Game Development
The Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Game Development is an intensive and comprehensive programme designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to pursue a successful career in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of game development. This two-year programme is specifically tailored to provide students with a solid foundation in game design, programming, graphics, and project management.
| Award Name | BTEC Higher National Diploma at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Pearson |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| BTEC Higher National Diploma at UK Level 5 | Pearson |
Duration
2 years full-time.
Entry Requirements
The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to this course, is evidence that the learner is likely to be able to complete the course satisfactorily.
Attendance at Individual or Group Pre-Entry Advice Sessions (IPEAS and GPEAS) may be required. These interviews may take place either on campus, via telephone or video call (Microsoft teams) and will play an important role in place allocation.
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July 2024.
- Applicants must have attained a minimum of 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A Levels, National Awards, Access or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications.
- Applicants must have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language. For entry to this programme, applicants should have attained a C grade in GCSE English language and a C grade in GCSE Maths (or equivalent).
- Applicants who do not meet the criteria outlined above but have evidence of substantial knowledge or relevant industrial experience and skills, which has not been formally assessed, should refer to the College’s Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) Policy.
Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/ A-Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.
Careers / Further progression
Careers
Students achieving this qualification will be able to seek a number of exciting career opportunities in the gaming industry. Roles may include:
Game Designer
Game Programmer
Games Animator
3D Artist/Modeler
Game UI/UX Designer
Further Study
At the end of the two year course you will have developed the skills and qualifications necessary to begin a career within the games sector or other similar, creative or technical industries. You may even want to be a freelancer. Alternatively, successful students can choose to continue their studies with a a degree level qualification at relevant universities.
Further information
Start Date: 09/09/2024.
Newry Campus
£2,900 per year.
Other Fees
Students also have the opportunity to attend various trips and events as opportunities arise throughout the duration of the course. While these are not mandatory for success, they complement course content and should cost no more than £20– £30 per year.
How To Apply
All full-time courses starting in the current academic year are open for applications. Please see "Application Weblink" to begin your application.
Overview
The Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Game Development is an intensive and comprehensive programme designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to pursue a successful career in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of game development. This two-year programme is specifically tailored to provide students with a solid foundation in game design, programming, graphics, and project management.
Throughout the course, students will explore the fundamental principles of game development, gaining a deep understanding of game mechanics, gameplay systems, and player engagement. They will also learn the intricacies of game design, including narrative development, character creation, level design, and game balancing. Students will have the opportunity to unleash their creativity and develop innovative game concepts that resonate with diverse audiences.
In order to foster a well-rounded skill set, the curriculum also covers essential areas of game development, such as computer graphics, artificial intelligence, audio design, and user interface development.
Collaboration and project management skills are vital in the game development industry, and this programme places a strong emphasis on building these competencies. Students will work on team-based projects, simulating real-world development scenarios, and learn how to effectively communicate, collaborate, and manage the entire game development lifecycle. They will also develop critical problem-solving and analytical skills, enabling them to identify and resolve issues that may arise during the development process.
What Will I Study?
The HND in Game Development uses modules to define the overall structure of the qualification. There are two modules and each includes one or more assessment units, which provide the definition of learning outcomes and essential content for delivery.
Module A (Level 4)
Concept & Development
Creative Project
Module B (Level 5)
Personal Professional Development
Professional Project
Built into these modules students will study:
Games Development Practices
3D Modelling
Games in Context
Game Design
Principles of Animation
Advanced Game Development
Advanced 3D Modelling
Environment & Level Design
There will be a combination of assignments, discussion forums, case studies, peer review and projects which may include production of an artefact/portfolio.
Contacts
FacultyCDAC@src.ac.uk
028 3025 9686