This module enables the learner to assess and apply their understanding of the role played in the concept stages of a 3d project. Through the development of asset and character designs based on industry informed briefs the learners will learn the process of developing concepts for 3d and how these are prepared and passed on to the next stage in the production pipeline.

1. Evaluate the limitations of the various 3d environments and the effect they have on concepts
2. Generate a range of ideas using traditional and digital methods
3. Create finalised, 3d ready designs by applying perspective and orthographic principles
4. Create pitch ready concept art documents
5. Critique the role and positioning of concept art within the 3d production pipeline

In this module the student will be introduced to the core principles of modelling and sculpting 3d assets. Working from concept art the students will create game assets and characters for various 3d environments and ready the final outcomes for use in further stages of the production pipeline.

1. Utilise concept design documents for use in a 3D modelling package
2. Create and refine 3D models using appropriate software
3. Evaluate mesh topology and the implications for animation and texture development
4. Develop a 3D model for use in a digital sculpting package
5. Demonstrate Output render passes from sculpting package for use in rendering environments.
6. Develop the model for texturing packages
7. Develop model for 3D printing

In the module the student will learn to develop shaders in 3d packages using images created digitally and procedurally. Shaders can contain multiple images and parameters to control their visual output and complex textures such as normal maps and displacement maps are commonly needed to create content for 3d environments. Different types of textures will be introduced and developed using digital sculpting and imaging software.

Rendering will be covered using industry standard engines and techniques. The student will learn to output the key passes needed to create a fully rendered image or animation. Lighting and composition for output will also be covered in this module.

1. Create textures for environments and models
2. Demonstrate Light scenes’ for efficient rendering
3. Render scenes using the most effective settings
4. Create turntable animations of models
5. Demonstrate Composite passes in 2d and moving image packages
6. Demonstrate Output final images and movies from the 3d package

This module introduces the student to the technical aspects of rigging and animating in a 3d package. The student will be taught how to simplify complex animation by using sliders, control objects and shapes to control complex rigging systems such as facial rigs. The principles of machine based and character based animation will be taught with a focus on the technical aspects of the process. Animation techniques such as bones, skinning, morphs and hierarchies will be introduced and used in the creation of the final output. The student will also be introduced to the limitations of specific 3d platforms and how to optimise for best results.

1. Design animation breakdown sheets
2. Create facial rigs for lip syncing and expressive animation
3. Utilise constraints and control objects to create user friendly animation systems
4. Animate objects and characters in 3d space
5. Demonstrate keyframe sheets and animation graphs within 3d programs
6. Animate using sound as reference

The aims of this module are to:

• Develop the learner’s awareness of work related issues and professional standards in the business environment.

• Develop as a reflective practitioner in the business environment.

• Develop situated context learning to complement the learner’s formal learning and explicit documented knowledge.

1. Apply, in a practical manner to the business environment, knowledge, skills and competencies gained through formal study.
2. Examine and critically analyse how work is planned and organised at different levels within an organisation.
3. Work effectively both as an individual and as a team member.
4. Reflect and analyse the learning experience resulting from the work placement.
5. Recognise and examine areas of learning that are important for professional development and best practice.

The final project allows the student to create digital content or complete projects based on the 3d pipeline learned throughout the course. Students will be expected to research current trends in the 3d content creation industry and design a brief based on what they see as possible gaps in the market or business opportunities. They will then pitch the idea to the tutors and class so as to get feedback and rework it for a final project.

The remainder of the module will be based on developing the project to completion, a pitch or to a prototype level. Tutors will guide each student individually through the production stages providing advice and assistance throughout. The final result will be exhibited at an end of year show.

1. Develop brief for a design based project
2. Evaluate future trends of the 3d market
3. Develop and pitch an idea in a public arena
4. Demonstrate breakdown of projects into tasks and milestones
5. Determine and evaluate the constraints of various 3d environments
6. Project manage a project to completion using industry standard scrum and agile based approaches
7. Demonstrate the completion of a project which is at exhibition and publishing level