Computer Games Development BTEC

Computer Games Development (BTEC)

COMPUTER GAMES DEVELOPMENT

BTEC National Award

Campus: Cheadle and Marple

(02.12.08)

Course outline

A two year course which is the equivalent to a single A level. The course looks at a variety of the skills used in the computer games workplace. This course is mainly about game design and not about game production.

Many companies are developing games for educational reasons and to encourage visitors to their websites. These companies are looking for people who have the ability to develop good games that satisfy their users whilst being available for different platforms eg mobile phones, websites.

Year one

Areas covered include research techniques used in the Games world, game design, and 2D and 3D game production using games engines.

Year two

During this year you will study the pre-production processes that are carried out before a game is launched as well as developing a game segment using an object oriented approach.

During this year you will study the games industry in general to allow you to make an informed choice on an appropriate direction for your future career.

Special entry requirements

You should have basic IT skills including the ability to search the World Wide Web. The IT skills associated with the course will be developed, as they are required. You will need to have the necessary creative skills to visualise the final product before production starts.

You will need to be self-motivated and well organised. Research and planning skills will be essential.

How you will learn

A significant part of your learning will be carried out on the college network of computers using a virtual learning environment (VLE).

This means you will always have help available and be able to access the learning materials outside lessons.

How you will be assessed

All of your assessment will involve coursework that will involve you in working on your own outside lesson times. Having acquired the necessary skills you will be required to apply them in the development of solutions to a variety of assignments.

Other complementary subjects

Although many students will combine this with Art or Photography courses, other possibilities include Communication Studies, Business Studies and Psychology.

What you can do after this course

Several Universities have Computer Games courses that allow the students to develop the necessary software skills to produce complex games.

Job opportunities are extensive, as are the opportunities for setting up your own business.

What the students say

I like the fact that I get feedback that tells me how to get better with every piece of work

Its good being able to re-do a piece of work to make sure its at the standard I require to get my grades for university

The work experience gave me a chance to do the job in the real world I know this is what I want to do now

Other useful information

This course is designed for the creative person who wants to be at the cutting edge of the media world.