Barnsley College University Centre has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
The Higher National Certificate in Game Development equips you with essential skills and knowledge in game design and development. The program covers core game development concepts, practical skills through research, and workplace scenarios. It fosters communication, teamwork, and analytical abilities, preparing you for further education or employment in the gaming industry. This course provides a strong foundation for future career prospects in game development.
Modules
The Higher National Certificate comprises of two modules: Concept and Development – This module is designed to enable the practice and development of your underpinning knowledge, understanding and proficiency of creative practice through exploration of game design. You will explore the history, theories and developments related to game design. You will explore the technical knowledge and skills necessary to support your creative practice. Creative Project – This module is designed to give you the opportunity to consolidate and apply your learning through the production of a portfolio of work related to game design. A wide range of teaching and learning strategies are utilised across the programme and these are indicated within the relevant modules. This includes the delivery of lectures, practical workshop sessions, technical guidance, case studies, discussion groups and student- led seminars. During the induction process the students will be introduced to study skills, referencing, research skills and the appropriate use of academic language. The College VLE, other relevant ICT resources and the internet will be encouraged for use as both study and investigative tools. Students are enabled to develop transferable skills through the outlined teaching and learning methods and are encouraged to develop reflective practice through feedback, both summative and formative, student logbooks and their progress file. Teaching and Learning methods Lectures Discussion Groups Research- based directed written work One to one subject tutorials Group tutorials and verbal feedback Practical demonstration Tutor-led Workshops Seminars
Assessment method
You will complete project-based assessments which are industry-focussed. The teaching will reflect the project approach and will include aspects of teamworking.
How to apply
29Jan
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- GDEC
- Institution code:
- B13
- Campus name:
- Barnsley College Higher Education Church Street Campus
- Campus code:
- B
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
We are not currently accepting international applications
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 64 points
GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
https://www.barnsley.ac.uk/course/games-development-level-4-higher-national-certificate-hnc/
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £5995 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £5995 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £5995 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £5995 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Fees are calculated at 2024 prices but are subject to change for 2025
Provider information
Barnsley College University Centre
PO Box No 266
Church Street
Barnsley
S70 2YW