module specification

CU5059 - Anatomy and Character VFX (2025/26)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2025/26
Module title Anatomy and Character VFX
Module level Intermediate (05)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Computing and Digital Media
Total study hours 150
 
50 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
64 hours Guided independent study
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 100%   Project and Documentation
Running in 2025/26

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Autumn semester North Monday Afternoon

Module summary

In order to enable you to produce a professional level character design, this module will cover the study of human anatomy.
General proportion of the human figure.
Torso anatomy.
Upper limbs anatomy.
Lower limbs anatomy.
Facial proportions and key muscular structure.
Additionally, you will receive an introduction to animal anatomy via observation of similarities and differences between animal anatomy and human anatomy.
You will learn the difference between an exoskeleton and an endoskeleton.

The module will prepare you to use and integrate different tools to create realistic 3D models and textures for variety of contexts and applications (including 3D characters and assets for computer games).
In this module you will also gain experience in the workflow of industry standard cloth authoring software; additionally, you will learn to texture and apply the results to your character and/or environmental props.
Finally you will learn how to implement character VFX such as cloth and hair simulation and animation for a game workflow as well as for a movie workflow.
The module also aims to help you to continue development of a personal portfolio by adding a 3D work that demonstrates understanding of the key principles and capability to create a complete and fully rendered 3D character.

Syllabus

> human anatomy for artists:
Torso Anatomy [LO1] [LO2]
Arm and Forearm Anatomy [LO1] [LO2]
Leg and Thigh Anatomy [LO1] [LO2]
Face, Hands and Feet [LO1] [LO2]
>Character Modelling and VFX:
Cloth Design in industry standard software [LO1] [LO3]
Cloth Simulation [LO1] [LO3]
Hair Design [LO1] [LO3]
Hair Simulation [LO1] [LO3]
Character design, implementation and final presentation [LO4]

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The advanced 3D character modelling concepts and theoretical material will be covered in the lectures and workshop-based sessions (using tutorials and relevant examples).  Time will be devoted to the discussion and evaluation of problem solutions.  The student will be expected to spend an equivalent time in private study (research connected with the subject, directed reading, and developing their own modelling, VFX and texturing style/techniques).  In addition to this, a substantial coursework will be set.

Learning outcomes

On completing the module, the student will be able to:

LO1: understand the advanced concepts, creative and technical issues of 3D character’s modelling and texturing workflow.
LO2: demonstrate a working knowledge of human anatomy in practice.
LO3: integrate diverse tools and techniques to realise creative ideas in terms of model realism, materials/textures, target audience and purpose.
LO4: demonstrate a capability to choose the appropriate advanced techniques and tools as well as apply in practice the knowledge and skills to match project requirements and suggest effective problem solutions.

Bibliography