BA (Hons) in Animation and Illustration, Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest (TUS)

Althone, Leinster

48 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This programme is unique to the midlands campus as no other educational provider offers a combination of both animation and illustration at undergraduate level in Ireland. Graduates will have the skills to apply their understanding of illustration fundamentals and animation principles across various sectors both in Ireland and internationally. The course emphasizes independent learning, collaboration, and the development of strong analytical, IT, and critical reasoning skills to produce visually appealing, imaginative artwork. It responds to the significant global growth in animation and illustration industries, especially within Ireland's thriving digital economy, which includes opportunities in print, television, cinema, video games, mobile platforms, immersive exhibitions, virtual, and augmented reality.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students passionate about both animation and illustration since it’s the only undergraduate programme in Ireland offering this unique blend. It prepares students for the expanding global market, with a focus on industry standards and employability. The programme’s strong industry links, including collaborations with Irish studios and events like the Animation Fair, provide valuable networking opportunities and industry exposure, making it a highly practical choice for aspiring animators and illustrators.

Specialisation

The programme combines both animation and illustration, focusing on developing foundational skills and advanced techniques in each field through various modules spanning four years. It covers areas such as character design, storyboarding, environment design, scriptwriting, and studio production, ensuring students gain comprehensive knowledge to excel in creative industries.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

12.19L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to meet the Leaving Certificate requirements of Grade H5 in two subjects and Grade O6 in four others, including Mathematics and a language (English or Irish). QQI applicants must hold specific awards with distinctions in three modules, and mature applicants may need to attend an interview or aptitude test. International students should apply via the International Office and allow ample processing time for visas.

English language test

IELTS

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

105

Career prospects

Graduates have gone on to work with internationally acclaimed animation studios, some as independent creators or entrepreneurs in print and digital illustration. Roles include background artist, character designer, animator, VFX artist, storyboard artist, comic artist, and production manager. The programme supports further postgraduate study and has strong industry ties, increasing employment opportunities within Ireland's creative sector and beyond.

FAQs

What should I include in my portfolio?

Your portfolio should showcase your enthusiasm for animation and illustration with high-quality artwork, including a completed sketchbook with observational studies, experimental work, and 8-10 finished pieces varying in subject matter. Up to 5 sketchbooks can be included, with a focus on origination, creativity, and originality.

When is the portfolio submission deadline?

The online portfolio upload opens on March 14, 2025, and closes on March 28, 2025. You will receive instructions on how to upload once your application is processed.