Computing

Computer games is one of the most exciting creative industries and is currently thriving in the UK and worldwide. Continually evolving, it offers superb opportunities for those with a passion for gaming who are looking for a career in a cutting-edge, global industry. To be successful in this industry you need to be technical and creative, as well as good at maths. If you love computer games and aspire to work in the games industry, this is a great course to get you on your way.

For direct entry into Year 2 of the HND, you’ll need:

• HNC Computer Games Development, with a minimum of 15 credits Preferably an A or B for the HNC Graded Unit
• an interview with us.

In the HND, you’ll develop your programming skills further and increase your knowledge of games.

To give you important background knowledge:

• you’ll explore the history and culture of computer games through social, economic and technical advances.
• you’ll focus on the key developments and technologies that have revolutionised the games industry.
• you’ll explore object oriented programming for games development.
• you’ll analyse a programming problem and design an object oriented solution.
• you’ll look at software development using an event driven programming language.
• you’ll develop program modules and learn how to create software solutions to problems.
• you’ll also do some maths relevant to interactive computing, mainly 3D matrices and calculus.
• you’ll develop skills in game customisation and scripting.
• you’ll look at immersive level design, and produce a technical reference for a level to be created within a game development environment.
• you’ll extend your skills in character creation and storytelling, and develop skills in 3D modelling and animation.
• you’ll explore mobile technology and factors such as networks, legislation, social and ethical issues, apps and security.
• you’ll design and implement your own app for a mobile device.

You’ll also have the chance to:

• work on real client projects, such as create a 3D model for an organisation.
• take part in an end of year Student Showcase. Volunteer with CoderDojo, the global network of free programming clubs for children and young people.
• attend open days and hear guest speakers from universities and industry.

When you successfully complete this course, you’ll have the choice of: Moving onto a degree course at one of our partner universities, such as UWS or Glasgow Caledonian University (direct entry to year 2 or year 3), possibly via our articulation arrangements Seeking to start your career with an entry level role in the software industry.

By choosing HND Computer Games, you’ll gain:

• advanced programming skills for game development
• in-depth knowledge of the history and culture of computer games
• expertise in 3D modeling, animation, and mobile technology
• real-world experience through client projects and showcases
• opportunities for volunteering with CoderDojo and engaging with industry experts
• a stepping stone to further academic pursuits or a rewarding career in the software industry

Throughout the course you will meet with guest speakers from universities, various companies and third sector organisations as well as ex-students who have studied the course and gone on to further study. There are also opportunities to work on projects alongside a number of companies such as CyberFirst, iDance, Barclays Bank, East, North, and South Ayrshire Councils, and many more.

3rd year entry to a range of course such as; BSc (Hons) Games Development at GCU and UWS, BSc (Hons) 3D Animation and Visualisation with pathways for games and VFX at GCU and many more.