NPA Games Development

Computing Science Department

Computer gaming is now a growing industry, with Scotland as one of the global leaders. These companies rely on a range of creative skills such as art, design, animation, audio and programming which this course develops.

The awards provide a foundation in the knowledge and skills of Computer Games Development that will be necessary if you intend to pursue a career in Computer Games Development, Digital Media Studies, Computing Science and IT subjects.

It is recognised that candidates who demonstrate the basic Core Skills coupled with an understanding of the use of digital technology are more likely to gain employment than those with just IT skills alone.

The course opens the lens to the computer gaming industry and allows the pupils to take an in-depth look at what is involved in the production of computer games.

The NPA's in Computer Games Development at SCQF levels 4, 5 and 6 introduce learners to the genres, trends and emerging technologies of the computer games industry.

Assessment

Assignment

Internal assessments across three units:

Design
Media
Development

To gain an overall course award candidates must complete tasks that demonstrate outcomes for the above units.

Ideal Candidate

This course would suit candidates who are creative and have an interest in video games. Additionally candidates need good literacy, numeracy and problem solving skills to be successful in this course.

What you will learn

During the award, you will gain a variety of knowledge and skills including the following:

What media assets are available and how to capture them
What makes a good game
How to modify media assets for your game
How to program a computer game
How to design a good game
How to test a game

The games that you are expected to produce will depend on the level. At the lowest level, the games will be simple; at the highest level they will be quite complex. Although you will be expected to write code, the media side is equally important since a good game comprises of more than just good code.