Games Design

Do you aspire to work in the creative industries? Do you have a passion for games design? Then this Level 1 course will help you to start that journey by developing your creative potential. This exciting one-year study programme offers an opportunity for you to develop skills in Games Design. These skills will allow you to develop a portfolio and aid your progression to one of our higher-level courses.

Following on from the skills developed at Level 1, you will continue to learn about the key elements of video games development and gain insight into the fastest growing creative industry worldwide.

Do you dream of a career in the games industry? This two-year course will give you the skills you need to do just that. Learn all the key skills that are used in the development of your favourite games such as modelling, art, design.

This two-year course will give you the entry-level skills you need to work in the Games, Animation and Visual Effects (VFX) industries. The Sheffield College (one of only 8 colleges in the UK working with NextGen) has collaborated with employers to identify the skills that are crucial in these fast-moving digital industries. You will develop technical, artistic, maths and programming skills that are vital to the successful creation of any game, animation or visual effects sequence. Over two years, students will build specialist portfolios relevant to industry needs and as preparation for either working in these sectors or as a progression to higher education or higher apprenticeships.

Games Design Level 1

3 GCSEs at grade 2 or above to include English Language.

Games Design Level 2

4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above to include English Language.

Games Design Level 3

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to include English Language.

NextGen Games Animation and VFX skills Level 3

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to include English Language.

Games Design Level 1

Assessment for the Level 1 Certificate is through a series of coursework-based assignments, there are no exams.

Games Design Level 2

Assessment for the Level 2 Certificate is through a series of coursework-based assignments, there are no exams.

Games Design Level 3

The course is assessed through a series of assignments. Typically, you'll develop your skills and understanding through different projects before been given a deadline and a list of outcomes which you will have to produce. You will need to have good time management skills and be able to work to targets and deadlines.

NextGen Games Animation and VFX skills Level 3

The course is assessed through a series of assignments including:

• Portfolio work

• Development blogs

• Written reports

• Programming assessments

You will need to have good time management skills and be able to work to targets and deadlines.

After completing these courses, you could progress to a university-level qualification in games design, computer animation, VFX, or digital media. Higher and degree apprenticeships are also available in areas such as software development, digital design, or creative technology.

The games industry is global, exciting, and constantly evolving. With the right skills, you could work in roles such as:

• Games Designer

• Animator

• 3D Artist Visual Effects (VFX) Artist

• Games Programmer

• Level Designer

• Concept Artist

• QA Tester

• Producer or Project Manager

Studying games design opens the door to a career where you can shape the future of interactive entertainment.

Interview Process

For this course, the interview process for the includes an information session followed by a 1:1 chat with a tutor. During the information session, you will receive important details about the course structure and expectations, along with a chance to ask any questions. This is crucial to ensure you understand the course fully and how it aligns with your goals.

Will the course suit me?

These courses are perfect for anyone who loves gaming, storytelling, and technology. If you’re creative, enjoy problem-solving, and want to design characters, worlds, or gameplay, games design could be the right path for you. As the course is assessed entirely by coursework they should have good time management skills and be able to work to targets and deadlines.

Staff and Facilities

At The Sheffield College, you will learn from highly qualified staff with a wealth of experience in both academic and games design sectors. The college offers excellent facilities to support your learning, including fully equipped games development suites, interactive learning environments, and access to industry-standard resources.

Course Enrichment

You will have the opportunity to engage in various enrichment activities such as industry visits, guest speaker sessions, workshops, and community-based projects.

You will be required to pay a £25 studio fee at the beginning of the academic year to contribute to course materials. The purchase of some specialist tools and equipment will also be required (e.g. sketchbooks and media storage). This should not exceed £150 p.a. There will also be costs for several visits (local, national and international) which are payable in advance of the trip. Students may be entitled to help with these costs and other expenses from the college’s Student Support Fund.