Foundation Degree in Games Development FdA

The Sheffield College

This course has been specially designed for students who wish to pursue a career within the computer games industry, while also developing skills related to other creative sectors.

About the Course

We offer industry standard software taught by trained professionals, practical workshops, guest lectures as well as strong industry and higher education links. The course provides excellent enrichment through visits and industry set projects. We have a dedicated, young and passionate team of staff with industry experience who will ensure a supportive environment conducive to learning. We aim to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge that are required of a creative industry that offers exciting and rewarding career prospects in computer games or related areas.

The programme will be mainly based around the artistic elements of games design, covering concept art, illustration, storyboarding, level design, digital sculpting, 3D computer modelling, texturing, light, rigging and animation. The course provides and insight into the professional practice of games design through practical demonstration, research and theory-based study. Students are encouraged to explore a variety of sources and subjects that influence their development as well as experiencing a range of teaching methods such as formal lectures, team teaching, practical demonstrations and tutorials that further enhance their learning experience.

Attendance

Students will spend 15 hours in class and it is recommended that students spend at least 25 hours per week self-study time if they expect to meet the standards required by an employer or client. Student should expect to spend a minimum of one week on work placement although this is dependent upon the placement that are available and there is no guarantee of placement. 

Our facilities include dedicated high end PC/iMac suites installed with current industry standard 2d and 3d software. This includes the Autodesk and Adobe suites as well as games development software such as Gamemaker, UDK and Unity. We also have access to photography studios and state of the art DSLR cameras. You will learn a broad range of skills, from drawing to 3D modelling and animation with the opportunity to specialise in an area of your choice. 

The course is well structured while remaining flexible, allowing you to focus on an area of preference, and enables you to build a creative and effective portfolio.

The course team has an extensive network of contacts in the games and the post production industry. We look to arrange opportunities for our students to visit development companies, as well as inviting industrial experts to give guest lectures and talk about job opportunities within the industry.

HND students follow exactly the same syllabus as degree-level students but benefit from additional support and tutorials during their first two years of study with strong links to universities.