About this Course
Our HNC in Game Development programme has been specially designed for students who wish to pursue a career within the computer games industry. Whether you are returning to education, or progressing from level 3 or A – level study, this course will ensure that you develop your skills and knowledge to allow you to progress to the next stage of your career.

Key Units
A1 Concept & Development - 340 credits
A2 Creative Project - 140 Credits

Entry Requirements
48 Ucas points via BTEC/ UAL/ OCR EXTENDED DIPLOMA, A LEVELS.
18+ Foundation Degree.
19+ Access to HE Diploma in a creative subject.

Applications from mature students, who do not have the UCAS entry points, but who have the appropriate industry or freelance experience and employer references are also welcome to apply (place offered at our discretion).

All applicants are required to attend an interview and will be expected to present a portfolio of creative work.

Assessment
PresentationsIdea developmentResearch led projectsLive assignment briefsWork experienceEssaysPortfolio of work
Where does this Lead
We aim to provide students with the experience, knowledge and confidence to function in their specialist pathway. For next steps we do offer a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Game Development which is a continuation of the work begun on HNC. Completing this can further lead progression on to our level 6 BA Hons (Top-up) Creative Practice Game Design course which is validated by Sheffield Hallam University.

This HNC/D are designed to ensure that by the end of year two, students have the skill, knowledge and confidence to enter the workforce either as a member of salaried staff, or as a freelance professional.

Future Opportunities
A Master's degree in the relevant subject or into employment in the games Development industry or associated industries.

Tell Me More
Following the core elements of game design, you will explore essential areas like concept art, illustration, storyboarding, level design, digital sculpting, and 3D modelling. Build your practical expertise in texturing, lighting, rigging, and animation as you transform your ideas into fully realised projects.

Get an insider’s view of the games industry through immersive hands-on demonstrations, in-depth research, and theory-based exploration. You'll draw inspiration from diverse sources and sharpen your skills through an exciting mix of teaching methods—whether it’s engaging lectures, collaborative team sessions, or expert-led tutorials. This is more than a course—it’s your gateway to shaping the future of the industry!

We have dedicated pastoral tutors who can guide and support you through the academic expectations of the programme, and also to help and advise you with any issues.

Taught by our highly experienced, industry expert tutors and lecturers, you will utilise the industry standard facilities we have at our Hillsborough Campus, which includes; State of the art dual monitor Computers and Wacom tablets and associated industry standard software.

Our smaller cohorts ensure that you receive significant and essential one-to-one time with your tutors. This enables you to produce a high level of academic work, be creative and gain independence across this essential year of study. Alongside studio and classroom lectures, workshops, seminars and critique sessions, there will be opportunities for external workshops, industry visits, visiting lecturers and guest speakers from across the creative industries; which ensures essential interactions with industry each semester.

Course fees for 2025/26 are £7950 per year.

Extra Costs
Trips and visits may incur additional costs, which will be relayed to students as required and are not compulsory.