Summary

The computer games industry is one of the largest in the global creative sector, with exceptional job opportunities, and Britain is a market leader in this field. Whether you want to get into the games industry or a computer-generated arts career, this UAL Level 3 qualification is for you. The computer games industry employs people with skills in computer-based animation and art and special effects, and this course will give you a grounding in the core skills to take you forward with your chosen profession. Instead of just buying games, start making a career in something that you enjoy doing!

The end-of-course project is designed to simulate the pressures and excitement of working as a professional games designer. We aim to simulate the atmosphere and expectations that a learner will find when they leave us and find employment in the working world.

You will learn a combination of multimedia skills, including:

Year 1:

• Concept and digital art
• 3D modelling and animation
• Audio sourcing and utilisation
• The computer games industry
• Contextual studies
• Fundamentals of programming

Year 2:

• 3D environments
• 3D games design and production
• UI design
• Programming for computer games
• Contextual studies
• Narrative for computer games
• Audio production editing
• Marketing and advertising
• Entering industry or HE

This Level 3 course is based at our Filton campus, located in South Gloucestershire which is easily accessible from the city of Bristol by train (Bristol Parkway / Bristol Abbey Wood) and bus. As well as our Stroud campus in the centre of Gloucestershire, surrounded by the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The campus is a short walk from Stroud train station and easily accessible by bus.

How will I know how I am doing?

Learners will receive feedback on all their work via our online virtual learning environment and through one-to-one tutorials. They will also have tangible experience of completing computer games, which will then be played at the end-of-year show.

What do I need to join?

Five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, or a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit grade or above. As this is a creative course, we would also like to see a portfolio of creative work at interview.

Maths & English

A key requirement for obtaining many jobs is to achieve a good standard of English and maths. Therefore learners that do not yet have a GCSE grade 4 (C) will be enrolled on either GCSE or Functional Skills programmes alongside their main course.

Employability

Learners will develop skills in communication, presentation and writing through pitching and presenting work, as well as the key production skills for making video games. They will produce a portfolio throughout the course and are encouraged to present it to professional games designers for feedback at industry exhibitions.

Work Experience

The end-of-course project is designed to simulate the pressures and excitement of working as a professional games designer. We aim to simulate as closely as possible the atmosphere and expectations that a learner will find when they leave us and find employment in the working world.

What can I do next?

For learners who excel, self-employment as a developer is an option. More commonly, learners go on to foundation degree courses, Level 4 HBD programmes or university courses in subjects such as games design, programming, graphic design, visual effects, animation, art, etc.

What are my career options?

Learners normally wish to pursue careers in games design after taking this programme, typically by entering into a role suited to one of their core skills. In addition, the course is a good grounding for many multimedia, art and IT-based careers, including programming, illustration, graphic design, animation, concept art, audio production, etc.