Diploma in Game Development

Essential Information

Have you been playing computer games for as long as you can remember?

Do you dream of working on the next "World of Warcraft" or "Call of Duty" title?

Do you want to do more than just play games?

Developing a completely new course has allowed us to truly break the academic mould, with projects based on realistic industry expectations. In a groundbreaking move, our diploma allows artists, designers and programmers to work together on the same course - studying specialist modules from the flexible course structure. With this new approach, you’ll be part of a small development team making real games using the right tools - whether you want to be an artist, designer or programmer.

Key Features

• Guaranteed no price hike - fees fixed for the duration of the course
• Delivered by real game developers who know first-hand the skills you need to   learn
• Longer academic years than an equivalent degree
• Team-based study - you'll make real games the way real studios make them
• Work experience - we'll help find you a place in a game studio
• Built on the official curriculum set out by the IGDA

Course Overview

Using industry-standard software and techniques throughout the course, you’ll be learning the right skills using the right tools and, most importantly, in the right environment. The Futureworks Game Department is operated entirely by skilled game artists, designers and programmers with real industry experience. Unlike many colleges and universities, Futureworks feels like a real games studio.

Upon completion of the Diploma in Game Development - and your work placement - you will leave us ready for entry directly into industry.

This course covers everything you need to succeed as a game developer. Whatever level you’re currently at - the Diploma in Game Development will be a massive plus for your future career.

"I am very pleased and thankful with how Futureworks have worked closely with Smashmouth Games over the last year. The new diploma allows our collaboration to take the synergy between game development and academia to new heights, where we produce high-calibre candidates ready for a dynamic industry."
[ Zuby Ahmed, Smashmouth Games Ltd- Managing Director, IGDA UK North West - Chapter Coordinator]

Where will this course lead me?

The course prepares you for a variety of roles including Games Designer, Game Artist, Level Editor, Scene Editor, Concept Artist, Programmer, Tools Programmer, Game Engine Programmer or Animator.

Who is the course for?

This course is for anyone who wants to work in the games industry, and has the passion, drive and ambition to make it to the top, regardless of age or experience.

Are there any pre-requisites?

• Year 1: A real passion for computer games and a working knowledge of Windows
• Year 2: Previous experience or demonstrable knowledge in your chosen specialist path
• Year 3: Previous experience or demonstrable knowledge in your chosen specialist path

When Will I Study?

Attendance is 2 evenings per week for lectures and lab sessions (3 hours each). Practical time can be booked to suit your availability, and in year 1 should typically amount to a minimum of 10 hours per week.

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Detailed Description

Year 1

Whether you’re an artist, designer or programmer you’ll be provided with a solid grounding in the 3 key areas of game development, to enable progression into any career within the computer games industry.

In year one you'll learn Game Art, Design AND Programming

Games Design

• Overview of Video Games
• Game Production and Teams
• Game Industry Roles and Economics
• Game Design 1

Game Art

• Art and Asset Creation
• Graphics and Animation Overview

Game Programming

• Programming Languages and Architecture
• 3D Maths and Physics Concepts
• Artificial Intelligence, Audio, and Networking Overview

Year 2

Year 2 allows you to specialise in the area of game development that most interests you. The course is tailored to suit your specific requirements and is split into three distinct paths. This year is projected oriented and very practical.

In year two you specialise in either Game Art, Games Design OR Game Programming

Entry is possible directly into Year 2 for candidates who have suitable previous experience.

Design Track

• History of Computer Games
• Societal & Cultural Game Issues
• Game Design 2
• Game Design 3
• Influence of Artificial Intelligence & Audio on Game Design

Art Track

• Game Art Fundamentals
• Conceptual Design & Asset Creation
• 3D Modelling in 3ds Max
• Texture Mapping
• Character Design & Modelling
• Character Animation

Programming Track

• Object Oriented C++
• Graphics & Animation
• The DirectX 11 API
• Programming Vertex & Pixel Shaders
• Game Engine Programming
• Audio, Networking & A.I.
• Collision Detection & Real-time Physics

Year 3

Year 3 culminates in a year-long game development project. Utilising all the skills learnt during your previous 2 years of study you will be working towards creating a full release title for the platform of your choice - pushing the limits of the technology, and establishing yourself as a credible games developer.

Projects will be conducted in development teams comprised of both second and third year students, with third-year students taking more senior roles in the team. With complete freedom over tools, technology, platform and concept, your final project will represent the combined skill and knowledge of your Diploma studies, and will result in the creation of a releasable title and a superb portfolio piece.

Entry is possible directly into Year 3 for candidates who have suitable previous experience.

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FAQs

Which facilities will I have access to?

You will be taught in our purpose built games labs, with practical time taking place throughout the facility, including the Pods, meeting rooms, open-access facilities in the lounge and in our in-house games studio.

How will I be taught?

A mix of informative lectures / workshops combined with both guided and independent practical activity. There is a major focus on practical projects, and you will be encouraged to work with students from different disciplines.

Who will I be taught by?

All Futureworks tutors are experienced industry professionals. You'll also receive regular training from the team at Smashmouth Games, as well as regular lectures and workshops from carefully chosen visiting tutors with specialisms in certain areas.

How am I assessed?

Assessment comprises a series of real-world projects, which are marked according to industry specifications as laid out by the IGDA curriculum framework. There are no exams - we test you on your ability to do the job!

What qualifications will I receive?

Successful graduates will achieve Futureworks' Diploma in Game Development. You'll also leave with a stunning portfolio of work, and many months of hands-on experience under your belt - and a real edge over students studying on regular university games courses.

How do I apply?

Just click the button below for all the information on the application process.

What are my payment options?

Course Fees are £10125 or initial payment of £273.65 and 36 monthly installments of £273.65. More information on funding is available by calling us on +44(0) 161 237 7570.

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