Digital arts, animation, games and VFX

It’s a good idea to take A-levels that build your creative and technical skills. Here are some recommended subjects:

• Art and design: this helps you develop your artistic skills and build a strong portfolio.
• Computer science: useful for understanding the technical aspects of digital art and game development.
• Mathematics: important for areas like 3D modelling, animation, and game physics.
• Graphic design: provides a foundation in design principles and software skills.
• Media studies: offers insights into the media industry and helps with understanding visual storytelling.

These subjects will give you a solid foundation and help you succeed in your degree and future career.

To get into the video games industry, employers typically want to see a portfolio of your work to ensure you're suitable for a junior role. This portfolio showcases your skills and creativity. Alternatively, you might become an indie developer, which requires a broad skillset to create games from scratch. A university degree can provide you with the technical skills and industry knowledge needed for a professional career. Additionally, gaining experience through internships, participating in game jams, and networking with industry professionals can significantly boost your chances.

CGI artists and companies create special effects, characters, and environments for a wide range of media. This includes art, printed media, video games, virtual reality, computer animation, and VFX in films, TV shows, and commercials. They use advanced software and techniques to bring imaginative concepts to life and enhance visual storytelling.

Solent Creatives is our in-house agency where you can pitch for paid work with real clients. Past clients have included Bear Grylls, the BBC, and Southampton Airport. This gives you the chance to gain real-world experience and build your portfolio while studying.

We also have strong links with major industry players like Framestore, Cinesite, and DNEG. These connections provide opportunities for internships, guest lectures, and networking events, helping you make valuable contacts in the industry.

You'll get to work on live projects, participate in game jams, and collaborate with film students on VFX projects. This hands-on approach ensures you're well-prepared for the job market.

We have some great societies for digital art, animation, games and VFX students. Here are some of the student societies you can join:

• Solent Video Games Society: if you're into gaming, this society is for you. It's a great place to meet fellow gamers, discuss game design, and even work on game development projects together.
• Film Production Society: ideal for students interested in film production, this society lets you collaborate on film projects, learn new techniques, and showcase your work.
• Solent Cinema: if you're into film production and want to work on movie projects, this society is for you. It's a great way to meet like-minded people and gain hands-on experience.
• Radio Sonar: this is the student-led radio station where you can get involved in radio broadcasting and production. It's a fantastic opportunity to develop your skills and create your own shows.
• Sonar Events: an award-winning TV and live events society. If you love working on set, filming sports, lighting a music studio, or mixing a live event, this is the place for you. They offer training and hands-on experience in various aspects of TV and live event production.

These societies are a great way to build your skills, make new friends, and have fun while you're at uni. If you don't find a society that fits your interests, you can always start your own!