BA (Hons) Animation

iN hamburg

Academic Partner Key Facts Programme Structure Admission Requirements How to Apply

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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

KEY FACTS

LOCATIONS

Hamburg, Germany

DURATION

3/4 years (international route)

PRICE**

€11.000/ year (International and EU) 

FORMAT

On-campus

CERTIFIED BY

University of Creative Arts

MODE OF STUDY

Full-time

LANGUAGE

English

INTAKES*

February (International Route), October 

*Intakes are subject to change 

** Discounts upto 40% available, see all pricing and fees

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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 build your animation skills through lectures, seminars, practice related briefs and exercises as well as life drawing practice and sound production. You will also be supported through live industry briefs. In your final year you will be able to undertake primary and secondary research and demonstrate your newly acquired skills via demonstration of a strong portfolio of production.

The Bachelors in Animation programme is delivered 100% on-campus with full access to state-of-the art facilities.

YOUR LEARNING JOURNEY

Upon successful completion of the MSc International Business programme, students should be able to

  • Build a strong foundation in animation principles, visual storytelling, character development, and creative communication across a variety of animation formats.
  • Develop practical skills in industry-standard animation tools, software, and production techniques used in contemporary creative industries.
  • Explore both traditional and digital animation methods, gaining experience in concept development, storyboarding, modelling, motion, and post-production processes.
  • Strengthen your research, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities by analysing animation trends, cultural influences, and emerging technologies.
  • Work on individual and collaborative projects that mirror professional animation workflows, enhancing your teamwork, project management, and communication skills.
  • Create a professional portfolio and final animation projects that showcase your technical expertise, creative vision, and readiness for careers in animation, gaming, film, television, and digital media.

REASONS TO STUDY THIS PROGRAMME

01

Students will earn a bachelor’s degree with 120 UK credits per year, equivalent to 60 ECTS credits annually. This internationally recognised credit structure provides a clear framework for academic progression throughout the programme.

02

The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is widely used across higher education institutions in Europe, helping to standardise academic achievements and learning outcomes between different countries and institutions.

03

By aligning UK credits with ECTS, the programme supports student mobility within the EU, making it easier to transfer credits between universities and continue studies across different higher education systems.

Programme 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

Programme Structure

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.

Term 4

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

Term 1

  • Animation: Contexts and Concepts
  • Digital Skills
  • Drawing for Animation
  • Animation Principles

Term 2

  • Animated Cultures
  • Advanced Digital Techniques
  • Short Film
  • Research and Concept
  • Animated Cultures: Study Abroad Option
  • Advanced Digital Techniques: Study Abroad Option
  • Study Abroad Exchange

Term 3

  • Destinations
  • Proposal and Pitch
  • Final Film
  • Dissertation

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Academic Profile

  • Min age: : 17 (titles awarded upon completion of at least 11 years of schooling)
  • Academic Qualifications: ECCTIS UK equivalent to GCSE
  • BA (Hons)
  • 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.
  • Consideration will also be given to applicants with at least three years of relevant managerial experience, provided they can demonstrate the ability to study at postgraduate level.

English Proficiency

  • IELTS: 5.0 overall  TOEFL IBT: 46 (Listening 12, Reading 13, Speaking 18, Writing 14)  . Pearson Test of English (PTE): 46 (with min 41 in each component) .  Duolingo English Test:95+.

Required Documents

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
  • Project management
  • 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

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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.