Game Development Level 5 Higher National Diploma

Overview

The Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Game Development is a 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 game art, animation, concept development, and game engines.

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.

Entry Requirements

The over-riding consideration in admitting applicants to the course, is evidence that the learner or apprentice 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 the selection of all courses.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.

• Applicants should normally have obtained 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.

The College’s Admissions Policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code May 2023. 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.

The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements#eng. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

The entrance criteria above may change subject to awarding body regulations. The College reserves the right to enhance the entrance requirements where demand exceeds the number of available places.

In addition, where places remain available the College reserves the right to offer places to candidates with a profile less than that listed above.

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) Procedure.

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:

• Concept Art for Computer Games

• 3D Modelling

• Contextual Studies

• Game Design

• Animation

• Game Development

• Environment & Level Design

How Will I Be Assessed?

Assessment will be a combination of assignments, discussion forums, case studies, peer review and projects which may include production of an artefact/portfolio.

Further Study

At the end of the two year course, students will have developed the skills and qualifications necessary to begin a career within the games sector or other similar creative or technical industries. Some may even wish to work on a freelance basis.

Alternatively, successful students can choose to continue their studies with a a degree level qualification at relevant universities.

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