Interactive Media and Animation

Profile of the Programme

Interactive media refers to the creative integration of various content forms, including text, still images, graphics, animation, video, sound, and interactivity. It is a dynamic field that spans diverse applications such as animation, user interface and web design, user experience, video and sound production, e-publishing, e-learning, computer graphics and 3D modelling, computer games, virtual and augmented reality, and the visual arts.

The BA in Interactive Media and Animation blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, focusing on the concepts and techniques essential for the design and development of advanced interactive media applications. Over the course of this four-year programme, students will gain a deep understanding of key theoretical principles, contemporary design practices, and problem-solving strategies, while also developing strong communication and teamwork skills.

The programme is designed to equip students with a broad range of core and specialized skills in interactive media, preparing them to meet the evolving demands of the industry. The multimedia sector is rapidly changing due to technological advancements, trends, and innovations driven by research and development. As such, this programme ensures students receive cutting-edge training relevant to these shifts, empowering them to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-evolving landscape.

Moreover, the curriculum encourages students to engage critically with the theoretical debates, historical contexts, and emerging developments within the interactive media field. It aims to cultivate a combination of practical expertise, creative vision, and professional qualities, preparing graduates for both advanced study and successful careers in the industry.

Ultimately, the programme strives to produce high-calibre graduates who are equipped to become leaders in the creative industries. By staying attuned to current and future trends, they will be able to adapt their skills and expertise to meet the challenges of an ever-changing interactive media landscape.

Academic Admission

The minimum admission requirement to an undergraduate programme of study is a recognized High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) or equivalent internationally recognized qualification(s). Students with a lower HSLC grade than 7.5/10 or 15/20 or equivalent depending on the grading system of the country issuing the HSLC are provided with extra academic guidance and monitoring during the first year of their studies.

In addition to the above all applicants are expected to submit a portfolio of art/design/multimedia, ideally in both electronic and physical form.

Portfolios will be submitted by the applicant during an interview, which may be conducted online, scheduled by the University of Nicosia and will be assessed by the Department’s admissions panel. The interview takes the form of a discussion around the applicant’s range of skills and interests, focusing on the portfolio of work in graphic and/or multimedia design, the arts or related areas.

The interview and portfolio review is a two-way process and assesses students’ skills and interests; students are given the opportunity to ask questions about the programme and the Department and to have a look at the facilities.

English Language Proficiency

The list below provides the minimum English Language Requirements (ELR) for enrollment to the programme of study. Students who do not possess any of the qualifications or stipulated grades listed below and hold IELTS with 4.5 and above, are required to take UNIC’s NEPTON English Placement Test (with no charge) and will receive English Language support classes.

• IELTS, 6 and above
• Anglia Examinations, Advanced and above
• Cambridge GCE AS Level English Language, C and above
• Cambridge GCE English A Levels, C and above
• Cambridge IGCSE or GCSE English as a First language, C and above
• Cambridge IGCSE or GCSE English as a Second language, B and above
• IB English A: Literature SL & HL, 4 and above
• IB English Standard Level (SL), 5 and above
• IB English High Level (HL), 4 and above
• Michigan Language Assessment (also known as Proficiency of Michigan), 650 and above
• Password Test, 6 and above
• TOEFL (IBT), 72 and above
• Cambridge Exams (First Certificate), 160 and above or Pass
• Cambridge Exams (Proficiency Certificate), 180 and above or Pass

Course assessment usually comprises of a comprehensive final exam and continuous assessment. Continuous assessment can include amongst others, mid terms, projects, and class participation. Letter grades are calculated based on the weight of the final exam and the continuous assessment and the actual numerical marks obtained in these two assessment components. Based on the course grades the student’s semester grade point average (GPA) and cumulative point average (CPA) are calculated.

Graduates of the Interactive Media and Animation programme are highly prepared for diverse and evolving career opportunities in the creative and digital industries. With expertise in animation, interactive design, and emerging technologies, they are well-suited for roles such as:

• Animator
• Game Designer
• Virtual Reality (VR) Specialist
• Interactive Media Specialist
• Multimedia Designer
• Visual Effects (VFX) Artist
• Motion Graphics Designer
• UX/UI Designer
• Web designer and developer
• Creative Project Manager

Upon successful completion of this program, the students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate comprehensive practical and theoretical knowledge in the design, creation, and manipulation of digital media elements for interactive media production.
2. Evaluate the underlying technologies and frameworks that support common digital media components.
3. Apply critical problem-solving strategies in the design, development, and optimization of interactive media applications.
4. Synthesize and adapt knowledge to stay current with technological advancements in the interactive media field, ensuring relevance in an ever-evolving industry.
5. Exhibit advanced independent learning, research, and critical thinking skills to drive self-directed study and innovation in interactive media.
6. Analyze client communication and design requirements, formulate solutions, and resolve challenges to meet project objectives effectively.
7. Collaborate effectively in team settings, coordinate the roles and responsibilities of team members, and demonstrate adaptability by both leading and accepting direction within collaborative projects.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Semester 4

Semester 5

Semester 6

Semester 7

Semester 8

The above semester breakdown is an indicative one. A few of the courses are electives and can be substituted by others. Students may contact their academic advisor and consult their academic pathway found on this website under “Schools & Programmes”.