Games Development and Design (Level 3 UAL Extended Diploma) — Full-time
Course outline
This course is perfect if you play games and want to learn how to make them. If gaming is your thing and you dream of creating the next best-selling game and seeing your name on the credits, this is the course for you.
You’ll learn techniques that plug you straight into the industry from the design of a game through to app development, ranging from digital production techniques and creative disciplines, including:
- Computer games platforms and technology
- 3D modelling and animation
- App development
- Designing tests for computer games
- Computer game engines
- Programming
- Concepts for artwork used in computer games
You can expect a course that offers a broad range of practical study, using great facilities with industry-standard equipment. You’ll complete various assessments throughout your study, resulting in a final industry-standard games showreel, and an end of year show where you’ll showcase your work professionally. You will complete 90 credits in Year 1 and gain a standalone qualification. On successful completion of this, you will progress into Year 2 to gain the full Extended Diploma.
You can view the fantastic works of our Media, Photography & Performance students on our showcase website run by our media faculty team.
View showcaseHow to apply for this course
Apply online to start in 2025/26.
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Location:
111 Canal Street
Nottingham NG1 7HB |
Date:Start: Monday 1st September 2025 |
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Course code: C027002 / Q027008 |
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| Qualification | UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Games Design |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years |
| Level | Level 3 |
| Entry requirements | You’ll need 5 GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C), including English Language and Maths – both of these must be grades 9–4 (A*–C) or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths, or a relevant Level 2 vocational qualification with English and Maths GCSE grades 9–4 (A*–C). You will also need a portfolio or showreel of work. |
| Teaching & assessment | You’ll complete various assessments throughout your study resulting in a final industry standard games show-reel and an end of year show where you’ll showcase your work professionally. |
| Progression | Choose to follow with further study at degree level in games art, multimedia, digital media, design or games development. We offer a foundation degree in Digital Design and a top-up degree in Digital Media Design. Job opportunities include: app developer, programmer, games tester, 3D modeller or animation specialist. |
| Additional information | Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees. If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more! If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information. |
Student case study: Kaitlin - Games Design
Kaitlin overcame her anxiety and went from strength to strength on her Games Design course.
Media Lecturer Rob Hitchen
Our hands-on courses are aligned with careers which means our students regularly put the skills they learn into practice.
Media Lecturer Rob Hitchen talks about the newly built Digital Media Centre based at the City Hub, which features future ready technology providing our students with the experience, knowledge and professional skills ready for when they enter the media industry.