Working within game development is an exciting opportunity that combines art, storytelling and technology to bring something to life. Some professional developers will gain a degree at university in game design before moving into a career in this field. But what are the fundamental subjects behind the degree? We will have a look within this article.
Career in Gaming
What does a career look like in gaming? You could be creating games that engage users on several devices. You might be conducting market research, planning storyboards and executing these ideas into games. You will also most likely be working within a team and need to accept constructive criticism adapting plans if needed.
Salaries can range from £18,000 to £65,000 plus, with experience.
You don’t need a degree to become a game designer, however the majority of jobs advertised are looking for a graduate.
Whether you go to university to gain a degree or apply directly for jobs, it is recommended to have a portfolio of work so that you can showcase the skills you have available. Whether it be a Level 2 Diploma, GCSE or A Level, previous studies and qualifications will go a long way to proving your ability. The industry will be looking for the following:
Technical ability – being able to code with programming languages.
Software – Understand how to use packages such as Blueprint Visual Scripting and Unreal Engine.
Passion – You will need to show that you have a passion for the subject.
Teamwork – Being able to work as part of a team is important.
Degree in Gaming
When I mention a gaming degree, you are probably thinking of developing games for a console like PlayStation or Xbox. This can be the case but there also other avenues to go down too. You might want to develop games for the PC, a mobile phone app, something for education or the virtual reality games market.
Finding the right degree is a challenge. There are so many different options and here are a few:
- BSc (hons) Games Technology at UWE Bristol
- BSc (hons) Games Design at Manchester Met
- BSc (hons) Video Game Development at Birmingham City
- BA (hons) Video Game Design at Birmingham City
You can browse a full list of gaming degrees at UCAS.
Whilst the above degrees can help you enter the gaming industry; others may want to use them for alternative careers such as:
- Multimedia artist
- Digital animator
- Software engineer
How to gain a place on a degree in gaming
To be accepted onto a degree at university, you will need UCAS points. A Levels, BTECs and T-Levels all carry UCAS points. If you don’t have UCAS points currently and are not able to attend college, you could consider distance learning A Levels with an online college. Most degrees will also ask for English and Maths GCSE.
A Level subjects for a degree in gaming
There is a range of subjects available at A Level, and it is best to choose subjects that you feel you will enjoy and are good at. That being said, A Level Computer Science is a great subject to choose as it will cover programming, problem-solving and you will learn about hardware and systems. Other learners may choose Mathematics, Physics, English Literature and IT.
A Level Computer Science and gaming
If you would like a good introduction to the technical aspects of gaming, A Level Computer Science is a great start. The course will teach you how to think logically, be creative and you will learn a great deal of technical expertise. No worries about attending college as you can choose to study online with Learn Now Distance Learning College and work your course around your everyday life.
