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DL920- MA 3D Animation -
Ontario Colleges Pathway

Ireland’s first Master’s degree in 3D Animation developed in association with Sheridan College, and Seneca Polytechnic, Toronto.

Please note: IADT’s full MA in 3D Animation is not being offered in its entirety at this time. This programme is only offered to graduates of Sheridan College and Seneca Polytechnic.

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linkMA 3D Animation Application Form

Since 2019, this programme option provides an opportunity for graduates of Sheridan Colleges Computer Animation, Creature, and VFX postgraduate certificates as well as graduates from Seneca Polytechnics 3D Animation, Game Art & Animation and Visual Effects for Film & Television postgraduate certificates to complete a Master of Arts degree through The National Film School in IADT. From the 2025-26 academic year, we are able to offer this MA pathway to graduates from Seneca Polytechnic’s Post graduate certificate in 3D Animation.

Through an agreement between the Ontario Colleges and The Higher Education Authority of Ireland, IADT will accept Sheridan and Seneca postgraduate certificates in these areas as equivalent to the first two semesters of its own three-semester MA in 3D programme. Sheridan and Seneca graduates can achieve an MA by successfully completing a research methods module leading to the substantial major project module.

This agreement is designed to progress the skills learned at Sheridan and Seneca into a focused self-directed final project that will advance the technical, professional, and critical capacity of the students through the development and completion of a creative and/or research-based project to Master’s level.

How does the process work?

There are several steps to the process.

Step one. Candidates must apply with supporting paperwork showing their completion of a Sheridan and Seneca certificate(s) in the fields described above. Applications must also include a preliminary project idea that develops or extends their work in the area they have previously studied. Samples of work indicating the applicant’s ability to complete to the proposed project will be required. Students will apply and be notified according to the schedule below.

Step two. Students must undertake a ten-week (42 hour) Module in Research Methods for the Creative Practices offered through IADT. This starts in late September. This will introduce you to the methods of investigation, critical thinking, project development, and information gathering that are central to Master’s level work in the creative disciplines. It will also introduce you to IADT’s online resources. The module will be conducted remotely, and will consist of online lectures, recorded content, and individual tutorials. During this module you will create a detailed project proposal with supporting material, a plan of action, and a project plan timeline. This module must be successfully completed before students can enrol in the Major Project module.

Step three. On successful completion of the Research Methods for the Creative Practices module, students will progress onto the Major Project module, which starts in mid-January. They will spend the first two weeks in Dublin as we begin project work, and then may choose where they wish to continue their work. Students will be assigned a supervisor, and will have access to additional staff and teaching support as needed.

The Major Project Module

The Major Project module is built around independent practice, and therefore there are no scheduled classes. The projects are driven by the needs and curiosity of each student, and are independently conceived pieces of high-level creative, professional, or research activity. Students will drive the process, with support and guidance from supervisors. Interim deadlines will be assigned to keep everyone on track.

The Major Project will culminate in a final project presentation, in a form selected by the student, along with supporting research and reflective elements for assessment by a panel of academic and discipline experts. This can take a number of forms, and will be agreed between students and the teaching team during the initial phase in person in Dublin, with a point for re-evaluation in the middle of the module. Graduate work will be displayed during IADT’s Exhibition and Showcase in late May

What do I need to apply?

A completed postgraduate from Sheridan College or Seneca Polytechnic (or a letter stating that successful completion will be achieved), transcripts, and a completed IADT application form.

You will asked for a preliminary project idea, which can be developed through the Research Methods module. You must provide examples of work that show your ability to undertake the project, as well as a statement about your preparedness to do the work. We sincerely welcome applicants who have been working in their professional areas and want to return to education to complete an MA, as well as recent graduates. We suggest that each applicant contact the MA programme chairs to discuss their applications before submission.

Important Dates 2025-26

Application Deadline: 22nd August 2025 @ 5pm IST.

Applications submitted before the deadline, will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and places may be offered earlier. All Applicants will receive the admissions outcome no later than the 5th September 2025.

Xi Zhang

Project title: Creating a high quality photo realistic 3D avatar based on a single photograph

David Shepstone

Project title: A brief history of musical timing in animation production

Mehran Davoodi

Project title: Mithra Lighting Toolbox for Houdini Solaris

Charlit Florino

Project title: Understanding Virtual Bodies: A case for the use of simple & stylised avatars in social VR.

FAQs

Is there housing at IADT?

No, IADT does not operate student housing. It is close to the city of Dublin, and to the towns of Bray, Dún Laoghaire, and Greystones where accommodation may be rented. Out International Office will be able to assist with some options as well as advice.

Is there transport nearby?

IADT is on two bus lines, and there is commuter rail available in nearby Dún Laoghaire.

Are there scholarships at IADT?

There are currently no scholarships or financial assistance for international students at IADT.

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Requirements

Course Code DL920 - Level 9
Application IADT
Duration September 2025-May 2026
Portfolio Yes
Application Deadline 22nd August 2025 @ 5pm IST

Applications submitted before the deadline, will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and places may be offered earlier. All Applicants will receive the admissions outcome no later than the 5th September 2025.
Fees€5,900
Application Deadline22nd August 2025 @ 5pm IST

Applications submitted before the deadline, will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and places may be offered earlier. All Applicants will receive the admissions outcome no later than the 5th September 2025.

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DL920- MA 3D Animation - Ontario Colleges Pathway