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I had no experience in VFX before starting the course, but I was familiar with Unreal Engine from an environment art perspective, which helped me find my footing quickly. I knew I wanted to challenge myself and grow technically — and this course gave me the space to do that.Maja Oszczypala | Abertay University | MSc Technical Arts and Visual Effects
After completing her undergraduate degree in Computer Arts at Abertay, Maja Oszczypala realised her passion lay in the more technical aspects of her studies. Eager to deepen her skills and explore new creative possibilities, she decided to stay at Abertay and pursue a Master’s in Technical Arts and Visual Effects.
Throughout the MSc, Maja pushed herself beyond her comfort zone, embracing complex tools and workflows. She focused on cloth simulations in Houdini, exploring the full potential of vellum and learning how to optimise and import simulations into Unreal Engine for real-time use. She also trained herself to operate the technology in CoSTAR Realtime Lab studio, preparing for a unique and deeply personal final project.
Her project was a virtual production pole dancing performance video she created the environments and special effects that ran on the LED wall behind the choreography, crafting an emotional and elegant piece that ran entirely in real time. Pole dancing is one of her passions, and she served as president of Aberfly, Abertay’s pole dancing society, during her final year.
She said:
To make the project happen, I needed access to a pole but renting one was too expensive. So I organised a showcase with Aberfly to raise funds and buy a pole for the society. I even performed at the event — something that was far outside my comfort zone. But it was worth it. Without that, I wouldn’t have been able to afford to complete my project.
Maja found the support from lecturers to be encouraging and balanced — offering both technical and artistic guidance when needed. She also appreciated the advice to stay active in the industry, attend events, and maintain a professional online presence.
Now, with graduation behind her, she’s exploring opportunities in virtual production across several countries. Her goal is to work on set as a VP specialist or Unreal Engine operator, though she acknowledges the current challenges in the industry.
Her advice to future MSc students is simple but powerful:
Don’t isolate yourself. Talk to other students — everyone has something valuable to share. It’s easy to feel like you’re not good enough, but if you care enough and ask for help, you’ll learn everything in your own time. Be brave.
