UCAS Now Open for 2023

UCAS - now open

If you're thinking of applying to Bucks to study on our BA in Animation, the official UCAS application system is now open.  Applications for our undergraduate courses are due by 25th January 2022, but MA applications can be made at any time. However it's always a good idea to get your application in early.

Gateway - BNU's modern media hub

When to Apply
January 25th is the official UCAS deadline for our undergraduate courses.  Of course, we're always on the look out for talent, and even if you apply late we will still consider you. For MA courses you have much more time, but we still recommend applying early. 

Apply Early
Applying early is a good thing; it shows you have drive and commitment, and that you have got yourself well-organised - all good qualities for a career in the creative industries. It also gives you time to get a portfolio ready. 

Where should you apply?
At the official Bucks New University site here.

What sort of work do students do?
To see a recent demo reel, featuring work completed by our talented undergraduate students and recent graduates, check out the video below. 

Bucks - Multi-media hub

Shark by Adam Sale

At Bucks we strongly encourage collaborations between departments. For example, the sound design students are especially keen on collaborations with  animation. We have excellent sound design equipment and super-talented students - you can read more about what they do here.

Animators are film-makers and we want the animators to benefit from the expertise that other departments can bring. Bringing talented students together allows us to collaborate on team projects - and make better work. After all, the animation industry is very much about teamwork, and learning how to collaborate is one of the core skills that students need to succeed.

One of London's leading VFX houses

What about partnerships with Industry?
We have forged many partnerships with industry, especially with with the visual effects industry in Soho, London.

For example: Kevin Spruce, head of animation at Framestore, one of the UK's leading VFX houses, was the external industry assessor for our animation and VFX course, helping to make sure that we train animators who are up to the job of doing the kind of high-end animal and creature work that Framestore specialises in.

We also have informal connections to Cinesite, MPC and other visual effects houses in London and
many studios overseas.

Where can you see the past work done by Bucks students?
Our students have done plenty of excellent work. Take a look at past blog posts showcasing some of the work done by students such as Monika Dzikowicz, Krzysztof Michalski, Lydon Fleisig

Animation by Amedeo Beretta, Jens Kopke, Mike Swan and Clare Hunt.

Also, take a look at our page at YouTube and have a look at some of the videos. Check out our showcase of last year's work.

Do you need a portfolio?
Yes, you will need a portfolio - check out our post here on the kind of portfolio we are looking for.

How should you get ready for the course?
Start reading the right books! Here is a list of useful books to get you started. Number one is The Animator's Survival Kit - every animation student should have a copy. Also, check out the week 1 videos at Animation Apprentice, which are a great introduction to the art of animation. They are all free.

For more on the experience of studying at Bucks New University, come and visit us at one of our Open Days,  take a virtual tour of one of our animation studios, check out what our students think of our course, and see why we're ranked in the top 12 creative universities in the UK.