Students who have successfully completed their further education courses, either a National Diploma in a computing or media discipline or related A level subjects, who wish to study at a Higher Education level with a view to entering a career in computer games technology or design. It is also suitable for mature students who have relevant computing experience who want to return to learning or change career direction with a view to working in the games or computing industry.
Whether you are starting your university level study after completing your further education or returning to learning as a mature student this course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to enter the computer games/technology industry or assist you in your application to progress onto the third year to achieve your BSc (Hons) degree in Computer Games Technology.
The computer games industry has matured to include many advanced technologies and needs graduates with strong technical skills and a flair for creative design together with sound business and interpersonal skills. The course provides students with comprehensive technical games building skills combined with a more general computer science education including programming skills, games design and development and 3D modelling and animation.
This is a two-year programme and you will study a range of computer games technology subjects:
Year 1 – Gaming Mathematics, Games Programming, Graphics and Animation (3DS Max), Games Platforms and Technologies, Games Design and Development and Professional Practice and the Workplace.
Year 2 – Sound for Games, Computer Games Production Project, Games AI, 3D Environments and Visualisation, Advanced Games Programming, Ethics and Professional Practice and an option unit of either Mobile Gaming or Rigging – Character Modelling.
The BSC (Hons) Top-Up Year covers the following:- Final Major Games Project, digital Sound Production, Computer Games Prototyping, 3D Graphics Programming, 2D Texture Manipulation (OPTION), Collaborative Working and Entrepreneurial skills.
One of the distinctive features of the programme is the work-based learning content and you will undertake a work placement during your first year and will also be involved in working for an employer on Games Production Project in your second year. Also included in the programme is the development of professional skills to provide you with workplace skills which employers value in their graduate entry staff.
The course equips graduates with a range of transferable skills and knowledge of the fundamental principles of computer games technology and media and an understanding of how to apply those skills.
At interview and in your personal statement, we are looking for you to demonstrate the following personal qualities skills, although all will be further developed throughout your learning.
Communication Skills Whatever your role in the creative media industries you need to be able to communicate well with people at all levels. Your course work could include oral presentations, formal report writing and in-depth research.
Group Work/Teamwork Most major development projects require effective teamwork. Let us know of any individual or group projects that you have been involved with.
Independent learning/study skills You will already have some of these, and your transition to higher education is supported by your personal support tutor and student support services.
Independence/Self-reliance/Initiative Tell us about your interests, work experience, extra-curricular activities, positions of responsibility etc.
Interest in the games industry You need to have a keen interest in the games industry and an understanding of the games development process.
IT Skills We assume you have no prior knowledge of programming but you are familiar with a ‘windows’ environment and are comfortable with word processing and basic spreadsheets. You will also have access to a range of IT facilities and the LRC where staffs are available to give you advice and support.
Problem Solving Are you a methodical person or are you someone who often has spontaneous ideas and thinks ‘laterally’? Problem solving in a computing context requires both skills.
You will be taught and supported by highly experienced and dedicated tutors and gain plenty of hands-on experience in our excellent laboratories and workshops.
Assessments will be either by assignment, examination or presentations. You will be required to undertake projects both as a member of working groups and as an individual.
All such activities are supported by training in the application and use of computers. A feature of the course is the use of in-course assessment where each module is assessed by the course teaching team using assignments, case studies, presentations and examinations. There is also an assessed compulsory period of work experience in the first year.
As a graduate of this course you will be suitably equipped with a range of transferable computing skills and be able to work in an environment where adaptability and the ability to manage change are crucial. The course can lead to a range of freelance and employed roles in the burgeoning IT industry
After successful completion of this course you will have an opportunity to apply to the University of Plymouth for a final year of one of the following courses:
Relevant National Diploma (PPP) or A2/AS Levels (minimum 120 points, including 80 points at A2 level) or Advanced Diploma or Access Certificate.
We also require students to have GCSE English Language at grade C (or equivalent).
Students whose first language is not English will be required to attain IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Level 6 with a score of 5 or more in the writing test.
Note: Mature students without formal entry requirements are welcome to apply.
Interviews last approximately 25 minutes. Normally there are two interviewers. This is a valuable opportunity for you to show and discuss your application and demonstrate your personal skills.
Full-time Fees: £7,000 per year (for 2012/13 start) Part-time Fees: £tbc (for 2012/13 start) assumes three years part-time study to complete
For further guidance please contact the Careers team on 01823 366 331 or email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk