Games Development Diploma, Level 3 Diploma
Program Overview
The Games Development Diploma, a two-year Level 3 Extended Diploma, combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills in game design, programming, graphics, and audio. Taught by industry professionals who also teach Higher Education programs, the program emphasizes project-based learning and offers unique features like the Games Lab for playtesting and networking. Upon completion, students are prepared for careers in the games industry or a smooth transition into Higher Education courses.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Games Development Diploma is a Level 3 Extended Diploma designed to introduce students to the games industry. It aims to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for a smooth transition into Higher Education courses. The program uses creative, project-based learning, incorporating lectures, workshops, and tutorials on game design, programming, graphics, and audio. Students also develop complementary skills like project management, market research, and pitching. The FE program is taught by the same games industry professionals who teach the Higher Education programs. The program is a two-year extended diploma.
Outline:
The Level 3 (Year 1) and Level 3 Extended (Year 2) curricula include the following modules:
- Game Programming: Students learn technical knowledge and skills, different programming patterns and practices, and how to implement them in projects.
- Game Art: Students develop core skills in creating 2D art and 3D models, using symbolic shapes to represent game elements, and creating game characters and environments.
- Game Design: Students learn and analyze game design principles and their application in creating engaging games.
- Games Lab: A weekly informal session for playtesting, evaluating student, indie, and AAA games and game tech.
- Project Management and Business: All students receive training in project and business management to develop into organized professionals capable of industry leadership.
- Student-led Review Sessions: Weekly sessions where students review learned skills and share knowledge with others.
- Lead Tutor Tutorials: One-hour sessions providing extra tutorials on tools and resources, sometimes including extra-curricular topics.
Teaching:
The program is taught by world-class games industry professionals who also teach Higher Education programs at ACM Guildford. Teaching methods include lectures, workshops, and tutorials. The program emphasizes project-based learning. The Games Lab is a unique approach, providing informal sessions for playtesting, evaluation, and networking. Student-led review sessions encourage reflective learning and knowledge sharing.
Careers:
The program prepares students for careers in the games industry. It mentions that successful completion allows for a smooth transition into Higher Education courses (specifically, ACM's three-year or accelerated two-year Games Development and Futures degree programs).
Other:
The program is delivered as a sub-contract with East Surrey College. The ACM is a member of UKIE (The Association for UK Interactive Entertainment) and the British Esports Association.
The Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) is a premier institution specializing in music and creative arts education, with campuses in Guildford, Surrey; Birmingham; and London, England. Established in 1997, ACM offers a range of programs designed to prepare students for careers in the creative industries.
Programs and Courses
ACM provides diverse courses across several academies:
- Music Academy: Focuses on ensemble skills, recording techniques, technical development, collaboration, and artist development.
- Game Academy: Offers instruction in design, programming, audio, business, and art animation.
- Business Academy: Covers areas such as artist and tour management, creative entrepreneurship, marketing, and distribution.
- Film Academy: Includes training in podcast and radio broadcasting, live radio studios, branding, audience engagement, digital marketing, and social media strategy.
- Live Sound: Emphasizes touring, venue operations, lighting/AV, rigging, and backline management.
- Sound Technology: Focuses on hands-on learning in recording, mixing/mastering, and collaboration with industry professionals.
- Postgraduate Programs: Designed for advanced industry engagement, leadership development, and project planning to launch careers.
Industry Partnerships
ACM maintains strong ties with the industry, notably through its exclusive association with Metropolis Studios in London. This partnership offers students unparalleled access to a working commercial studio environment, bridging the gap between education and industry.
Campuses
Students can choose to study at one of ACM's three campuses:
- London (Brixton): Located in the heart of the city's vibrant music scene.
- Birmingham: Situated in a dynamic and culturally rich urban center.
- Guildford: The original campus offering a blend of historic charm and modern facilities.
Notable Alumni
ACM boasts a roster of successful alumni, including:
- Newton Faulkner: Singer-songwriter known for his album "Hand Built By Robots."
- Amelle Berrabah: Member of the pop group Sugababes.
- Ben King: Lead guitarist of The Yardbirds.
- Matty Healy: Lead vocalist and guitarist of The 1975.
- Ed Sheeran: Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter.
Entry Requirements:
Minimum age 16; at least 4 GCSEs (A – C or 9 – 4 grade) or equivalent level 2 qualification, including English and Maths GCSE (A – C or 9 – 4 grade). Suitability will also be assessed through interview. For those lacking a pass in English or Maths GCSE, the college will provide opportunities to complete these alongside the course; Functional Skills level award may be required first, depending on assessment.
