Computing

Computer games is one of the most exciting creative industries and is currently thriving in the UK and worldwide. Continually evolving, it offers superb opportunities for those with a passion for gaming who are looking for a career in a cutting-edge, global industry. To be successful in this industry, you need to be technical and creative, as well as good at maths. If you love computer games and aspire to work in the games industry, this is a great course to get you on your way.

For entry to this course you’ll need:

• a minimum of 1 Higher, but preferably two
• Maths at SCQF Level 6, although we’ll consider a relevant group of NQ Units at SCQF Level 6
• an interview with us

If you don’t have formal qualifications, but have previous employment, practical or life experience, then we’ll also consider you for a place, so please call us for a chat.

This course will introduce you to a range of topics relating to computer games, with an emphasis on programming and teamwork.

You’ll begin by looking at game design and produce a professional proposal for a games concept to a client.

You’ll then create a game treatment via a game design document for future development of the game design.

On the creative side

You’ll develop skills in traditional 2D Animation and create your own 2D digital animation sequence.

You’ll also explore scripting and develop skills in designing and developing interactive multimedia applications.

You’ll look at 3D Level editing.

You’ll design a themed environment and develop a basic level using a chosen 3D level editor software package.

On the technical side

You’ll explore structured programming for games and learn about the concepts and techniques involved.

You’ll implement a solution for a design, and learn to test and debug a program.

You’ll investigate the technology behind game consoles and gaming computers, both internal system components and external devices. Maths is an important aspect of gaming and you’ll learn to apply relevant maths techniques for gaming, namely matrices and calculus.

You’ll also look at the importance of project planning and what’s involved in successful project management, including the problems project managers can face. You’ll practice working within a project team and how to negotiate goals, roles and responsibilities.

When you successfully complete this course, you’ll have the choice of:

• moving onto HND Computer Games Development
• seeking to start your career with an entry level role in the software industry, such as a tester, level designer or intern.

Gain hands-on experience in game design, animation, programming, and more. This course equips you with skills highly sought after in the gaming industry including problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork.

Throughout the course you will meet with guest speakers from universities, various companies and third sector organisations as well as ex-students who have studied the course and gone on to further study. There are also opportunities to work on projects alongside a number of companies such as CyberFirst, iDance, Barclays Bank, East, North, and South Ayrshire Councils, and many more.

BSc (Hons) Games Development at GCU and UWS, BSc (Hons) 3D Animation and Visualisation with pathways for games and VFX at GCU and many more.