Computer Arts and Animation HND
(SCQF level 8)
Computing and Digital Technologies, Creative Industries
Mode of Study
Full-time
Start Date
25th Aug 2025, 2 years
Location
City Campus
Applications from International Students Welcome
Overview
On this creative HND programme, you’ll explore a wide range of art and design disciplines while developing your technical skills in digital media, animation, 3D modelling, digital sound, and computer-based art. Through studio-based and live projects, you’ll learn to apply design thinking and creative experimentation across both traditional and emerging technologies.
You’ll build a professional portfolio that reflects your individual creative process and showcases your ability to research, develop, and realise original ideas. The course offers opportunities to engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, exhibitions, and national competitions. By the end of the programme, you’ll be equipped with the creative confidence and technical expertise to progress to art school, university, or a career in the creative industries.
Entry requirements
Minimum entry requirements
- Higher Art and Design at Grade C or above AND National 5 English at Grade C or above; OR
- Level 6 NQ Digital Art and Animation Portfolio, Art and Design, Graphic Design or Illustration; OR
- Other equivalent qualifications or experience
Submission of Digital Portfolio
Submit a portfolio of art and design work that contains:
- 2 examples of finished art or design work.
- 2 examples of research for art or design work.
- 2 examples of development work for art or design work.
- In addition, include at least 5 examples of observational drawing and sketching.
This may be uploaded along with your application or linked to as part of an online portfolio of work.
Additional selection requirements
You will be invited for a group information session where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.
ESOL entry requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.
What you study
Year 1
- Introduction to Animation.
- Art and Design Project Development.
- Developmental Drawing.
- Mixed Media.
- Observational Drawing.
- Story Boarding.
- Motion Studies.
- 3D Computer Visualisation.
- Film and Sound.
- Art and Design Context.
- Introduction to Creative Industries.
Year 2:
- Personal Projects.
- History of Creative Practices.
- Compositing and Motion Graphics.
- 3D Animation Motion Studies.
- Portfolio Building.
- Live Projects.
- Art and Design Presentation.
- Professional Studies.
After the course
Careers
Students who complete their HND can progress to a career in motion graphics as an animator, storyboard artist, layout artist, character developer, compositor, VFX designer and other-related specialist.
There are opportunities for employment in-house or as a self-employed freelancer working for animation studios, VFX companies, TV production companies, web design studios, advertising agencies, and other clients requiring animation or motion graphics sequences. You can also progress to University or Art School. See Progression Routes for further details.
Continuing Study
Due to the ongoing success of the course, many of our graduates move on to a diverse range of art school courses, including: -  
- Glasgow School of Art - Interaction Design, Environmental Art, Product Design and Fine Art Photography, Games and Virtual Reality.   
- Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design. Animation, Fine Art, Art & Philosophy, Experience Design BDes (Hons) and Interior & Environmental Design.
- Edinburgh College of Art - Animation, Graphic Design. 
- Abertay University - BA (Hons) Computer Arts, BA (Hons) Game Design and Production.
- UWS - BA (Hons) Graphic Arts & Moving Image, BSc (Hons) Computer Animation Arts.
- Glasgow Caledonian - BSc (Hons) 3D Animation and Visualisation with pathways for Games and VFX.
- Edinburgh Napier - BSc (Hons) Digital Media & Interaction Design.
Teaching
How the course is taught
The course is taught through a series of practical studio-based projects. There are opportunities to work on live projects and take part in national student competitions. Throughout the year there are visits to exhibitions, and opportunities to attend Design / Animation festivals. In addition, we have a programme of guest speakers, providing insight into the real-world aspects of working in the creative industries.
Assessment methods
Coursework is continuously assessed throughout the academic year through a combination of practical and written project submissions. Opportunities for reassessment are available throughout the year, providing support for continued improvement. In both Year 1 and Year 2, you will complete a graded final project that showcases the skills and knowledge you’ve developed.
Additional Information
Materials
The workshop provides access to a selection of drawing materials; however, you are encouraged to purchase your own sketchbooks and additional art supplies to support your studies. The college offers cloud storage and access to industry-standard software while on campus. You are also welcome to bring your own devices, such as drawing tablets and laptops, to enhance your creative work.
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Mode of Study:
Full-time
Full-time
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Start Date:
25th Aug 2025, 2 years
-
Location:
City Campus
Applications from International Students Welcome