The UK video games industry is booming, and it is an increasingly popular career choice for young people who want to get involved in the technical and creative development of games.
Games Development will teach the entry fundamental basics of how to make video games. If you enjoy playing video games and want to learn how they are created, along with the skills required to join the video games industry, then Games Development is for you. Our courses offer lectures on digital art software, participation in live event-based coding, experience of 2D and 3D animation, as well as lessons on game engines and understanding level design. Whether you’re an artist who wants to develop your skillset in a digital format or you want to learn the basics of coding through event-based code, Games Development is here to help you achieve your goals.
Students on the UAL Games Development Level 3 study programme at Banbury and Bicester College will learn a mixture of work skills in the entertainment technology industry as well as specific craft-based learning, such as the creation of animations and websites. The course provides in-depth knowledge, skills and understanding in the key concepts and practical skills required to progress onto Level 4 courses in games development or programmes of a similar level, and/or work successfully in the interactive entertainment industry.
Upon successful completion of the programme, the majority of students progress to courses in higher education at either degree or HND level – with many specialising in a particular field.
Future job opportunities from the Games Development career pathway include Games Programmer, Designer, Coder, Producer, Animator, Audio Engineer, Tester, IT Technical Support, and many more!
What you'll learn
You will be taught by industry specialist with a combined experience of over 30 years in the games industry. You will work on a series of individual and group assignments which cover subjects such as:
Core units:
- Pre-production Techniques for the Creative Media Industries
- Communication Skills for Creative Media Production
- Research Techniques for the Creative Media Industries
- Creative Media Production Management Project
Optional units which may include:
- Understanding the Computer Games Industry
- 2D Animation Production
- Marketing and Public Relations
- Sound in Interactive Media
- Computer Games Engines
- 3D Modelling
- Flash for Computer Games
How you'll learn and be assessed
The Games Development Level 3 Extended Diploma provides in-depth knowledge, skills and understanding in the key concepts and practical skills.
Individual learning targets are set each term and you receive regular feedback on your progress in meeting these targets. Formal assessment is through assignments, projects, presentations and practical assessments, which are set at regular intervals throughout the course.
This programme has strong links to industry, reflected through guest speakers and outside clients. You have full access to our new media centre, which consists of a television studio, digital, video and sound editing equipment, a radio studio and computing facilities. You work with specialist tutors on live practical projects.
Additional qualifications in areas such as English, Maths or ICT are assessed by an external exam.
Entry requirements
You need to have 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English and maths, with a keen interest and evidence in the subject (example of work).
