One Degree Program – Two Innovative Specialization Options
The international Animation and Game Master’s degree program provides students with advanced theoretical knowledge and methodological competencies related to the conceptualization and realization of digital animations, games and immersive experiences. The program is taught in English language and combines a high academic standard with a strong practical orientation. It is carried out by an interdisciplinary team of experienced researchers and industry practicioners and offers a comprehensive and hands-on approach to learning that reflects current industry standards. The emphasis on project-based learning allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios, fostering creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. The Master of Arts Animation and Game includes two optional specialization pathways: Technical Direction and Creative Direction.
The curriculum is intended for full time studies. It is offered as 2-semester, 3-semester and a 4-semester program version. Applicants with an 8-semester/240 ECTS Bachelor degree or Diploma are qualified for the 2-semester pathway. Applicants with a 7-semester/210 ECTS Bachelor degree or Diploma are qualified for the 3-semester pathway. The 4-semester version includes an industrial placement semester or, as an alternative, a study abroad semester. It is obligatory for undergraduate applicants holding a 6 semester/180 ECTS Bachelor degree.
CREATIVE DIRECTION SPECIALIZATION
The Creative Direction Specialization aims to qualify students for creative leadership roles in the animation and game industry, such as animation directors, lead game designers, art directors or creative producers. It provides students with intense genre knowledge and critique as well as a mastery of industrial standard producing practices.
Students are enabled to develop compelling, innovative content as well as carry out original research in the field of animations, games and VR-Experiences. Project based learning strategies integrate a variety of relevant subjects, such as animation and game studies, advanced game experience design and game-based learning strategies, narrative design, mise-en-scène and cinematography, IP development and creative direction.
Students develop the ability to define, communicate and implement a directorial vision based on state-of-the-art producing, production management and leadership methods. They gain practical directorial experience by leading animation, game and virtual reality projects in the Animation and Game Bachelor program under the supervision of lecturers with strong industry background.
Do you aim to lead and inspire creative teams in the international animation and game industry? Do you want to qualify for systematic original research and development in the field of animations, games and immersive experiences in order to find innovative creative solutions to real-world issues? Find out how to get enrolled in the Creative Direction Specialization.
TECHNICAL DIRECTION SPECIALIZATION
With its technological approach, the Technical Direction Specialization addresses a qualitative need: rather than concept development, it focuses on finding (innovative) solutions to (technical) problems encountered by students in the professional field. This also ties in with the international context in which the programme has been designed.
Do you enjoy studying scientific literature in search of ways to develop practical applications? In any case, the existing gap between scientific theories and relevant applications offers plenty of opportunities to do so. With this Master you will develop the research skills the field is looking for, and at the same time become an expert in your chosen field.
The Technical Direction Specialization is designed to equip students for leadership roles in the programming and technical aspects of the animation and game industry. This specialization prepares individuals for roles such as technical directors, lead programmers, and technical producers. It focuses on providing students with in-depth knowledge of technical approaches and practices in the field of animations, games, and virtual reality experiences. Emphasizing project-based learning strategies, the curriculum integrates various essential subjects, including advanced programming and technical theory, game development, technical-based learning strategies, coding, algorithm design, and virtual reality technologies. Students are trained to conduct original research in the technical aspects of animations and games. They learn to define, communicate, and implement a technical vision, utilizing cutting-edge programming, production management, and leadership methods. Practical experience is gained through directing programming-intensive animation, game, and virtual reality projects in the Animation and Game Bachelor program under the guidance of experienced instructors.