VIRTUAL PRODUCTION - 2026/7

Module Overview

Virtual production is an innovative filmmaking approach that combines real-time 3D graphics, game engine technology, and live-action techniques to create immersive production environments for film and television. This module provides final-year undergraduate students with an understanding of virtual production techniques, focusing on the integration of Unreal Engine with real-time 3D environments, motion capture, and LED walls. You will explore the latest virtual production workflows used in film and broadcasting, applying your game engine and 3D environment skills in new professional contexts. By the end of the module, you will be able to design, manage, and execute virtual production projects, implementing specialist skills from other areas for game design as needed. This module preparing you for professional roles in the film and TV industries where games technologies, real-time production methods and virtual production are increasingly being used.

Module provider

Music & Media

Module Leader

WEINEL Jon (Music & Med)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 6

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Semester 2

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

N/A

Module content

Indicative content includes: 

• Overview of virtual production
• Unreal Engine in virtual production
• Motion capture and performance capture
• Virtual cameras and cinematography
• LED walls and in-camera VFX
• Set design and virtual environments
• Asset integration and pipeline management
• Collaboration and workflow in virtual production
• Project planning and management
• Advanced techniques in virtual production
• Case studies and industry insights
• Project work

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to enable students to demonstrate their understanding of virtual production techniques and workflows, combining creative, technical, and collaborative skills across the planning, production, and presentation of a virtual production project. Assessments will evaluate students¿ ability to apply virtual production technologies, analyse form and context, and communicate ideas effectively through visual and digital media. Students will show critical and reflective engagement with the creative, cultural, and ethical dimensions of virtual production, situating their work within contemporary digital arts and industry practices. The assessment approach supports the development of professional, analytical, and creative skills that feed directly into future careers in fields such as film & TV where games technologies are used. 

Assessment 1: Virtual Production Project

This assessment requires students to present a group project including planning, production, execution and presentation of a virtual production. This will be accompanies by a critical reflection which evaluates the creative and technical processes used. 

Formative assessment and feedback are integrated throughout the module during the workshops. Continuous feedback is provided during these sessions through group critiques and discussions of work-in-progress, allowing students to refine their projects in response to direct tutor and peer input. Individual technical support and targeted feedback are offered at key stages of the production process.

Module aims

• Develop an understanding of virtual production pipelines and workflows.
• Develop proficiency in using game engines for virtual production.
• Gain hands-on experience with virtual production technologies such as LED walls and real-time compositing
• Enable students to learn about multidsciplinary collaboration as it applies in virtual production.
• Prepare students to manage and execute a virtual production project.

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy for this module is designed to develop specialist skills in virtual production through a combination of lectures, seminars, and lab-based project work. It builds on prior experience in areas such as 3D modelling, animation, scripting, motion capture and visual effects, showing how these skills integrate within professional virtual production workflows. Students will explore the creative and technical processes that underpin the production pipeline, learning how to combine real-time rendering, LED wall systems, and in-camera VFX techniques. The module encourages both independent and collaborative learning, fostering creativity, resourcefulness, and resilience through experimentation, problem-solving, and the development of professional working practices. 

Learning and teaching methods will include lectures and workshops. Lectures will introduce theoretical principles and practical approaches related to virtual production pipelines, enhancing student understanding and critical awareness of virtual production. Workshops will provide students with the opportunity to explore industry-standard virtual production equipment and software. Students will be encouraged to engage in collaborative work designing and realising their own virtual productions, drawing on their diverse skillsets and specialistsm. The module also integrates preparatory reading and other supporting materials. This approach supports students in developing their ability to design, manage, and evaluate complex virtual production projects, strengthening both their technical expertise and their creative confidence in professional contexts.

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: DMA3022

Other information

The Department of Music and Media is committed to developing graduates with attributes encompassing Employability, Digital Capabilities, Global and Cultural Capabilities, Sustainability, and Resourcefulness and Resilience. 

Employability: This module enhances students¿ professional readiness for careers in film, television and related creative industries using game technologies, addressing key skills gaps in virtual production. Delivered by tutors and industry specialists, it develops proficiency with professional tools and techniques such as Unreal Engine, LED walls, and in-camera VFX, while fostering collaborative and interpersonal skills essential for creative studio environments. 

Digital Capabilities: Students will gain advanced technical skills in the use of real-time 3D environments, motion capture, and LED wall integration within virtual production workflows. Workshops and collaborative exercises also strengthen digital communication and project-sharing skills using various digital production and collaboration tools. 

Global and Cultural Capabilities: Virtual production is a global medium that connects diverse stories, cultures, and creative traditions. Students will engage with visual production practices from a range of cultural contexts, developing cultural awareness, creative empathy, and the ability to represent multiple perspectives within their work. 

Sustainability: The module promotes awareness of sustainable production practices, including the use of virtual sets, LED lighting, and efficient workflows to reduce travel, waste, and environmental impact. Students are introduced to industry sustainability initiatives such as BAFTA Albert and the Screen New Deal, and are encouraged to reflect these values in both production methods and creative themes. 

Resourcefulness and Resilience: Students are challenged to respond creatively and flexibly to technical and artistic problems, developing independence and confidence in solving real-world production challenges. Collaboration and peer learning are central to the studio environment, encouraging the sharing of knowledge and the development of innovative solutions within a supportive, professional context.

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2026/7 academic year.