Level 3 Extended Diploma in Computer Games Design Ref:58370

What you will study

The course is currently based in our dedicated computer games studios using industry standard software such as 3ds Max, Photoshop, Flash, Unreal Development Kit and Dreamweaver. You don’t need prior experience as you will learn all the software by starting with the basics.

You will study practical, artistic and theory units which could include:-
* 3D Modelling, 3D Animation & 3D Environments
* Computer Game Engines
* Digital Graphics for Computer Games
* Computer Game Story Development
* Computer Game Design
* 2D Animation Production
* Web Authoring
* Drawing Concept Art for Computer Games

Good drawing ability is not essential, but creativity plays a big part in all the stages of designing computer games. You must be able to develop creative ideas on paper and be willing to work on your drawing skills using traditional media. Throughout the course you will develop a portfolio of hand drawn and digital work needed for entry into Higher Education or employment.



Your Course Structure

This is a creative design course which is mostly practical, with some artistic, research and theoretical content. This may also include day visits and an international residential trip. You will meet regularly with a Personal Tutor who will support your studies throughout the course and in Year 2 you will receive guidance on applying to Higher Education or employment.

How you will learn

You will be taught through workshop-based sessions that encourage 'learning by doing' using industry standard software and techniques.

By the end of the course you could have produced 2D games, 3D game levels, game design documents, concept art, web sites, web animations, digital images and animated 3D models. You will also learn about the games industry, game story development and games platforms, as well as being visited by a number of guest speakers from industry and Higher Education.

Study visits are important elements of this course. In previous years the international trips have been to Gamescom in Cologne, Germany, and a four day residential to Disneyland Resort Paris. Day trips have included EuroGamer Expo in London, Royal Armouries in Leeds, and the National Media Museum in Bradford. Students may also undertake Higher Education visits, including the University of Huddersfield.

Entry Requirements

Entry onto the course can be gained with five GCSEs at grades A* - C including English Language and Maths. Alternatively, a Merit overall on BTEC Level 2 Diploma (or equivalent), along with a Level 2 English Language and Maths qualification, would be acceptable.

A satisfactory reference from your current/previous educational establishment will also be required and all applicants will be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course.

If you do not have the necessary entry requirements then you should apply for the Level 2 Diploma in Computer Games Design, Level 2 Diploma in Media, Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design, or the Level 2 Diploma for ICT Practitioners.

Attendance

The course runs for two years full-time, and you must be available to attend college Monday to Friday for approximately 18 hours per week, plus a similar amount of time for private study. A timetable stating the days and times that you are required to attend will be given to you at the start of the course in September. Extra help with your English or Maths can be arranged.

From September 2012 the course will run at our City Centre Campus in Wakefield.

How you will be assessed

You will be assessed through assignments and practical project work that count towards your final grade. Your tutor will provide regular feedback and maintain a record of assessment. All student work may be externally verified.