PROGRAMME
INFORMATION
The Immersive Design Academy (formerly NextGen Showcase) is an accessible training programme in themed attraction design which bridges the gap between education and job placement, providing the industry with confident candidates that are better prepared for the real world of work.
Tell me more…
Our 11 month-long educational programme simulates a creative studio environment, whereby ~90 students work virtually in six multidisciplinary international teams to create a themed attraction in response to a client brief.
Don’t just take our word for it - hear all about it from IDA Alum, coaster bot!
For subtitles, please view this video on YouTube.
Who can join?
To join, you must be 18 or older, and have a genuine interest in joining the themed entertainment industry as a professional career.
This program is not for established themed entertainment professionals.
Content will be delivered in English only, so you must have a good understanding of English.
You will be asked to provide a CV / Resume & Cover Letter to apply, and you must be willing to commit around 8-10hrs per week to the project. It is possible to take part alongside work or studies, but you must be able to manage your time effectively.
Is it expensive?
In short: No!
If accepted onto the program, there is a nominal ‘enrolment fee’ of 50 EUR, payable online.
This is the only cost to take part in the virtual aspect of the course.In-person events (such as behind-the-scenes tours) are at an additional cost of ~20-40 EUR per event (excluding travel). Limited travel scholarships will be available.
We are a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers, so all costs go directly towards running the programme.
CURRICULUM
BLUE SKY
How to interpret a client brief and market study
How a charette works
How to work collaboratively
Create your team’s big ideas.
The Client Panel will select their favourite concept to progress.
CONCEPT DESIGN
Story development
Develop creative documentation
Ride selection
Spatial planning
Accessible, Inclusive & Sustainable development
Develop the selected concept into a complete Concept Package for presentation.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
Explore technical considerations to bring the story to life
Understand the facility integration aspects
Develop an architectural package
Understand the complexity of materials selection given local regulations & safety
Develop the supporting details for how to make the creative concept a reality.
FINAL SHOWCASE
Showcase your final design package at IAAPA Expo (Orlando), the world’s largest attractions industry conference!
Additionally, our Livestream Showcase will give your work even more exposure, receiving thousands of views each year.
INCLUDED IN
THE PROGRAMME
IN PERSON EVENTS
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how top theme parks, attractions, and immersive installations are created worldwide.
MENTORS
Each team is supported throughout by two industry professionals.
DISCORD
Connect with fellow participants on our online platform.
RESOURCES
Get access to real industry documentation and insight into working practices.
WEEKLY EDUCATION SESSIONS
Join industry experts every Monday for an online masterclass.
MUCH MORE
This is just the beginning! We’re always improving the programme…
STUDENT
TESTIMONIALS
“The Immersive Design Academy not only gave me the practical knowledge and insight I wanted for the themed entertainment industry, but also valuable connections and lifelong friendships that I can always lean on!”
“The Immersive Design Academy is the most valuable program for anyone aspiring to enter the Themed Entertainment Industry. I wouldn’t be in my current role without it.”
“The IDA was such an impactful experience not only for my career, but also for my perspective on working in the themed entertainment industry. What I treasure most from the program were the experiences and portfolio work of course, but even more the connections and friendships I made with amazing, talented, creative people from all over the world!”
SCHEDULE
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ANY QUESTIONS?
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