Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
ANITA SUNDET
Academic advisor
Rådgiver
Phone: +47 74 02 26 14
E-mail: anita.sundet@nord.no
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
With market conditions changing rapidly, our bachelor program prepares you for a professional career through employment in existing
production companies, or the creation of your own start-ups. Opportunities to develop a network o...f professional contacts (internship), build
a portfolio of your work, and create ¿student companies¿ will help you prepare for life after graduation.
FURTHER EDUCATION
he Bachelor degree is qualified for further study in a Masters programme both nationally and internationally.
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ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Higher Education Entrance Qualification Proficiency in English language Frequently asked questions about admission APPLICATION
DEADLINESFebruary 1 Local admission for non-European Union/EEA citizens March 1 Applications based on ...prior learning or exceptional
circumstancesApril 1 Local admission for European Union/EEA citizens April 15 Central admission for applicants with Norwegian education
(refer to information about admission to Norwegian-taught programmes) April 15 Local admission for applicants with Norwegian education
(refer to information about admission to Norwegian-taught programmes) NB We do not review qualifications or applications prior to the
applicable deadlines. Applications submitted after the applicable deadlines will not be considered.
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Programme overview
Autumn 2016
Compulsory courses
CG-Art 1
180 ECTS Credits
VFX1010 5 SP
CG-Animation 1
VFX1020 5 SP
Technical Direction 1
VFX1060 5 SP
Art 1
VFX1080 5 SP
Motion Graphics
VFX1030 5 SP
Storytelling
VFX1050 5 SP
Spring 2017
Digital Media
VFX1040 5 SP
Animation History
VFX1090 5 SP
Compositing 1
VFX1070 5 SP
Art 2
VFX1085 5 SP
Media Project 1
VFX1100 10 SP
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2ND STUDY YEAR
Autumn 2017
CG Art 2
VFX2020 10 SP
CG Animation 2
VFX2051 5 SP
Compositing 2
VFX2061 5 SP
Art 3
VFX2031 5 SP
Technical Direction 2
VFX2041 5 SP
Spring 2018
Media Project 3
VFX2080 15 SP
PreProduction
VFX2070 15 SP
Autumn 2018
Technical Direction 3
VFX3011 5 SP
CG Animation 3
VFX3021 10 SP
CG Art 3
VFX3031 10 SP
Compositing 3
VFX3041 5 SP
Spring 2019
Bachelor production
VFX3300 30 SP
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Study plan
PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION
Nord University has made significant investments in this field of study, and is one of the few universities offering a specialization within the creative
and practical part of 3D/VFX. The study program is very production oriented.
In the first year, there is an introduction to various subjects which could become areas of specialization. The five possible areas of specialization in
the bachelor include traditional art, 3D-art, animation, technical direction and compositing. In addition, the first year also includes general subjects
such as storytelling and animation history.
The second year offers some specialization within chosen areas. The first semester is lecture and practice based, with production periods
starting second semester. Film students have coinciding production periods, and collaboration is highly encouraged. The university will also
facilitate students wanting to start student companies, which is advisable in the second year.
The third and final year gives the opportunity for further specialization. The first semester is lecture and practice based with advanced courses in
smaller classes. The final semester is then dedicated to the bachelor production. Students are encouraged to collaborate across various
specializations to achieve the highest possible production quality. It is also possible to collaborate with students from other bachelor studies at the
university, such as film or game students. Another option is to compete for attractive internships at various 3D/VFX houses.
The students also take part in arranging an annual international media festival (&Action), with guest lectures from leading studios and other
industry professionals. The university also participates at other international conferences.
Project work and entrepreneurship:
The study program focuses on project oriented teamwork. Students will get ties to external clients and must learn to tackle the needs of specific
projects, both individually and in groups. There is emphasis on entrepreneurship. The university has connections to local business incubators, and
can assist with business mentoring. This is usually a continuation of established student companies, which might already have a client base and
wish to professionalize.
Software:
The study program uses industry standard software, including:
- Adobe Creative Cloud
- Trapcode Particular Suite
- Maya
- Mudbox
- UVLayout Pro
- Zbrush
- PTGui
- Mari
- Nuke
- Arnold render
- Pixar Tractor 2
- Resolume
- DaVinci Resolve
- Shotgun Studio
In addition, specialized tools might be required for certain projects.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
After complete studies, the students should have reached the following learning outcomes:
Knowledge:
The students should have acquired knowledge and an historical framework on central topics within traditional art, composition, 3Dart, animation,
motiongraphics and compositing, and how these skills may be implemented in a variety of productions.
Skills:
Students must be able to communicate visual ideas and should have developed their aesthetic sense. In addition they have experience with
industry standard techniques and tools for production of high quality 3D/VFX, and how these could best be utilized for different types of production.
Students should also be able to refer to available theory, aiding their decision-making through various stages of production.
General competence:
Students would have experience with teamwork, and should reach a high level of relational competence. Being able to give and receive
constructive criticism in order to craft the best artistic outcome. Independence and innovative solutions are also emphasized, and students should
have an understanding of the needs of the industry.
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ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
APPLICATION DEADLINES
April 15 Central admission for applicants with Norwegian education (refer to information about admission to Norwegian-taught programmes)
April 15 Local admission for applicants with Norwegian education (refer to information about admission to Norwegian-taught programmes)
NB We do not review qualifications or applications prior to the applicable deadlines. Applications submitted after the applicable deadlines will not
be considered.
FURTHER EDUCATION
he Bachelor degree is qualified for further study in a Masters programme both nationally and internationally.
STUDY ABROAD
It is becoming more and more common for students to complete a semester abroad as part of their bachelor degree. Nord University has formal
collaborations with Universidad Politècnica de Valencia og Universidad Complutense de Madrid. In addition an active collaboration with Haapsalu
College in Estonia. Other study places abroad may also be possible. Contact study counselors during studies for more information.
COSTS
No tuition fees. Costs for semester registration and course literature apply.
Some travel expenses must be expected on productions at various locations. Several production periods will span weekends and nights. We
recommend that students make small investments to acquire a Wacom tablet (Intuos 4 or higher), memory stick, external hard drive, headset etc.
If the applicant does not fulfil the requirements for the Higher Education Entrance Qualification but has experience-based competence relevant to
the field of study, he or she may apply for recognition of this competence in order to fulfill the admission requirements.
For more information about the specific requirements for experience-based competencies, contact the study advisor for this programme.
ASSESSMENT METHODS
Student assessment is based on practical tasks, reflection papers, portfolio review and oral presentations.
PROGRAMME EVALUATION
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Subject descriptions (11)
CG-Art 1 VFX1010
In this introductory course, students will develop a concept, then plan and execute
a CG-asset production. This could be assets such as simple vehicles, buildings
and props. Conceptual or more observational. The course starts with foundational
training in 3d modeling, with emphasis on maintaining technically correct models.
Students develop abilities to spot and repair errors. This is followed by an
introduction to UV-mapping, and the creation of efficient UV-layouts. The assets will
be textured using various image-maps to control the final look of a physically
based material. Finally, the assets are presented in a turntable render.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
C G - A R T 1 VFX1010
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
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RECOMMENDED OR REQUIRED READING
Anbefalt tilleggslitteratur
Finch, Christopher (2013). The Cg story : computer-generated animation and special effects. New York: Monacelli Press.
ISBN 9781580933575
Catmull, Edwin E. et al. (2014). Creativity, Inc. : overcoming the unseen forces that stand in the way of true inspiration. London: Bantam Press.
ISBN 978-0-59307-010-9
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Mappe - portfolio - individual delivery, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
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CG-Animation 1 VFX1020
In this introductory course, students will learn the basics of animation using a 3D
software. This could be classic animation exercises like a bouncing ball to more
advanced exercises involving more than one moving object. The course starts with
foundational training in 3D animation, and based on this the students will plan and
produce short animation tests using pre-rigged 3D models. Finally, the animations
are presented as a rendered or captured sequence.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
CG-ANIMATION 1 VFX1020
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Williams, Richard (2009). The animator's survival kit. (Expanded ed.). London: Faber and Faber.
ISBN 9780571238330
Thomas, Frank and Ollie Johnston (1995). The illusion of life : Disney animation. (1st Hyperion ed.). New York: Hyperion. ISBN 0786860707
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ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATIONS
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Mappe - Portfolio-individual delivery, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
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Technical Direction 1 VFX1060
In this introductory course, students will learn the basics of rigging using a 3d
package. Exploration of underlying mechanics of what makes cg characters move.
Focus will start with fundamental appendage functions leading up to more
advanced hierarchical dependencies. By the end of the course. Students will finish
a functioning character rig.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
T E C H N I C A L D I R E C T I O N 1 VFX1060
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Mappe - Portfolio-individual delivery, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
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Art 1 VFX1080
The weekly classes in Art 1 will introduce students to: The materials, techniques
and methods most commonly used in traditional observational drawing. The
fundamentals of mark-making with graphite and chinagraph pencils. The basics of
portraiture. The basics of figure drawing. The basics of composition. The basics of
perpsective. The basics of lighting. (Some of) the major developments in the
History of Art & Design in Europe, America and Asia. The compilation, editing and
maintenance of a personal folio of work appropriate to each individual student¿s
chosen area of specialist study. In the weekly sketch book assignments for Art 1
every student will have the opportunity to: Develop and explore the methods and
techniques covered in each class. Develop and explore their own observational
skills alongside purely imaginative elements or experimental ideas Establish a
regular habit of observing and recording, using both pictorial and verbal methods.
Students will also be encouraged to keep Scrap Books and Note Books to
accompany and enhance both the work done in class and the work done in their
Sketch Books The written exercises in Art 1 will introduce students to: Ideas and
themes in contemporary (and historical) Art Criticism and Design Theory, with
particular relevance to Moving Image history and practice. The methods and
techniques appropriate to developing their own personal awareness of the
importance and significance of all aspects of visual communication.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
ART 1 VFX1080
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
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TEACHING ACTIVITIES AND METHODS
In class students will be required to complete (and scan/photograph and save in the appropriate folder on Fronter):
At home students will be required to complete (and scan/photograph and save in the appropriate folder on Fronter):
None.
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2017 spring).
Mappe - Portfolio, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2017 spring).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
OVERLAPPING COURSES
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Motion Graphics VFX1030
In this introductory course, students will learn the basics of motion graphics. This
could be animated graphics such as infomercials, digital scenography or other
animated content. The course starts with foundational training the software, and
based on this the students will plan and produce short motion graphics animations
using illustrations or other assets and effects. Finally, the animations are presented
as a rendered sequence.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
M O T I O N G R A P H I C S VFX1030
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Mappevurdering - portfolio, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
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OVERLAPPING COURSES
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Storytelling VFX1050
Students will explore the work of character development in terms of script writing
for short films, commercials, music videos, tv and documentaries. This course in
screenwriting is critical for writers, directors, producers and other creative
practitioners involved in the interpretive process. Writing covers the essentials of
storytelling for films and goes into detail about structure, character development,
three-act breakdown and writing effective dialogue. This course also introduces
students to writing for television. Students learn the following disciplines:
Formatting a treatment and screenplay properly. Understanding structure and
story. Creating memorable characters. Writing a 4-page non-dialogue script.
Conveying meaning with visuals, not words. Writing dialogue. Writing scene
descriptions and exposition. Writing loglines and treatments. Understanding mythic
structure in storytelling. Character development in the screenplay. Dialogue
development. The fundamentals of form, structure, character development and
dialogue in feature and short screenplays.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
S T O R Y T E L L I N G VFX1050
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
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RECOMMENDED OR REQUIRED READING
Pensumlitteratur
Field, Syd (2005). Screenplay : the foundations of screenwriting: A Step-by-Step Guide from Concept to finished Script. New Yirk: Delta Trade
Paperbacks.
ISBN 9780385339032
Flinn, Denny Martin (1999). How not to write a screenplay : 101 common mistakes most screenwriters make. New York: Lone Eagle.
ISBN 9781580650151
Keane, Christopher (1998). How to write a selling screenplay : a step-by-step approach to developing your story and writing your screenplay by
one of today's most successful screenwriters and teachers. New York: Broadway Books.
ISBN 9780767900713
Campbell, Joseph (2012). The hero with a thousand faces. (3rd ed.). Novato, California: New World Library.
ISBN 9781577315933
Vogler, Christopher (2007). Writer's Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. (3rd ed.). Studio City: Michael Wiese Productions.
ISBN 9781932907360
Campbell, Joseph et al. (2003). The hero's journey : Joseph Campbell on his life and work. Novato, California: New World Library.
ISBN 9781608681891
McKee, Robert (1999). Story : substance, structure, style, and the principles of screenwriting. London: Methuen.
ISBN 9780413715609
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Mappe - portfolie, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2016 autumn, last instance 2016 autumn).
OVERLAPPING COURSES
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Digital Media VFX1040
This course will help you work structured with digital media files, learn about
different file formats and how you can publish content on web. In the end of the
course you will learn how to build your own digital portfolio and how to publish it on
the web. You will also learn some basic software for production management.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
OVERLAPPING COURSES
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Animation History VFX1090
The Lectures and Practical/Written Exercises will introduce students to: The
structure and anatomy of the human eye and the workings of the human system of
visual perception (and interpretation), from normal/abnormal colour perception
through binocular/stereoptical perception to Persistence of Vision. The
fundamental principles of Moving Image/Animation Finance, Pre-Production,
Production, Post Production, Distribution and Marketing. The historical, social and
technological developments that have led to today's Moving Image technologies,
industries and practices. The dominant developments in Animation/Moving Image
technologies and practices in America and Western Europe with a briefer
introduction (time permitting) to the parallel/complementary developments and
practices in other parts of the world, from Japan and China to Eastern Europe,
Russia and the Middle East.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
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TEACHING ACTIVITIES AND METHODS
ONE:
Practical Assignment (25%): to be submitted in person at Week 4 Class
Zoetrope / Phenakistoscope Exercise
TWO:
Written Assignment (25%):
Outline to be submitted in person at Week 4 Class
First draft to be submitted in person at Week 5 Class
Completed version to be submitted in person at Week 6 Class
Choose one Animated Short Film - in any medium, from any country- from any year between 1892 (the date of Charles-Émile Reynaud's "Pauvre
Pierrot") and 1942 (e.g. "The Ducktators", Warner Bros Propaganda Cartoon, 1942) and write a minimum of 1,000 words (excluding quotes and
references) outlining two or more important aspects of the film's technical, creative and/or historical significance. Additional credit will be given for
appropriate selection of illustrations and for the inclusion of clear points of comparison.
Points to consider:
THREE:
Stop Frame Assignment (25%):
FOUR:
Exam - in place of Week 10 Class - (25%):
Written exam combining Multiple Choice with a short essay topic
None.
OVERLAPPING COURSES
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Compositing 1 VFX1070
In this introductory course, students will learn concepts and techniques related to
Compositing. Starting off with fundamental compositing principles leading to digital
compositing tools. Understanding what to look for and how to tackle problems
where compositing is needed. By the end of the course, students will have an
understanding of what compositing can mean for production of a vfx shot. They will
be able to take CG renders in pass form. Combine them and correct for hand-off to
the next phase of production.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
C O M P O S I T I N G 1 VFX1070
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2017 spring, last instance 2017 spring).
Mappe - portfolio, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2017 spring).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2017 spring, last instance 2017 spring).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2017 spring, last instance 2017 spring).
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Art 2 VFX1085
The weekly classes in Art 2 will allow students to develop and improve their skills
in: Portraiture. Figure drawing. Composition. Perpsective. Lighting. In addition the
weekly classes in Art 2 will improve the students ability to: Understand and
appreciate further developments in the History of Art & Design in Europe, America
and Asia. Maintain and up-date their personal folio of work. In the weekly sketch
book assignments for Art 2 every student will have the opportunity to: Develop and
explore the methods and techniques covered in each class. Develop and explore
their own observational skills alongside purely imaginative elements or
experimental ideas. Pursue the regular habit of observing and recording, using
both pictorial and verbal methods. Students will also be encouraged to maintain
the Scrap Books and Note Books they started in Art 1 (to accompany and enhance
both the work done in class and the work done in their Sketch Books) The written
exercises in Art 2 will allow students to further: Their interest in contemporary (and
historical) Art Criticism and Design Theory, with particular relevance to Moving
Image history and practice. Their own personal awareness of the importance and
significance of all aspects of visual communication.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
ART 2 VFX1085
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
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TEACHING ACTIVITIES AND METHODS
In class students will be required to complete (and scan/photograph and save in the appropriate folder on Fronter):
- weekly observational drawing exercises
At home students will be required to complete (and scan/photograph and save in the appropriate folder on Fronter):
- weekly sketch book assignments
None.
OVERLAPPING COURSES
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Media Project 1 VFX1100
Students will be devided into groups and work with different external clients. They
will learn about teamwork, project management and production of prototypes for
business. Based on their projects they have to write a reflection paper.
No tuition fees. Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.
M E D I A P R O J E C T 1 VFX1100
COURSE EVALUATION
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Students will have mostly self organized group planning and work sessions, with Instructors supervising and guiding those activities. The semi-
independent nature of this projects helps to build confidence within the students, fostering independent thought, and greater intrinsic motivation.
This is a practical production course.No reading list is required, but lecture notes will be provided.
Samlet vurdering (first instance 2017 spring, last instance 2017 spring).
Mappe - Portfolio, worth 100/100 of the grade (first instance 2017 spring).
Arbeidskrav 1 - Mappe, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2017 spring, last instance 2017 spring).
Arbeidskrav 2 - Oppmøte - Attendance, worth 0/100 of the grade (first instance 2017 spring).
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OVERLAPPING COURSES
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