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Course Description
Succeeding in the field of Games Technology involves a combination of technical aptitude and commercial and creative know-how. That’s exactly what our degree programmes are intended to equip you with, meaning that you’ll stand every chance of landing your dream job once you graduate.
This programme incorporates our innovative use of work-based learning, to help you gain hands-on experience in professional environments during your studies. First years undertake a work placement with an employer in the games technology industry, while the second year includes a live games production project. In the past, students have worked on developing games for partners such as the NHS, Mole Valley Farmers, British Red Cross and Somerset Wildlife.
The first year covers a range of flexible and transferable skills including:
- Programming Fundamentals
- Games Mathematics
- 3D Modelling and Animation Fundamentals
- Games Platforms and Technologies
- Games Design and Development
- Professional Practice and the Workplace
The second year covers:
- Sound for Games
- Games Production Project
- Games AI
- Advanced 3D Animation
- Advanced Games Programming
- Rigging: Character Modelling - optional module
- Introduction to Mobile Programming - optional module
For more information about regulations and policies relevant to studying with the Open University please visit our Wider Information Set page.
DID YOU KNOW?
There were 16,246 programmers and software development professionals in the South West last year – this is expected to increase by 7% over the next five years resulting in over 1,000 new jobs. -
Teaching and Assessment
You will be taught and supported by highly experienced and dedicated lecturers whilst gaining both theoretical and practical experience by utilising our dedicated games technology rooms, software and equipment which continues to grow with industry trends.
A feature of the course is the use of in-course assessment while other modules are assessed by the course teaching team using assignments, case studies and presentations. There is also an assessed compulsory period of work experience as part of the programme, students will take part in an assessed work placement; this exciting opportunity allows students to pursue industry experience in a company or recent professional area of their choice with the support of their supervisors.
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Progression Opportunities
The Foundation Degree is a perfect platform for progression onto the BSc (Hons) top-up degree. With a set of highly sought-after skills and competencies, and practical work experience in the games technology industry, your chances of securing employment after graduation are high.
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Career Progression
With a set of highly sought-after skills and competencies, and practical work experience in the games technology industry, your chances of securing employment after graduation are high. Our graduates have gone on to roles as technical artists or games programmers, as well as a wide spectrum of other jobs in the creative media sector, such as mobile device programmers, graphic designers and digital artists.
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Entry Requirements
Applicants require 64 UCAS points at AS/A2 Level (minimum 32 points at A2 Level) or equivalent Edexcel qualification (Extended Diploma – MPP/Diploma - MM), or Pre-degree Access Diploma. Students also require 4 GCSEs at grade A*-C (new grading system 9-4) including English and Maths or equivalent Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy.
Applicants with English as their second language must have minimum IELTS Level 6 or equivalent.
The nature of study at this level requires GCSE grade A*-C (new grade system 9-4) in English and Maths or equivalent qualification. Under exceptional circumstances, a conditional offer may be made to a prospective learner to include an expectation of working towards GCSE Maths grade C or Level 2 Numeracy alongside completing the degree programme. Mature students who do not meet these formal entry requirements are welcome to apply, if they can evidence their commitment to the subject through previous experience.
Awarding Body: The Open University.