Visual Effects and Motion Graphics

Visual effects and motion graphics are the disciplines behind the imagery that shapes how audiences experience film, television, advertising, games, and digital media. Visual effects encompass the techniques used to create, alter, or enhance moving image sequences that cannot be achieved practically, from digital environments and creature animation to compositing and colour work. Motion graphics applies design principles to moving image in contexts such as title sequences, broadcast graphics, infomercials, and online content.

Together they span a creative and technical landscape that requires both artistic sensibility and proficiency with complex digital tools.

At Teesside University, this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, providing an accessible entry route into degree-level creative and technical study. You will progress through the fundamentals of image-making, design, composition, colour, and digital tools before developing increasingly sophisticated expertise in visual effects and motion graphics production. The programme includes a sandwich placement year, giving you extended professional work experience in the industry during your studies.

This is a significant advantage in a competitive creative sector where portfolio strength and professional connections matter enormously. You will work with professional industry-standard software and develop the kind of production-ready skills that studios and agencies expect.

Graduates work across broadcast television, film and streaming production, advertising agencies, games studios, and digital media companies. Roles include compositors, motion designers, VFX artists, broadcast designers, and production specialists of various kinds. The sector is genuinely global, and graduates from strong practical programmes find opportunities across the UK and internationally.

Further study at postgraduate level in visual effects, animation, or digital media is an option, and some graduates move into freelance practice or establish their own studios.