The University of Salford is pioneering a new educational path with the UK’s first motion capture diploma, addressing a growing need in various industries.
- Applications are open for the DipHE Motion Capture for Screen Studies programme, commencing in September 2025.
- This initiative positions Salford as the UK’s leader in higher education for motion capture, a field experiencing rapid growth.
- The course is spearheaded by industry experts Connoll Pavey and Jake Louden, promising comprehensive training in cutting-edge technologies.
- The unique diploma offers significant career opportunities across sectors such as gaming, television, film, and even healthcare.
The University of Salford has taken a groundbreaking step by launching the UK’s first diploma specifically aimed at training students in motion capture technology. This new educational offering, the DipHE Motion Capture for Screen Studies programme, is set to begin in September 2025, and applications are currently open.
Salford’s distinct position as the first higher education institution in the UK to offer such a specialist degree underscores its leadership in this innovative field. While other institutions may teach brief five-day courses, Salford provides a comprehensive two-year full-time programme that delves deeply into the subject.
The development of this course comes on the heels of Salford’s award-winning performance in digital education, evidenced by its receipt of the Digital Education and Development Award at the 2024 Educate North Awards. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with leading industry figures, learning not just the technical skills required but also gaining invaluable industry experience.
Under the guidance of acclaimed technicians Connoll Pavey and Jake Louden, the course will equip students with the ability to not only understand the fundamental principles of motion capture technology but also manage entire projects from conception to completion. Students will collaborate with industry partners, providing them with firsthand experience in a studio setting.
Significantly, the programme is offered in association with the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology and can also be pursued as a one-year Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE), allowing flexibility for students.
The motion capture sector, although still expanding within the UK, presents a promising future, with job growth forecasted at 4.6% over the next six years. While the technology is traditionally associated with screen industries, its potential applications extend into health and other dynamic sectors, broadening the horizon for graduates.
Jake Louden highlights the multifunctional nature of motion capture, noting its critical role in film production and its emerging value in varied fields like medicine and scientific research. This programme aims to prime students for these evolving roles.
Consultations with major players, such as Cloud Imperium Games and MediaCity’s leading dock10 studio, ensure that course components are aligned with industry requirements. Students will benefit from this collaboration through potential placements, enabling them to gain confidence and readiness for professional challenges.
The educational experience will take place in a purpose-built motion capture studio located in Salford’s New Adelphi Building on the Peel Park campus, providing a state-of-the-art learning environment.
The University of Salford’s innovative diploma paves the way for future leaders in the burgeoning field of motion capture technology.
