Architectural Visualisation - MA

Teaching

Teaching and assessment

Modules are taught over three terms, concluding with a Major Project Visualisation, which accounts for one third of the programme. The content of the visualisation is agreed with programme staff and you build a showreel to a professional standard. Each module is assessed by practical assignments. The project work is assessed on the outcome of the project itself.

Programme aims

This programme aims to:

• enable you to develop advanced level skills, knowledge and understanding of digital simulation and 3D modelling, which will equip you to become a highly skilled professional in architectural visualisation
• train you in the requirements and skills needed for work in high definition
• produce professionally-trained architectural visualisers who are highly skilled in using state-of-the-art 3D modelling and visual effects software
• provide proper academic guidance and welfare support for all students
• create an atmosphere of co-operation and partnership between staff and students, and offer you an environment where you can develop your potential.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

• the computer animation production process and pipeline roles
• the principles of architectural modelling for visualisation and games
• the technical terms and methods used in film editing
• the fundamental concepts of digital video technology
• current developments in the architectural visualisation industry and related market sectors
• the relevance of architectural visualisation within the contemporary television and film industries
• the cultural context of architecture in film.

Intellectual skills

You develop intellectual skills in:

• the analysis and interpretation of 3D modelling issues.
• the ability to relate technological options to practical implementation.
• the ability to identify and solve complex problems and issues in the generation of an architectural visualisation
• the ability to identify ideas for enhancing a production’s aesthetic quality by the use of complex video effects
• the ability to demonstrate independence and creative and critical thinking
• the ability to evaluate creatively evidence to support conclusions.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-specific skills in:

• use of appropriate software tools, techniques and packages to produce and develop complex architectural visualisations
• the ability to use drawing as a way of planning, visualising and explaining work in a time-based medium
• the ability to read and make storyboards and animatics at a professional level
• the ability to apply management techniques to the planning, resource allocation and execution of an architectural visualisation project
• the ability to prepare reports and presentations relevant to architectural representation and visualisation.

Transferable skills

You gain the following transferable skills:

• the ability to generate, analyse, present and interpret data
• use of information and communications technology
• personal and interpersonal skills, working as a member of a team
• an ability to communicate effectively, in writing, verbally and through drawings
• the ability for critical thinking, reasoning and reflection
• the ability to manage time and resources within an individual and group project
• the ability to learn independently for the purpose of continuing professional development.

Careers

We have developed our programmes with a number of industrial organisations, which means that successful students are in a strong position to build a long-term career in this important discipline. You develop the skills and capabilities that employers seek, including problem solving, independent thought, report-writing, time management, leadership skills, team-working and good communication.

Building on Kent’s success as the region’s leading institution for student employability, we offer many opportunities for you to gain worthwhile experience and develop the specific skills and aptitudes that employers value.

Study support

Postgraduate resources

Students on the programmes in Architectural Visualisation, Computer Animation and Digital Visual Effects work in a dedicated, state-of-the-art suite, equipped with leading-edge PC workstations running Alias™ Maya and Foundry Nuke. There is also a photographic studio and a production studio with green screen and motion capture facilities. The School is also equipped with a 3D body scanner – one of only two in the UK.

Support

As a postgraduate student, you are part of a thriving research community and receive support through a wide-ranging programme of individual supervision, specialised research seminars, general skills training programmes, and general departmental colloquia, usually with external speakers. We encourage you to attend and present your work at major conferences, as well as taking part in our internal conference and seminar programmes.

Dynamic publishing culture

Staff publish regularly and widely in journals, conference proceedings and books. Recent contributions include: IEEE Transactions; IET Journals; Electronics Letters; Applied Physics; Computers in Human Behaviour.

Global Skills Award

All students registered for a taught Master's programme are eligible to apply for a place on our Global Skills Award Programme. The programme is designed to broaden your understanding of global issues and current affairs as well as to develop personal skills which will enhance your employability.