Virtual Studios Boost Student Numbers at the University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland has seen a significant increase in student numbers and international interest since announcing their investment in Mo-Sys equipped virtual production studios.

The virtual studios, which were installed by Mo-Sys partner CJP Broadcast Service Solutions include an impressive 10m x 3.5m curved LED wall and incorporate the latest Mo-Sys technology. 

Ensuring students gain experience with the latest industry equipment, the LED Volume utilises Mo-Sys’ VP Pro XR LED Content Server and features Multi-camera switching, Cinematic XR Focus, Set Extensions, Mo-Sys StarTracker camera tracking which seamlessly blends the real-world foreground with the CGI virtual scene, together with Pan bar and Hand wheel controls.

“Virtual production has been the catalyst to raising the profile of the university,” said Ian McPake, programme leader for Film Production. “The new technology has increased our exposure in the UK and around the world. And teaching virtual production as part of our courses is providing students with valuable skills and knowledge, and the result is they have a much greater chance of being employable when they graduate.”

The new studios have been met with enthusiasm from students, who have taken to the new technology really well. “Higher education is a competitive market and it’s hard to stand out, especially being situated in the North East of England,” said Craig Moore, senior TV and virtual production studio technician. “Having this facility has started to turn people’s heads who otherwise wouldn’t have considered studying at the University of Sunderland.”

The University of Sunderland is one of the few universities in the UK to have this technology, which makes them front runners in embedding Virtual Production in their courses. This has led to increased interest from international students and industry, with companies also now looking towards Sunderland.

“After seeing what Sunderland has done, other universities are now thinking of investing in the same systems,” added Ian McPake. “Connections with local industry have improved and companies want to come in and use this technology. Students will be leaving Sunderland with VP knowledge and experience which is in high-demand and therefore incredibly valuable.”

The University of Sunderland is proud to be at the forefront of virtual production education. The new studios are a valuable asset to the university and wider region, and these are helping to prepare students for the jobs of the future.