**

€10,425/ year (International and EU) 

FORMAT

On-campus

CERTIFIED BY

University for the Creative Arts

MODE OF STUDY

Full-time

LANGUAGE

English

INTAKES*

February (International Route), October 

*Intakes are subject to change 

** Discounts upto 50% available, see all pricing and fees

Download Factsheet

The School’s admissions process is subject to the Consumer Contracts (Terms and Conditions). Information on your Right of Withdrawal and our Refund Policy can be found in the BSBI study agreement.

SECURE YOUR PLACE ON THIS PROGRAMME BY APPLYING TODAY.

FIND OUT HOW TO APPLY HERE >>

Portfolio Scholarship Competition

Students have the opportunity to showcase their creativity and the chance to receive a scholarship on tuition! This competition is valid on the Faculty of Creative Industries programmes being offered at the Hamburg campus.

Best Portfolio (Study for Free!)

1 Student | 100% Scholarship on Tuition

Second Best Portfolio

10 Students | 50% Scholarship on Tuition

Third Best Portfolio

20 Students | 40% Scholarship on Tuition

Find out more about how to apply here.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

The BA in Animation programme at BSBI is designed to immerse students in the dynamic world of animation, equipping you with both technical skills and creative vision. The Bachelors in Animation programme covers essential areas such as 2D and 3D animation, character design, storytelling and visual effects, providing a comprehensive understanding of the animation industry.

Throughout this animation bachelor’s degree, you will work on industry-standard software, preparing you for a variety of roles in film, television, advertising and digital media. Delivered in collaboration with the University for the Creative Arts (UCA), the animation bachelor’s programme offers a blend of practical learning and academic excellence, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the competitive animation industry with a globally recognised degree.

WHO IS THIS PROGRAMME FOR

The BA in Animation course is aimed at those aspiring to build a successful career in the field of animation and animated filmmaking. You will be supported to develop a critical understanding in the field of animation in order to confidently formulate and pitch ideas professionally, as well as work on screenings.

WHAT WILL THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE?

The BA (Hons) Animation course will help you develop practical animation skills through lectures, seminars, project-based briefs, exercises and life drawing practice. You will explore key stages of the animation process and apply your learning to a range of creative projects.

In your final year, you will undertake primary and secondary research, refine your creative approach and demonstrate your skills through the development of a strong professional portfolio.

WHY STUDY THIS PROGRAMME?

You will earn a bachelor’s degree with 120 UK credits per year (equivalent to 60 ECTS per year). This helps student mobility in the EU when it comes to transferring credits from one higher education institution to another.

program structure

The learning and teaching of Bachelors in Animation programme will consist of a variety of elements such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, animated/non-animated video, practical work, seminars and trips.

The assessment strategy will include individual/group reports and/or presentations, case studies, essays, portfolio development, reflective journals and experiential work based activities. You will study up to four days per week, in smaller class sizes and more frequent sessions. Teaching takes place Monday to Saturdays, during morning, afternoon, or evening sessions.

INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION IN ART DESIGN AND MEDIA

English for Academic Purposes, Research and Study skills
Exploring Practices, Process, Materials and Techniques
Investigating Specialist Practice
Final Major Project

YEAR 1

Animation: Contexts and Concepts
Digital Skills
Drawing for Animation
Animation Principle

YEAR 2

Animated Cultures
Advanced Digital Techniques
Short Film
Research and Concept

YEAR 3

Destinations
Proposal and Pitch
Final Film
Dissertation

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

integrated foundation year entry

This route is for applicants who do not yet meet the academic requirements for direct entry to the 3-year Bachelor’s degree.

Applicants should normally meet the following requirements:

  • Min age: : 17 (titles awarded upon completion of at least 11 years of schooling)
  • Academic Qualifications: ECCTIS UK equivalent to GCSE

3 year bachelor’s degree- direct entry

This route is for applicants who meet the academic requirements for direct entry into Year 1 of the Bachelor’s degree.

Minimum Age: 18 (titles awarded upon completion of at least 12 years of schooling)

For direct Year 1 BA entry you’ll be required to submit an online portfolio via our BSBI Applicant Portal.

Academic Qualifications

  • A school leaving certificate with a pass to pursue higher education in Germany e.g. Abitur, Fachhochschulreife or Matura. Alternatively, an international baccalaureate, international school leaving certificates, BTEC/national diploma or advanced vocational certificate of education will be accepted.

If you do not meet the above academic requirements, applicants with professional qualifications and/or four years of full-time work experience will be considered on an individual basis.

year 3 Direct entry

BSBI, in partnership with leading creative institution, University for the Creative Arts (UCA), is offering the opportunity to enrich your vocational qualification with this Year 3 direct entry bachelor’s degree in just a year.

Entry Requirements

  • Graduates from a vocational academy/institute are not required to present a portfolio upon certified successful completion of their vocational training and are eligible for a direct entry into year 3.
  • Same is applicable for students who completed HND in Animation, Illustration or Animation or direct year 3 progression upon successful completion of level 5/Year 2 by a UK awarding body.

English Proficiency

Applicants must meet the English language requirements for the programme.

Foundation Programme

  • A minimum English language proficiency of B1+ is required (e.g., IELTS Academic 5.0 overall; TOEFL iBT 46; PTE Academic 46; Duolingo English Test 95; or another equivalent English language qualification accepted by BSBI Admissions).

    3 years Bachelor’s Degree Entry

    • A minimum English language proficiency of B2 is required (e.g., IELTS Academic 6.0 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component; TOEFL iBT 80 (L17, R18, S20, W17); PTE Academic 56 (minimum 51 per component); Duolingo English Test 105; or another equivalent English language qualification accepted by BSBI Admissions).

    Year 3 Direct Entry

    • Graduates from a Schengen zone vocational academy/HND/ Level 5 progression by UK awarding body are not required to present an IELTS language test but required to pass BSBI English diagnostics test which will be provided by BSBI for direct entry year 3 BA Degree.

      Required Documents

      What you’ll need to apply

      As part of your application, we generally ask for:

      • School leaving certificate and transcript
      • Proof of English language proficiency
      • Up-to-date CV
      • Personal statement
      • Academic or professional reference(s)
      • Portfolio Cookbook

      Please note that additional or alternative documents may be requested where applicable.

      Portfolio Submission

      For year 1 entry you’ll be required to submit an online portfolio via our BSBI Applicant Portal. Before submitting your artwork, please have a look through the Portfolio Cookbook.

      What is a Portfolio?

      • Your portfolio is a collection of your best work. We want to see what inspires you, how you develop your work, your creative thinking processes, what and how you create, and what makes you a unique creative individual.

      What Should My Portfolio Contain?

      • Your portfolio might contain sketches, paintings, digital art and design, sound work, short films, or other examples of your creative work.
      • You may include up to 12 pieces of work.
      • If your work includes audio, video, a website, or a showreel, please present it within your portfolio using relevant screenshots, descriptions and/or links.

      How do I Submit My Portfolio?

      • If your portfolio is a website or showreel, please convert it into a presentation and submit it as a PDF. Relevant external links, such as Vimeo or YouTube, may be included within the PDF where appropriate.
      • You can upload your PDF once you have applied via our online submission system within the Applicant Portal.
      • The maximum file size is 512 MB.

      Further information on how to compile and upload your portfolio will be provided by our Admissions Team via the admissions portal once you have applied.

      Apply now

      Edge Student Hub

      Finding the perfect place to live while you study is crucial. BSBI has partnered with Edge Student Hub, to provide an accommodation package that ensures you have a comfortable from day one in Germany. Located just 45 minutes from central Berlin, the accommodation provides convenience and ease. Shared rooms start at €599 per month, with single rooms and shared apartments also available. Secure your ideal living arrangement and focus on your studies without any worries.

      Bring a Friend and save €500!

      If you have a friend who is also planning to study in Berlin, let your Accommodation Advisor know. You can receive a €500 discount on your final month’s rent for a shared room*. Please note that your friend must be enrolled at Gisma, BSBI, UE Germany, or Arden Berlin to qualify for this offer.

      Terms and conditions apply

      SPEAK TO A RECRUITMENT CONSULTANT

      CAREER PROGRESSION

      BSBI’s industry focused study environment is dedicated to supporting our students in reaching their career goals. Upon successful completion of the BA in Animation course, students will be able to pursue a role in the following areas:

      • Freelance animation
      • In-House animation
      • Web and app animation
      • Filmmaking Special effects
      • Art director
      • Set designer
      • Education
      • Freelance 3D artist

      BSBI’s dedicated Careers Service helps Bachelors in Animation students and alumni reach their career goals and realise their potential. The Service offers specialised support and aims to build long-lasting relationships with local and national employers.

      Visit the Careers Service website.

      LEARNING OUTCOMES

      Knowledge and Creative Understanding

      Upon successful completion of the BA in Animation programme, students will be able to apply strong English communication skills to discuss international, cultural, contemporary, historical, theoretical, and professional contexts relevant to animation. They will also develop a range of general, specialist, and transferable skills that support both further study and future employment opportunities.

      Animation Practice and Industry Application

      Students will learn to create innovative and professional animation projects, demonstrating creativity in authorship, teamwork, and all stages of commercial animation production. They will be able to conduct primary and secondary research independently, identifying and using relevant resources to inform their creative work and industry practice.

      Specialist Skills and Professional Development

      The programme enables students to develop individual responses to various forms of animation production while building specialist competencies within their chosen area of animation. They will gain valuable experience in project management, professional presentation, and the effective communication of ideas to a range of audiences.

      Technical Expertise and Critical Awareness

      Graduates will develop an advanced technical skillset that demonstrates their creative authorship and professional capabilities. They will also gain an understanding of key theoretical debates and critical perspectives within animation, allowing them to position their work within broader cultural and creative contexts.

      OUR NUMBERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

      Built from more than 2,800 student responses across BSBI campuses, the results reflect strong student satisfaction, support, and career-focused learning.

      87%

      overall student satisfaction

      88%

      feel BSBI provides a diverse and inclusive environment

      90%+

      satisfaction with career services

      84%

      would recommend BSBI

      96%

      satisfaction with enrolment support

      400+

      students secured jobs or internships in 2025

      HOW TO APPLY

      Apply for your enrolment today and secure your place at BSBI.

      Apply Now

      Speak with an expert and plan your academic future at BSBI.

      Book a call

      STUDENT VOICES

      Discover what international students have to say about their first days at BSBI!

      TESTIMONIALS

      • "BSBI moved me closer to where I want to be — and gave me a completely new perspective on global business."
        Audrey JohnstoneGlobal MBA
      • "BSBI helped me develop skills, and above all, understand and appreciate different cultures. Living and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds has also improved my language skills."
        Matteo LuccheseMSc Digital Marketing Matteo L, MSc. Digital Marketing
      • "BSBI guided me every step of the way, from the application process to arriving in Germany. Their support reassured me I'd made the right choice of choosing them."
        Aida Al Masri​BSc (Hons) International Business and Management​Aida Al Masri, BSc (Hons) International Business and Management
      • "BSBI plays some crucial roles in shaping the leaders of the future through various strategies and initiatives. "
        Victor MadunemeDoctorate in Business Administration (DBA)Victor M, DBA
      • "BSBI broadened my options and simplified my decision-making process. It provided a kickstart to my life in Germany, fulfilling the expectations every international student looks for."
        Adarsh AgarwalMA Tourism, Hospitality and Event ManagementAdarsh A., MA Tourism, Hospitality & Event management
      • "BSBI offers career fairs showcasing a diverse range of hiring companies and agencies from various sectors. These fairs were particularly helpful in developing my professional CV. The feedback and guidance I received helped me create a strong application that grabbed recruiters' attention, resulting in several successful interviews."
        Aya ShawkyMSc International Health ManagementAya S., MSc. International Health Management
      • "I was seeking a business school in Europe that aligns with my career goals and budget. The affordability offered by BSBI was a key attraction when compared to other universities and business schools."
        Vibin BalachandranGlobal MBA

      Frequently asked questions

      Contact Admissions Team →

      FAQ's

      Yes, animation is a highly demanding job, especially with the growing need for digital content in the entertainment, advertising, and gaming industries. The demand for skilled animators is expected to increase as businesses and media increasingly rely on animated content for engaging visual communication and storytelling.

      To be an animator, you typically need a bachelor's degree in animation, graphic design, fine arts, or a related field. Studying for the BA (Hons) in Animation will give you everything you need to pursue a career in animation, including a significant improvement in your animation skills, a critical understanding of the field, and the ability to formulate and pitch ideas professionally. Key qualifications also include proficiency in animation software like Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, or Blender and a strong portfolio showcasing your artistic and technical skills.

      To be a successful animator, focus on building a strong foundation in both traditional art and digital tools. A degree can be a great way to do this. A bachelor’s can also help you continuously improve your skills through practice and training, give you knowledge of best practices, and help you develop a diverse portfolio.

      A BA (Hons) in Animation is one of the best courses for aspiring animators. It provides comprehensive training in various animation techniques, software proficiency, and storytelling skills. This course often includes hands-on projects and industry placements, ensuring students are well-prepared for professional roles in the animation industry.

      Choosing animation as a career offers numerous benefits, including creative fulfilment, diverse job opportunities, and the ability to work in various industries such as film, gaming, and advertising. Animation allows you to bring stories and characters to life, making it a rewarding career for those passionate about art and technology.