Computer Games Design Diploma Level 3

This qualification offers learners the opportunity to develop their technical computer games design skills through a process of selfevaluation, practice and review. In addition to the specialist computer games design content available in this qualification, learners develop the transferable and higher-order skills that are highly regarded by higher education and employers, for example communication, project management and problem solving.

This course provides you with the opportunity to creatively develop conceptual ideas for computer games and to work with industry standard design and production applications. You will learn how to master industry standard software such as: 3D Studio Max, Unreal Engine 4, World Machine, Mudbox, Z Brush, Qiuixel Suiet, Crazy Bump, Visual Studio, GameMaker Studio, Skyrim Creation kit and visual illustration applications such as Photoshop and Sketchbook. Contextual research and hands on technical skills enable you to develop both 2D and 3D game outcomes. You will be challenged to think and work creatively, through a variety of challenging and exciting modules.

Some of the subjects within the course may include,
• Create and develop games/level design documents
• Digital character sculpting using Mudbox, Z Brush
• 2D game creation using Game Maker
• 3D environment development using Unreal Engine 4
• 3D character realisation, development and animation using Mudbox and 3D Studio Max
• Game engine modification
• Level design
• 2D and 3D animation
• Character and environmental design and development
• Computer game story development
• Educational visits will form an integral part of the curriculum, vital to broadening experience of design and culture
• Art history / contextual studies
• Educational visits will form an integral part of the curriculum, vital to broadening experience of design and culture
• Dedicated sessions to investigate and define HE pathways and progressions during year 2

Continuous assessment of coursework in the first and second years across a range of mandatory and professional specialist units. Assessments will be project based and marked by specialist course tutors.

Year 2 culminates in a final exhibition, ArtsFest, which is open to the public

There are a number of essential items needed for this course. A tailored starter pack is available to purchase from the college (this will contain essential equipment). Letters are issued at enrolment which include details of content and costs.

There is an expectation that learners take part in educational visits tailored to their programme of study. The costs for these vary and can be compulsory.

BTEC Level 3 Diploma / Extended Diploma in Computer Games Design

Foundation in Art and Design or HNC/D course within the Creative Industries sector at Dudley College of Technology.

HND, BSc (Hon), BA (Hons) in related subject areas such as software development, computer games design and production, computer games conceptual development, art and design, digital illustration, graphic design, etc. Alternatively, employment relating to creative or computer games and industries.

4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English language), one of which should be in an art or design-related subject OR First Diploma in Art & Design / First Diploma Creative Digital Media or equivalent. You will need to attend an interview and bring with you a reference or school report, sketchbooks and a portfolio of your art and design work. Due to the popularity of this course please apply early to avoid disappointment.