FD (Arts) Digital Media and Games Design
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-16 | - |
Program Overview
The FD (Arts) Digital Media and Games Design program at the University of Wolverhampton and Heart of Worcestershire College provides a comprehensive foundation in digital media and games design. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students develop technical and methodological skills in 3D modeling, game design, animation, and more. The program emphasizes teamwork, employability skills, and real-world client projects, preparing graduates for careers in the digital media and games industries or related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
FD (Arts) Digital Media and Games Design
is a full-time, 2-year or part-time, 3-year program offered by the University of Wolverhampton in partnership with Heart of Worcestershire College.
Objectives:
- Provide a broad understanding of the digital media and games design industries.
- Equip students with the technical and methodological skills needed to design, develop, and implement digital media and games.
- Offer advanced 3D modeling and game engine skills.
- Foster teamwork and employability skills through real-world client projects.
- Prepare students for potential careers in the digital media and games design industries or other related fields.
Program Description:
This program focuses on the fundamentals of digital media and games design, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students will learn 3D modeling, game design, animation, game mechanics, graphic design, and more. The curriculum emphasizes iterative learning, providing opportunities for students to refine their skills through regular feedback and practical projects.
Unique Features:
- Utilizes industry-standard software such as 3D modeling programs and game engines.
- Offers access to specialized equipment including virtual reality (VR) and motion capture technology.
- Provides opportunities to work on real-world client projects through work-based learning modules.
- Emphasizes teamwork and collaboration.
- Offers optional progression to the final year of the BA (Hons) Computer Games Design course at the University of Wolverhampton.
Program Delivery:
Heart of Worcestershire College offers a more personal learning environment compared to traditional universities. The program is delivered in a smaller setting with individualized attention and support. Students attend classes two full days per week, with each day consisting of four separate sessions.
Outline:
Year 1 Modules:
- Digital Animation and Video Production: Explores the function and importance of video sequences in film, television, and games.
- Game Modelling: Covers the designing and creation of 3D environment assets and objects using industry-standard software.
- Game Structures: Introduces game design balancing strategies, research, and development of a game with a balanced gameplay experience.
- Graphic Design: Focuses on creating 2D graphics for digital media products, including online portfolio development.
- Interaction in Games: Provides an introduction to elementary techniques and concepts in computer game interactivity.
- Working to a Client Brief: A work-based learning module involving live projects from initial client proposal to final presentation.
Year 2 Modules:
- Advanced Modelling for Games: Allows students to create complex 3D models using advanced techniques and workflows.
- Character Modelling: Focuses on constructing a 3D character ready for animation and integration into a game engine.
- Emerging Technologies: Explores the application of emerging technologies in an industry outside of games, using industry-standard software in a different context.
- Game Production: Provides an opportunity to develop a visual, story-driven, or technical prototype based on individual interests.
- Group Project: Involves producing a design document covering production planning, workflow, functionality specifications, and more.
- Pitch and Development: Develops a media product based on client information, with further research and independent production.
Assessment:
All assessments are course-based, with no written exams. Most modules involve ongoing feedback through weekly discussions and assessments of ongoing project work. Assessment methods include essays, reports, presentations, project work, and reflective learning logs.
Teaching:
Teaching methods include:
- Project-based learning activities
- Workshops and case studies
- Lectures and seminars
- Studio and lab learning
- Software tuition
- Practical demonstrations
- Teamwork and group discussions
- Group-led projects
- Industry professional presentations
- Individual and group tutorials
- Problem-based tasks
- Formative and summative assignments with feedback
- Web-based and other digital learning resources
- Self-directed study Faculty includes experienced professionals in the fields of digital media and games design, with industry-specific knowledge and practical experience.
Careers:
The program prepares students for a variety of career paths in the digital media and games industries, including:
- Level designer
- 3D modeler
- Texture artist
- 3D visualiser
- 2D/3D game designer
- Character designer
- Character rigging
- Cutscene animation
- App developer
- UI designer
- Game tester The program also equips students with skills applicable to other non-media based industries, including architectural visualization, forensics, and applications for specialized target audiences.
Other:
- The program emphasizes the development of key skills like idea generation, 3D modeling, texturing, 3D level design, 3D animation, game structures and balancing, game mechanics, interface design, graphic design, professional workflows, and group work.
- Students are encouraged to explore their individual interests and specializations within the field, fostering a deeper understanding of their chosen career path.
- The program offers opportunities for networking with industry professionals through work-based learning modules and guest speaker presentations.
- Optional progression to the final year of the BA (Hons) Computer Games Design course at the University of Wolverhampton is available, providing further opportunities for career development and higher qualifications.
University of Wolverhampton
Overview:
The University of Wolverhampton is a public university located in Wolverhampton, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as degree apprenticeships and CPD short courses. The university is known for its strong focus on student support and its commitment to providing a high-quality learning experience.
Services Offered:
The University of Wolverhampton offers a variety of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
The university provides academic support services such as tutoring, writing workshops, and study skills development.Student Support:
Students have access to a range of support services, including disability support, mature student support, and career guidance.Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.IT Services:
Students have access to a range of IT services, including computer labs, Wi-Fi, and online learning platforms.Library:
The university library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.Gym:
The university has a gym with a variety of facilities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and sports courts.Students' Union:
The Students' Union provides a range of services and activities for students, including social events, clubs, and societies.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Wolverhampton can expect a vibrant and supportive campus environment. The university has a strong sense of community, with a variety of clubs, societies, and events to get involved in. The university also has a number of facilities and services to support student life, including a gym, a Students' Union, and a library.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Student Support:
The university is known for its strong focus on student support, with a range of services available to help students succeed.Affordable Living:
The university offers a variety of affordable accommodation options, as well as information and support for finding off-campus housing.High-Quality Learning Experience:
The university is committed to providing a high-quality learning experience, with experienced lecturers and modern facilities.Strong Graduate Outcomes:
A high percentage of the university's graduates are employed or in further education within 15 months of graduation.Academic Programs:
The University of Wolverhampton offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts, Business, and Social Sciences:
The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as creative industries, social science, humanities, business, and law.Education, Health, and Wellbeing:
The university offers a variety of programs in these fields, including education, nursing, midwifery, psychology, health and society, and sport.Science and Engineering:
The university has a strong reputation in these fields, with programs in areas such as architecture, built environment, engineering, computing, mathematical sciences, life sciences, and pharmacy.Other:
The university has a strong commitment to research, with a number of research centers and institutes. The university also has a strong international focus, with a number of programs and services for international students.
Entry Requirements
UK/EU Students
- GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above AND
- DD from ‘A’ levels OR
- BTEC Extended Diploma in a related subject PPP OR
- BTEC Diploma in a related subject MP If you've got other qualifications or relevant experience, please contact The Gateway for further advice before applying.
International Students
International entry requirements and application guidance can be found here.
Other Requirements
- Students must have studied a minimum of two years post GCSE level.
- Mature students with work experience who wish to further their career development may also be considered. These applicants will be processed through standard procedures, which may involve an interview as part of the process. Please see http://wlv.ac.uk/mature for further information.
- Those who do not meet the entry requirements may be offered an alternative course.
