School Leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 2 Years Level 3 Full-Time Bede Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Bring your creative ideas to life in the world of game design. This hands-on course helps you develop skills in 2D and 3D game design, animation, and game development. You’ll explore game engines, design software, and programming languages used in the industry, equipping you with practical experience in level design, storytelling, and asset creation. With a focus on building a portfolio that showcases your skills, you’ll gain the expertise to thrive in an ever-growing industry. Whether you’re interested in design, production, or technical roles, this course gives you the foundation to pursue your passion and stand out in the competitive world of gaming.

You will need 4 GCSEs at grade 4-9 including Maths and English. Or a relevant Level 2 qualification.

Study level Cost
16-18 Free

You will be taught using a range of teaching techniques including lectures and workshops. You will be assessed by:
- Written work
- Portfolio
- Development work
- Presentation
- Group activity

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications.

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.

At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

To develop skills in art, animation, 3D, and programming. This is to further understand the integration of each discipline within the wider industry. You will develop an understanding in advanced methods and techniques, developing a portfolio of work that will allow you to apply for further study or a job within the industry as well.

You will study the following modules:

- Exploring and Developing Creative Media Skills
Part 1 - Skills Development
Part 2 - Creative Project

- Advancing Creative Preactice
Part 1 - Personal Progression
Part 2 - Creative Industry Response

This two-year course offers a comprehensive curriculum aimed at equipping aspiring game designers with the skills necessary to navigate the complex landscape of digital game development.

Throughout the program, students will explore a diverse range of topics critical to game design, including game mechanics, level design, character development, graphics, and more. Guided by a faculty of experienced professionals from the industry, learners will acquire a deep understanding of the principles and techniques that underpin successful game design gaining proficiency in essential software platforms such as Unity, Unreal Engine, Maya, and Photoshop.

What’s next?

Upon completing this course, students can progress to university to further their studies in areas such as Game Design, Animation, or Computer Science. Alternatively, you can enter the industry directly, with roles in game design, programming, 3D modelling, or concept art. The skills gained will also open doors to related fields like app development, digital media, or VFX. With a strong portfolio and industry-relevant experience, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue your passion and take your next steps in this exciting and fast-evolving field.

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93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

Why choose Sunderland College?

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

98% of students said they had the freedom to express themselves

NSS, 2024

We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus