Why a bicoastal partnership is reshaping VFX education
Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) has announced a strategic collaboration with ARTFX, the UK’s leading animation and visual‑effects (VFX) institution. Together they are opening a dedicated VFX hub in Shoreditch, London, scheduled to welcome students in January 2026.
AUB’s own reputation for combining creative practice with academic rigor, paired with ARTFX’s industry‑accredited programmes, creates a unique curriculum aimed at training professionals equipped for the demands of contemporary film, television and game studios.
What the new London campus brings to aspiring VFX artists
The campus will house the MA Visual Effects and Photorealistic Computer Graphics, a 10‑month intensive postgraduate programme. By situating the school in the heart of London’s creative district, students gain:
- Immediate proximity to top studios such as DNEG, Framestore, Electric Theatre Collective and One Of Us.
- Hands‑on studio partnerships, where industry mentors conduct tutorials and provide real‑time feedback.
- A professional training centre that operates year‑round, offering workshops and certifications for ongoing skill development.
Buildings designed to function as an incubator, the campus will feature live‑streaming production studios, state‑of‑the‑art rendering suites and collaborative workspaces that mimic a real studio pipeline.
Industry endorsements and networking opportunities
Key figures from leading firms have voiced support. Amy Smith, Global Director of Framestore, noted that the partnership “directly contributes to training the talent that our studios need.” The partnership also aligns with the Visual Effects Society London Section, which has chosen the facility as its official address and headquarters. This signals industry recognition and opens doors for students to attend events, pitch sessions and panel discussions.
The curriculum: balancing theory, practice and career readiness
Core modules
Semester design ensures that students cover both fundamental and advanced topics:
- Visual Effects Foundations – compositing, key‑framing and character rigging.
- Photorealistic Rendering – advanced shader development, lighting and camera simulation.
- Industry Pipeline Integration – real‑world workflow, asset management and version control.
- Portfolio Development – showcase production on a commercial reel for job placements.
Studio‑style projects
Students work on capped projects that mimic studio briefs. For instance, a recent cohort was tasked with creating a short, fully‑animated sequence for an international advertising campaign. The deliverable was then presented to a panel of professionals, offering direct feedback and potential placement offers.
Access and admissions
AUB’s application process remains straightforward. Prospective students must submit proof of portfolio, a statement of purpose and references. The university encourages applicants to visit the London campus via a free Open Day – book today to secure a spot and experience the facilities first‑hand.
Financial support is also available; the partnership’s position in London allows students to tap into scholarships, industry‑sponsored bursaries and on‑campus work‑study options.
Implications for the wider creative economy
By situating a VFX hub in Shoreditch, AUB and ARTFX foster a creative ecosystem that benefits both academia and industry. Students bring fresh ideas into established studios and, conversely, studios provide industry insight that shapes the curriculum. This feedback loop fuels higher employability, drives innovation and helps the UK maintain its competitive edge in global film and gaming markets.
How to get involved — next steps for prospective students
Ready to position yourself on the cutting edge of visual storytelling? Start by:
- Applying directly to the MA programme – complete the online application by the deadline.
- Booking an open day at the Shoreditch campus shows the real atmosphere and facilities you’ll experience.
- Contacting the admissions team for a personalised curriculum consultation if you need guidance on your application or portfolio preparation.
With this partnership, Arts University Bournemouth is not only expanding its international footprint but also investing directly in the talent pipeline that fuels the VFX industry’s evolution. Stay informed about future programme launches by subscribing to AUB’s news updates and social channels.
To explore the 2025 cohort’s portfolio highlights or to learn more about related programmes like the BA Hons in Modelmaking for Industry, simply click through our course catalogue.
When you’re ready, take the next step – secure your place in a world that turns imagination into visual reality.
