2D Animation and Stop Motion

2D animation and stop motion is a specialised creative discipline that connects the craft traditions of hand-drawn and physical animation to the contemporary production contexts in which these techniques continue to be valued alongside digital methods. 2D animation encompasses hand-drawn character animation in all its forms, from the classical Disney principles that define what convincing character movement looks like through to more experimental and graphic approaches. Stop motion brings physical materials into the equation, animating three-dimensional objects, puppets, and sets frame by frame to create movement with a tangible, tactile quality that distinguishes it from both 2D drawing and computer-generated imagery.

At Teesside this three-year full-time programme grounds you in the principles that underpin all effective animation, classical principles developed at Disney and refined by generations of practitioners that apply regardless of the specific technique being used. You will develop foundational 2D animation skills using hand-drawn techniques, explore the principles of 3D animation using industry-standard software, and study the history of animation and motion design from its earliest beginnings to the diverse styles and contexts in which it operates today. The programme is designed to give you both creative confidence and technical competence across a range of animation approaches.

A sandwich year and work placement experience are built into the programme, giving you professional experience in an animation or creative industry setting before you graduate and allowing you to build the portfolio and industry contacts that animation careers require.

Graduates move into careers in film and television animation, advertising, music video and commercial production, children's media, game development, and independent animation. Many develop studio careers as animators or directors, while others build portfolio practices combining commercial and personal work. Postgraduate study options include specialist programmes in animation and moving image.