Game Design and Development - Two-year Accelerated Degree

UCAS code: GDG1

Here's what University Centre Farnborough says about its Game Design and Development - Two-year Accelerated Degree course.

Creativity and technology come together in this two-year accelerated degree, introducing you to the exciting and expanding gaming industry. This course starts each September and is awarded by the University of Surrey. This course:

• Is a two-year accelerated degree, meaning you can save a year of tuition fees and graduate sooner • Can provide a route into careers related to animation, game design, game development, and software engineering • Explores game design and development from both a creative and technical perspective • Utilises a range of technologies, including virtual reality goggles and modern software

Gaming has become more than a leisure activity in today’s society. With advancements in technology, artificial intelligence and even competitive gaming, it is no surprise that the industry is a fast-growing and popular career choice.

At Farnborough, you can look forward to learning in our dedicated IT suites. You will use modern software and dynamic equipment, including our Oculus Quest 2 headsets.

Within this degree you will explore the core principles of game design and development, looking at the process of taking an idea from conception to completion. You will learn how to create a concise and meaningful journey for players, exploring a wide understanding of design principles, player psychology, storytelling and more. You will also discover the creative and technical processes involved in creating games (including VR and AR games),3D modelling, animation and high-quality software coding.

This new degree is being designed to launch in September 2020 and is subject to change and validation.

WHO IS THE PROGRAMME FOR? This degree is suitable for those with a creative mindset, who are passionate about working within the gaming industry. You might currently be studying a Level 3, A Level, or Access to Higher Education course, be returning to education after a break, or wish to transfer from another higher education institution.

WHAT WILL I STUDY? You will gain experience creating games using contemporary software engines, such as Unity. You will learn about the range of processes involved, including visual, sound and script design, and relevant programming languages such as C#. Through this you will also discover how to produce innovative and creative experiences, as well as the importance of working closely with developers, designers and artists to create a quality product to schedule.

Level 4 • Environmental 3D Modelling • Introduction to Game Design • Introduction to Coding • Academic Skills • 2D Game Art and UI • Narrative Design • Intermediate Coding • Games in Society

Level 5 • 3D Character Modelling and Animation • Level Design • Advanced Coding • Professional Development and Work Placement • Coding for Virtual Reality • Branching Narratives • Sound Design for Games • Emergent Technologies

Level 6 • Final Major Project Part 1: Pre-Production • Augmented Reality • The Game Industry • Final Major Project Part 2: Production

You will normally be assessed throughout your course to test your understanding within each module. This will be done through a combination of written assignments, presentations, formal examinations, project proposals, and a dissertation.

HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT? You will be taught using a variety of techniques, many which take advantage of technology. This includes lecture-based presentations, practical sessions, individual and group project work, and individual presentations.