Escape Studios launches new undergraduate course in 2D Animation

Escape Studios has launched a new undergraduate pathway in 2D Animation, to complement its existing 3D Animation programme, along with its leading courses in Visual Effects and Game Art. 

This new course will provide studio-ready talent for the 2D Animation industry, which has experienced a significant revival, both in the UK and overseas as studios develop new films and shows. 

Students will use the latest industry tools and technology including ToonBoom Harmony, Adobe Animate and Blender as part of the BA (Hons)/MArt The Art of Computer Animation programme. The first intake of students will take place in September 2022 and applications are now open for those looking to start in 2023 and beyond. 

Alex Williams, Dean/Director of Animation and Visual Effects at Escape Studios, said: “The industry demand for more 2D Animators in recent years has been phenomenal. We’re delighted to help develop future talent in this exciting area through our new 2D pathway at Escape Studios.” 

“For me personally it's a return to my animation roots - my first animation job was on Who Framed Roger Rabbit. As part of this revival, the animation industry is increasingly software agnostic, meaning that the key skills required for an animator are the ability to create a performance, to master timing and spacing.” 

Students will bring their characters to life from day one working in industry-style studios and as part of a team on high-quality creative projects. They will have intensive, hands-on tutorials with industry-trained tutors who, alongside practising animation professionals, will provide regular feedback. 

Escape Studios has been at the forefront of teaching computer animation since 2002, using industry-professional software such as Maya and Toon Boom Harmony. This enables students to become skilled in the various departments within the animation pipeline, from pre-production to post-production, including 2D Animation and 3D Animation, but also Storyboarding and Previsualisation.