The Level 3 Computer Games Design course at Wakefield College provides the knowledge, understanding and technical skills for learners wishing to enter upon a career in Computer Games Design or Development, Animation, Digital Graphics, Web Design or Special Effects Production. The course combines the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production (Games Development) with Life Drawing, the Level 3 Extended Project Qualification and an induction qualification, to provide an ideal course for those with an interest in games or new media design. The course is the equivalent of studying for 3.5 A levels.
Aim of the Course
The aim of the course is to provide you with a solid foundation in games and new media software and technology. The course is structured to encourage the development of the skills required by the computer games and new media industries. This is achieved through offering a range of industry standard software on high quality computer hardware. As this is a design course, you will also develop your drawing skills and learn to visually communicate your ideas. Successful completion of the Level 3 Computer Games Design course, along with an appropriate grade and portfolio, will provide access to a wide range of University courses.
How will I learn?
You will be taught through workshop-based sessions that encourage hands on experience of industry standard software and techniques. You will use the latest software and hardware to produce 2d games, 3d game levels, game design documents, concept art, web sites, flash animations, posters, game packaging, digital images, digital sound, and animated 3D models and environments. You will also learn about the games industry, game story development, and games platforms.
How long does the course last?
This is a full time two-year course.
What are the entry requirements?
You will need 5 GCSEs at grades A - C, including English, and preferably Maths, or a Merit on BTEC Level 2 Diploma along with a Level 2 English qualification. All applicants will be interviewed for this course. Those students who do not have the entry requirements should apply for the BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Computer Games Design, BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Media, BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Art & Design, or the BTEC Level 2 Diploma for ICT Practitioners.
Resources
You will work in one of the three specialist Games Design studios. Each studio has 3DS Max 2012, Mudbox, Maya, Photoshop CS5.5, Flash CS5.5, Dreamweaver CS5.5, Audacity, UDK, Gamemaker 8, and Microsoft Office.
Trips and visits?
Each year we plan an international trip. This year we have a trip to Disneyland Resort Paris, EuroGamer Expo and Gamescom in Cologne, Germany. We will also visit Royal Armouries, Leeds, and the National Media Museum, Bradford. Students will also undertake University visits, including Huddersfield University.
Parents and Carers
A digital version of the Parent & Carers' Handbook can be downloaded here.
Note:
This site is an independent site that does not reflect any of the views or opinions of Wakefield College. The site is the sole responsibility of Mike Jaques and is merely intended as a source of information for prospective and existing Computer Games Design students.