This programme is a Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) which could lead you directly into employment or onto the second year of study, on the Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND).
Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and cutting-edge techniques shaping interactive entertainment today. Our course covers everything from cultural contexts and 3D design to programming and project management. You’ll gain contextual knowledge essential for creating innovative, socially responsible games.
Bring your game ideas to life through our iterative development process. Explore, test, and refine your concepts with guidance from experienced tutors. Build your portfolio as you progress from paper prototypes to finished products using industry-standard tools like Unity, Unreal and 3Ds Max.
Develop your technical abilities to thrive as a game developer, programmer, or designer. Our facilities boast state-of-the-art labs kitted out with the latest hardware and software. You’ll also benefit from guest lectures by working professionals.
This challenging yet rewarding course will equip you with the practical skills and professional behaviours needed to launch your dream career. Join our vibrant community of creators and make your mark on the future of gaming. Apply today to turn your gaming passion into a profession!
Year 1 (HNC – Module A: Process & Practice)
Software Utilised:
Year 2 (HND – Module B: Professional Creative Practice)
Requirements for the course are Merit at UAL or MMP at BTEC L3.
If you have not achieved these grades your applications are still welcome but will be subject to an interview and portfolio check. GCSE English and Maths at grade 9-4 (A*-C).
We welcome applications from mature students without these qualifications but with relevant experience.
An interview is required.
All assessment is project based work in the form of assignment briefs. This might include written assignments, practical tasks and presentations.
Staff have many years of teaching experience across the HE and FE sector.
Links with local businesses in the digital sector, including Proto and Infinity 27, mean we can adapt to changes in the industry and access professionals for their experience and advice.
This might include work experience opportunities, guest speakers or visits to games conferences.
Our HE room is kitted out in hi spec PCs designed to run the most update software, including Unreal, Unity and 3D modelling software.
At the end of the year, you can progress into employment or continue your studies and complete a Level 5 HND.
The fee shown is the fee you will pay per year of study. For example, if the course lasts for one year, this is the full fee you will pay.
If the course lasts for one or more years, this is the fee you’ll pay per year of study.
There may be additional costs for equipment, uniforms or study resources which we’ll let you know about at your course interview.
Many of our learners will apply for a Student Loan to help cover these fees.
Our friendly team can help you through this process and can be contacted via email at [email protected] or 0191 490 0300 or via Live Chat.
Please note: The fee shown may be subject to change.
If this happens, you will be contacted directly before the course is due to start.
All courses will run subject to sufficient student numbers.
The fee for this course is £5,995.
Many of our learners will apply for a Student Loan to help cover these fees. Our friendly team can help you through this process and can be contacted via email at [email protected] or 0191 490 0300 or via Live Chat.
Please note: The fee shown may be subject to change when our fee policy is agreed in Spring 2025. If this happens after you have applied, you will be contacted directly before the course is due to start. All courses will run subject to sufficient student numbers.
You can apply through UCAS at www.ucas.com. The institution code for Gateshead College is G09 and the course code for this course is 0061.
Please note: The fee shown may be subject to change when our fee policy is agreed in Spring 2025.
If this happens after you have applied, you will be contacted directly before the course is due to start.
Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college. We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
To contact our dedicated Learning Support team email [email protected] or head to Live Chat
Knowledge
Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Clerical: Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Administration and Management: Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Median Salary£37,592
Average QualificationsHonours, Bachelor's degree
Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Telecommunications: Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Median Salary£54,279
Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Fine Arts: Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Communications and Media: Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Sales and Marketing: Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Median Salary£25,946
JOIN OUR SPORTS ACADEMIES
Eight specialist sport academies, all offering first class training, coaching and playing opportunities for everyone, regardless of what you study.
Connect with our Academy socials:
Enrolment Event
Monday 15 June 2026
Rail Track Maintenance Information Session – South Shields
Tuesday 16 June 2026
UPCOMING EVENTS.
Find out about all our upcoming events here. Simply sign up and come along.
View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.