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Game Development HNC (Full time)

Tresham College Games Design FE

Overview

Game Development HNC (Full time)

The game industry is now a larger contributor to the global economy than the film industry. From casual mobile games produced by individual developers, to major AAA titles produced by large studios, gaming is one of the most popular forms of entertainment for people of all ages.

Working in the games industry requires a range of knowledge and skills that span design, programming, marketing and business. Understanding the social trends that drive interest in different forms of gaming is essential to provide a business rationale for game development and the starting point for producing the concept, art and documentation that will convince others to support a game idea.

Through this course, students will develop the underlying knowledge and skills that will enable them to begin their journey in the games industry. Combining research, design and programming, students will explore both the knowledge, design and technical skills required to progress within the growing games sector.

The Level 4 modules lay the foundation of learning by providing a broad introduction to games and different game design and development functions. This develops and strengthens core skills while preparing students for specialist subjects at Level 5 or to enter employment with the qualities necessary for job roles that require some personal responsibility.

Students will gain a wide range of games development knowledge linked to practical skills gained through research, independent study, directed study and workplace scenarios. Students are involved in vocational activities that help them to develop behaviours (the attitudes and approaches required for a competence) and transferable skills. Transferable skills are those such as communication, teamwork, research and analysis, which are highly valued in higher education and in the workplace.

By the end of Level 4, students will have sound knowledge of the basic concepts of game development. They will be competent in a range of subject-specific skills as well as in general skills and qualities relevant to key areas of game development.

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Important information

No. of contact hours

12 hours per week

Expected self-study

24 hours per week

Regulatory body

Pearson

UCAS code

GDCB

Course information

Entry requirements

32-48 UCAS points and GCSE Grade 4 maths and English Language.

A relevant qualification at level 3.

Course content

You will study:

Core modules

  • A1: Concept & Development
  • A2: Creative Project

Module A: Process & Practice made of 2 units, A1 and A2

A1: Concept & Development:

  •  A1.1 Explore the history, theories and developments of Game Design. (Where not applicable, please list all areas of study)
  • A1.2 Explore and develop ideas, based on an iterative approach to problem solving in creative practice.
  • A1.3 Explore technical knowledge and skills necessary to support creative practice.
  • A1.4 Explore professional knowledge, behaviours and practices within the sector.
  • A1.5 Explore techniques, media and formats to communicate ideas and concepts for diverse audiences.

A2: Creative Project:

  • A2.1 Apply relevant contextual knowledge to inform a creative project.
  • A2.2 Analyse a given brief to develop creative solutions, applying an iterative development process.
  • A2.3 Apply technical knowledge and skill in the production of a project outcome.
  • A2.4 Demonstrate professional knowledge, behaviours and practices in response to a given brief.
  • A2.5 Present the development process and outcomes of a creative project for a specified audience.
Assessment methods

Formative and Summative portfolios, games, presentations, reports.

The qualification

Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Games Design.

Further study and career options

Course progression:

Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND in Games Design.

Career progression:

Roles in:

  • Production (director, assistant director, creative director, artist, animator, matte painter, editor)
  • Creative (designer, artist, concept artist, layout artist, creative director, artist, designer, script writer)
  • Management (producer, project manager, publisher, co-ordinator, producer, project manager)
  • Technical (technical artist, VFX supervisor, compositor) and/or
  • Support (, tester, community manager, paint prep, runner, tester, community manager, researcher, health and safety).
Any questions?

If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat or email us at info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk

Available Courses
Central Bedfordshire College The Store
Starts: 22/09/2025
Type: HE
Length: 1 year
Day(s):
Time(s):
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Fees: £6,000.00
Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the Website is correct, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Additional Learning Support

If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it. Email: ALSteam@bedford.ac.uk or call us on 01234 291333.

Financial Support

For information regarding financial support, please visit the Financial Support section to see the support you may be entitled to apply for.

Accessibility

We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.

Any questions?

If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk or call us on 0345 658 8990.