What opportunities will this course give me?

The games industry is strong in Europe. The UK is the fourth largest games producing country in the world, after the USA, Japan and Canada. Computer-generated animation features strongly in motion pictures (to create special effects or an animated film in its own right), as well as in aspects of television work, the Internet and the computer games industry. The media industry is massive and provides a huge marketplace for employment opportunities within a wide range of industries.

Direct entry to the industry, although uncommon, is possible for talented students. Progression from this programme can be to university to study degree subjects such as BSc (Hons) Digital Media, BA (Hons) Media Studies, BA (Hons) Media Studies and Entertainment Technology and BSc (Hons) Computer Games Technology. You could also progress to BTEC Level 4 / 5 HND in Creative Media at Eastleigh College if you achieve at least an overall Merit grade, alongside a positive tutor reference.

What will I be learning?

This programme is designed for individuals interested in modern media production, such as digital graphics, game design, DVD authoring, 2D and 3D animation, stop motion animation, motion graphics and 3D modelling. During the programme you will create both a 2D and 3D computer game suitable for a host of technologies including mobile phones, PCs, Macs, Xbox 360, PS3 and many more. You will also create instructional and entertainment based video productions, each with digital special effects.

In addition, as a Microsoft IT Academy Program Member, we are able to offer Microsoft certification alongside many of our units of study.

Throughout the programme you will learn the techniques and skills required and used by industry. You will learn from lecturers with experience using the software and tools that industry use.

Units studied within the programme include subjects such as:
-3D Modelling
-3D Animation
-Working Freelance in the Computer Games Sector
-Drawing Concept Art for Computer Games
-Digital Graphics for Computer Games
-Understanding the Creative Media Sector
-Motion Graphics and Compositing Video
-2D Animation Production
-Working to a Brief in the Creative Media Industries

Units are selected each year that reflect the skill shortages in the industry so may change slightly from those listed above.

Why is this course for me?

The programme is taught through lectures, practical sessions, seminars, group work and the use of the Internet for research. Students will be assessed by a variety of methods including written and practical learning.

What do I need to sign up?

You will strictly require at least five GCSEs grades 9-4 (C or better) These need to include English and Mathematics. Equivalents such as functional skills are not accepted as their content is not the same as the GCSE curriculum. All applicants should also complete a successful interview in college, demonstrating interest and commitment to study and have good attendance and attainment reports from a previous school or college. This two year programme offers progression to our own Higher Education program or to a vast range of University offers.

Is there anything else I need to know?

All students can use our Learning Centre which is fully equipped with modern PCs, printers and scanners and access to the Internet is available in all computer rooms.

Suitable PCs, media equipment and software are fully available to all learners while at college. There is no additional outlay for software and most of the software used may be installed on home computers throughout the period of the programme. Help and guidance for installing such software is always available. Learners will be expected to have a suitable laptop or PC available for their own use at home (specifications available upon request).

All full-time students will be provided with email facilities for use with coursework.

Course Code

PRDEC3

Need some further advice?

If you require further advice and guidance about any of our courses, the College has a dedicated Careers Advisor who can be contacted on telephone 023 8091 1014

The Equality Act

The College wishes to ensure that it complies with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. If you are a disabled person, please ensure that we know what you need so that we can make all reasonable adjustments to help you succeed.

Please note all courses descriptions may be subject to change.