Software Engineering (Game Development) - Foundation Degree

Entry Requirements

A minimum of 96 UCAS points (excluding Functional Skills) in an appropriate discipline:

• MMM from Extended Diploma or DD from Diploma in any level 3 Computing/IT course
• We will strongly encourage and support those who do not hold GCSE Maths/English at grade C/4, or equivalent qualification, to pursue a Maths/English qualification alongside the main programme.

The entry criteria for direct entry onto Level 5 of the programme is:

• Successful completion of the HNC Computing at Blackpool & The Fylde College

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are expected to achieve a minimum 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component

Applicants who are able to demonstrate relevant work/life skills or knowledge will also be considered on an individual basis.

Course Detail

Taught by experienced tutors with a background in the industry, key elements of the programme are outlined below:

• You will learn to code in industry relevant languages including C++ and DirectX to build skills

• You will examine and apply skills to a range of different delivery platforms and technologies for example PC, PlayStation, and mobile channelling your love of games into viable playable products

• You will gain general software engineering skills including working with databases, networked applications, systems analysis, producing technical designs and working to established development methodologies and developing interfaces all of which increase the range of careers you can pursue both in and out of the games industry

• You will build a portfolio including 2D and 3D game demos, projects on licensed engines such as Unreal, database and network applications, Artificial Intelligence techniques and networked game demos, providing to employers evidence of your abilities and aptitude for key development roles

• You will work in team projects and individually, building collaborative and problem solving skills which will enhance value to future employers and develop yourself both personally and professionally

Qualification Obtained

Industry Placement and Field Trips

During the latter part of this course, you will need to complete 96 hours of related work-based activity. This will involve finding a suitable work placement, which we will encourage you to do yourself. If, for some reason, you’re unable to find a placement, our Workplace Co-ordinator will arrange interviews with employers; we may even find you an internal placement with our own IT Services Department.

Your work-based activity also includes timetabled sessions, which will involve creating CVs, learning about professional guidelines and legislation, and exploring how to apply your new-found skills to the workplace.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Scheduled Learning

Scheduled time relates to the time you spend in directed study with the guidance and support of our academic tutors. Scheduled learning can take a variety of forms and will vary from one course to the next, but may include lectures, seminars, tutorials, project supervision, demonstrations, studio or workshop time, fieldwork and external visits.

Independent Study

Higher education courses rely on students undertaking work outside of formal, scheduled sessions and this is generally categorised as independent study. Independent study might include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks and revision.

Placement

Many of the degree programmes at B&FC incorporate opportunities for work placements to provide you with the opportunity to link your studies to relevant professional practice in a real work environment. Our programme teams are able to offer support in securing an appropriate work placement where it forms part of your programme, and will work closely with you during the placement to ensure that the opportunity allows you to develop personally, professionally and academically.

Expert Tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of higher education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver. The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.

Other Costs and Equipment Needed

There are no direct additional costs for this programme other than the provision of stationery, photocopying and so forth. However, students may wish to purchase a laptop to allow them to do coursework more flexibly. It is possible to borrow a laptop or to get help with financing one if you are eligible for financial support.

Tuition Fees

Please visit our finance page for more information on tuition fees and available financial support.

Regulation and Accreditation

Accrediting Institute: N/A

Awarding Body: The University of Lancaster

Regulatory Body: Office for Students (OfS)

Terms and Conditions

Read our full terms and conditions for more information.

Career Options and Progression

As one of the most vibrant and dynamic markets in computing, the demand for new talent is always strong with companies always on the lookout for the next cutting-edge games developer.

Successful graduates from this programme could confidently progress to any of the following roles:

• software engineer
• interface/UX programmer
• programmer (C++/C#/Java)
• information systems developer (NET/SQL)
• junior game developer
• tools/utilities programmer

Not quite ready for the world of work and want to develop your skills (and career potential) further? Then our one-year top-up course - the BSc (Hons) Software Engineering (Game Development) could be your perfect next step.