Animation Studies Level 5

Animation Drawing Studies at Ballyfermot College is a comprehensive Level 5 foundation course designed to develop your core artistic and drawing abilities. This one-year programme provides the perfect introduction to the dynamic world of animation, offering a strong technical and creative base for aspiring artists. Students will build a robust portfolio while beginning their digital animation journey using industry-standard Wacom tablets in the classroom.

Certification

Graduates of this programme will be awarded a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Art (Award Code: 5M1985). This nationally recognised qualification provides a direct pathway for advanced studies in classical and computer animation.

Course Content

This highly practical course immerses you in the fundamentals of traditional and digital art. You will get hands-on experience exploring a variety of creative mediums—from painting and sculpture to animation layout and figure studies—ensuring your artistic talents are nurtured from day one.

• Figure Studies (5N1869)

• Drawing (5N1862)

• Sculpture (5N1918)

• Animation Drawing Studies (5N1830)

• Painting (5N1302)

• Communications (5N0690)

• Animation Layout Design (5N1552)

• Computer Illustrated Graphic (5N1929)

• Work Experience (5N1356)

Suitability

This course perfectly suits school leavers looking to build a standout portfolio for higher education, mature students returning to education, or budding artists eager to master the fundamentals of animation. If you are a creative individual who wants to refine your traditional drawing skills and smoothly transition into digital formats, this foundation year is the ideal starting point.

Requirements

Academic Requirements:

• Five O6/H7 grades in the Leaving Certificate / LCVP, or a Merit in the Leaving Certificate Applied.

• Alternatively, a relevant QQI Level 4 certificate or equivalent.

• Mature applicants (21+) may have standard academic entry requirements waived.

Portfolio Requirements:
Applicants must bring a portfolio of original artwork completed within the past year to their interview. This portfolio should demonstrate your drawing skills and interests, containing:

• Four A3 size drawings from life or the human figure displaying emotion (e.g., anger, happiness, love, sadness). Quick sketches (under 2 hours per exercise) are preferred over highly finished pieces.

• Approximately twelve pieces of varied artwork, including observational drawings (life drawing/still life), perspective drawing, colour work, and pieces of personal interest.

• A sketchbook featuring quick (5 to 10 minutes) drawings from life, such as people, animals, still life, or interior/exterior buildings. (Note: Do not include drawings of established cartoon characters or work copied directly from books.)