Based in Glasgow, our Game Art and Animation Lecturer Alan Welsh is also a SAE alumnus.
A technical artist with a skill set including creating 3D game assets alongside his work as an educator, in our interview, Alan shares his thoughts on the role of game animators, SAE’s community and how the course prepares students to enter the industry.
Read more below and contact our team if you would like to join a degree at SAE.
What is the power of working as a game animator?
The power of being a game animator in today’s world gives you the ability to bring characters to life.
You can sculpt and create your own characters and environments. These foundational skills help students get into the industry, typically as Junior Animators, Junior Character Artists, or Junior Environment Artists.
Who is this course for?
The course is for aspiring artists, people who want to get into games or VFX.
Whether you have an aptitude for animation or are a complete beginner, we teach the fundamentals and build up your skill set to prepare you for the industry.
What makes this course special?
What’s really great about the course is that it’s a two-year degree, so it’s accelerated. You won’t be here for four years. We train you in the fundamentals, and you get hands-on mentorship with your lecturers. The classes are smaller than traditional campuses, allowing for more one-on-one time with your instructors.
How is the course designed to equip students?
The course starts with teaching the fundamentals and core skill sets such as animation, character art, and environment art. We use up-to-date technology and industry-standard software, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their careers.
What opportunities for creative collaboration are there for the games and animation students?
The collaborative opportunities are extensive. We offer courses in Film Production, Audio Production, Music Business, and Games Programming. These degrees interact with each other, allowing students to work together on projects. For example, Game Art and Animation students can collaborate with Audio Production students to create ambient sounds or music for their scenes.
What are the facilities available for games and animation students?
In our animation lab, students have access to up-to-date computers and industry-standard software, including Autodesk, ZBrush, Substance Painter, and Unreal Engine. These tools allow students to craft high-quality renders for their portfolios and prepare for a career in the industry.
How do tutors bring their professional experience into the course?
Our lectures are delivered by industry professionals with hands-on experience with the hardware and software. The small class sizes provide students with more one-on-one time with their lecturers, helping them get their projects over the finish line and into their portfolios.
What are the career paths and opportunities for students studying the game art and animation course?
Career paths for game art and animation students include concept artist, environment artist, character artist, tech artist, and animator.
We’ve had students secure positions in local studios here in Glasgow. Our network often invites them to come in, show their work, and even guest lecture.
What was your most rewarding moment about teaching this class?
My most rewarding moment as a lecturer at SAE is seeing the students thrive. When they put in the work and create impressive projects, it’s incredibly fulfilling to see them succeed and get their work out there.
What is the best piece of advice for someone looking to start their career in game art and animation?
My best piece of advice is to follow your passion. If animation is what you truly want to do, then go for it. Don’t listen to anyone else; this is your life. Pursue your dreams.
STUDY Game Development at SAE
SAE offers two-year accelerated degree courses in growth creative media industries including Game Design, Game Art and Animation and Games Programming – all aimed at helping the next generation of creative professionals get ahead.
From our expert tutors to our cutting-edge computer labs, SAE’s degree will enable you to master a range of both technical and practical industry-relevant skills.
