Foundation DegreeGame Art, Design and DevelopmentValidated by The Open University
Qualifications
FOUNDATION DEGREE IN GAME ART DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
Overview
As an Epic Games Unreal Academic Partner, Belfast Metropolitan College is delighted to introduce our brand-new Foundation Degree in Game Art, Design, and Development. This program is meticulously crafted for individuals passionate about the future of gaming, blending artistic vision with cutting-edge development skills. Our dedicated team of lecturers brings a wealth of experience and insights to the classroom, committed to nurturing the next generation of game creators and ensuring each student receives the mentorship and guidance needed to excel in this dynamic field.
Year One: The first year provides a comprehensive understanding of game art, design, and development, preparing students for advanced studies in the second year. Content covered includes:
- Introduction to Game Art and Design: Explore game design fundamentals, including concept development, aesthetics, and gameplay mechanics.
- Basics of 3D Modelling and Animation: Learn to create and animate 3D models using industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya. This module not only teaches the technical aspects of modelling and animation but also delves into the foundational principles of animation.
- Exploring the Game Development Pipeline: Gain insights into the game development process from pre-production to post-production.
- Crafting Basic Game Prototypes: Apply skills using Unreal Engine to create game prototypes, reinforcing the year’s learning.
Year Two: In the second year, students build upon their foundational knowledge, focusing on advanced techniques and cutting-edge technologies:
- Advanced Modelling and Animation: Dive into more advanced modelling techniques, while also exploring complex rigging, animation and motion capture.
- Real-time Game Environments and Lighting: Master real-time lighting techniques to create dynamic game environments.
- Interactive Gameplay Mechanics: Develop advanced gameplay mechanics, focusing on player interaction and AI integration.
- Emerging Technology Development: Engage with the latest emerging technologies in game development.
- Collaborative Projects and Work-Based Learning: Undertake real-world game development scenarios and a module in Work-Based Learning.
State-of-the-Art Facilities at E3 Studios, Belfast: Our students have unparalleled access to advanced facilities:
- Advanced PC Labs: Equipped with high-performance PCs and top-tier software like Unreal Engine, Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter.
- AR/VR and Gaming Technology: Explore augmented and virtual reality technologies and get access to the latest in gaming systems.
- Virtual Production Studio and TV Studio: Utilise our full production-ready studios for interdisciplinary projects.
Join Us at Belfast Metropolitan College. Start your journey in game art, design, and development with us. Our partnership with Epic Games and cutting-edge facilities provides a gateway to a successful career in the gaming industry. Enrol today and become part of the next generation of game creators and innovators.
Ready to take your career to the next level in game art, design, and development? Explore the links below to learn more about our validated awards and regulations:
OU Handbooks and Regulations can be found under the Higher Education section of our public documents.
Regulations for validated awards of The Open University
Student's guide to studying on a programme validated by The Open University
Applications to this course can be made through UCAS using code U425. If you haven’t started a UCAS application yet, and only want to apply to Belfast Met, you can apply directly to us using Apply Now option and we will process a UCAS application on your behalf. IMPORTANT: Applicants must only choose one method of application.
Please check out the video below for more information on this course.
Gallery
64 UCAS Points
Minimum entry requirements are pre-defined by the College’s admissions criteria, which can be found by visiting our entry criteria page on this link
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) for HE Courses
APL allows you to use evidence from prior learning or experience to gain entry onto a course at Belfast Met. Belfast Met will work with you to make sure that relevant learning or work experience is formally recognised through the APL Process. For more information see Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) Process - Guidance for applicants. If you would like more information, or if you decide you would like to use the APL process, please contact the Course Co-ordinator. Contact details are provided at the end of these slides and on the course details page on Belfast Met website.
Fees:
Academic period 2026*:
Tuition Fee = £3235.00
Academic period 2027*:
Tuition Fee = £3235.00
Fees are payable annually.
*The fees have not been finalised and may be subject to change.
Visit our Student Funding page here to find out how to fund your studies
All fees are set in accordance with DfE regulations.
Please contact the student loan company if you require a loan or our Funding Team by emailing studentfunding@belfastmet.ac.uk for other options.
Whenever possible, we make our assessment methods as practical, with written components primarily being used to reinforce technical understanding and personally reflect on own performance. However, research is a core component to the development of any skillset, and so will be tested through written assessment alongside academic writing skills appropriate to the foundation degree level.
Careers
Graduates are well-equipped for roles such as Game Designers, Game Developers, 3D Modellers, Animators, Level Designers, and Environment Artists, among many others. Our course prepares students with both technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities for a vibrant career in the gaming industry.
Game Art, Design and Development Gallery
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