Academic Partnerships Template
Plymouth University
Academic Partnerships
Cornwall College
Camborne
Programme Quality
Handbook for
HNC/D Games Design for Industry
2014 – 15
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Contents
1.
Welcome and Introduction to Games Design for Industry........................................................................ 3
2.
Programme Specification ........................................................................................................................... 4
3.
Module Records ....................................................................................................................................... 27
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1. Welcome and Introduction to Games Design for Industry.
Welcome to the HNC/D Games Design for Industry.
The HNC/D Games Design for Industry course has been developed in order to meet the requirements of one of
the fastest growing, dynamic and entrepreneurial sectors in the creative industries. This is a skills based course
that provides the practical expertise needed for jobs in Games Design, whether you want to be an animator,
modeller or developer. This challenging programme focuses on developing your core artistic and technical skills
to enable you to create and build your own games for a variety of platforms. The course was developed from
input from leading industry professionals to ensure that your experience is relevant and realistic and
incorporates all the latest techniques and skills with a slant towards the creation of game content and assets.
Our innovative curriculum encourages creativity, giving you the expertise to succeed in a fast paced industry by
maximising both employability and entrepreneurial skills as it is designed to give you a comprehensive
understanding of the techniques and skills needed by the games industry. Communications between the games
/animation industry and this course are extremely important and developments in the industry and knowledge
gained by staff in their own practice are passed down to the students to inform theirs. This course is at the
cutting edge of games design.
From the outset, through formal lectures, practical workshops, master-classes and industry based assignments;
you will be encouraged to explore the numerous aspects of digital gaming within a combined creative and
technical framework. You will gain an understanding of the broad areas of games development, Ludology,
concept artwork, 3D modelling and animation, level design, history, contextual and social issues, together with
an overview of the more technical and creative aspects of the games design pipeline.
Practical skills form the basis of the course as well as problem solving - with a strong focus on 3D modelling and
animation, concept work, 2D animation and drawing. This HNC/D concentrates mainly on the production of art
related assets for computer games, whilst developing professional skills in level design, concept development,
project management and entrepreneurship. You will learn traditional core skills alongside industry standard
practice in modelling, texturing and animation. This will be encouraged by the use of real time engines to
demonstrate your work within a gaming context. As in industry, you'll use your skills collaboratively as you will
create game content in teams as well as individually.
You will be encouraged to work creatively and professionally to design and communicate concepts through
visuals, prototypes, 3D/2D game assets, documentation and presentations. Work related experience is also a
very important part of the study programme and students are expected to be involved in competitions and live
briefs.
From the start you will work on real-world tasks and create real products in order to establish a strong
portfolio, web presence and show reel to take you into future employment.
At its core the HNC/D Games Design for Industry is a vision of undergraduate education that offers you a
sustained and consistent emphasis on your identity as a learner and a media practitioner through the seamless
integration of professional development with student learning.
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The course has been designed with advice from local, regional and national employers and practitioners in the
broad fields of media production. The subsequent development of the course has been guided by two key
drivers


The need for innovative delivery of higher education within a vocational context
Industry sector skills gaps: presentation, networking skills, negotiating skills needed for client and contract
management and developing business networks and partnerships, selling skills/marketing and PR which are
a particular challenge for micro businesses and practitioners.
These key drivers have been answered in their broadest sense by the innovative content of the curriculum and
the form of learning that focuses on the professional identity of the individual student. The expectation of the
development of working production companies will ensure that students are engaging with peers and external
agencies throughout the whole course. This interaction will take place at points which are appropriate for you
and your professional practice. The teaching and learning schedule and assessment plan enables students to be
proactive in their learning and stresses presentation and negotiation skills.
This programme has been designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge base required to work in
your chosen specialism or other graduate opportunities. It is also a platform from which you can undertake
additional vocational and academic qualifications.
This Programme Quality handbook contains important information including:
 The approved programme specification
 Module records
Note: the information in this handbook should be read in conjunction with the current edition of the
College Student handbook available at (college to add link) which contains student support based
information on issues such as finance and studying at HE along with the University’s Student Handbook https://www1.plymouth.ac.uk/studenthandbook and your Teaching, Learning and Assessment Handbook
available on your programme virtual learning environment.
2. Programme Specification
On the following pages you will find the specification for your programme; this provides a detailed overview of
the programme as a whole. It explains what you will learn and how you will be assessed throughout the two
stages of your HNC or HND. The Programme Learning Outcomes Map specifies the knowledge and skills you will
develop at each stage of your HNC or HND.
PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
Awarding Institution:
Teaching Institution:
Accrediting Body:
Final Award:
Intermediate Awards:
Programme Title:
UCAS Code:
Benchmarks:
Date of Approval:
University of Plymouth
Cornwall College
N/A
HND Games Design for Industry
HNC Games Design for Industry
HND Games Design for Industry
HND 026I
Informed by QAA and relevant FHEQ subject benchmark(s) in Art and Design.
May 2012
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Admissions Criteria:
Qualification(s) required for entry to the HND
Comments
Candidates must have at Level 2:
Key Skills requirement/Higher Level Diploma
Level 2 Communication
and/or
GCSEs required at Grade C and above
Normally 4 x GCSEs, to include an Arts subject and English
Plus at least one of the following Level 3 qualifications:
A Levels required:
Advanced Level Diploma
BTEC National Certificate/Diploma
HNC
VDA: AGNVQ, AVCE, AVS
Access to HE or Year 0 provision
International Baccalaureate
Irish/Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers
Work Experience
Other non-standard awards or experiences
APEL/APCL possibilities
Interview/portfolio requirements
Independent Safeguarding Agency (ISA) / Criminal
Record Bureau (CRB) clearance required
Minimum of 1 relevant subject (media studies, IT,
photography, art, graphic design) to a minimum of 120 UCAS
points
Media
Pass in Media Production, Graphic Design or IT
Pass in any relevant media/ IT based subject
Advanced in Media
In creative or IT subject
24 points required
1 Pass in an Media or Design based subject
Mature students without formal qualifications will be
considered by portfolio of relevant production work
Experience in media production, accompanied by portfolio of
recent work
This must be applied for before the start of the programme.
Please refer to University of Plymouth Academic regulations
www.plymouth.ac.uk
Students are expected to attend an interview where possible.
Interviewees should bring a portfolio of their work – Eportfolios are acceptable for students unable to attend
personally.
Not initially. However it may be required for some workbased learning placements.
Brief Description of the Programme:
The HND Games Design for Industry will enable students to develop the breadth and range of skills required to
work within the games development industry in terms of both practical, creative and theoretical understanding
of a fast changing field. The games industry is one of the UK's largest exporters and our intention is to equip
students with up to date skills for this market.
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Aims of the Programme:
The Programme aims to:
1. Provide an educational foundation for a variety of technical, creative and managerial careers in the computer
games design and development industry
2. Provide an educational foundation for progression to a higher level course within games design or related
subject area
3. Develop the skills, knowledge and understanding that will enable learners to make an immediate
contribution in employment within the computer games design and development industry
4. Develop the skills, knowledge and understanding as required for careers in computer games design and
development
5. Develop the skills and personal qualities necessary for success in professional life within the computer games
design and development industry
Programme Intended Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this programme the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate skills in computer games design and development
2. Effectively communicate using written and oral presentation
3. Exercise responsible scholarship
4. Determine how to locate relevant information; sort, analyse and utilise that information
5. Work in teams and appreciate the importance of peer contribution within computer games design and
development
Distinctive Features of the HND

Students are encouraged to recognise themselves as working practitioners in small scale production
companies.

The flexibility within the curriculum enables students to develop a highly individualised professional
identity.
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Teaching methods and assessments
A: Development of Knowledge
and Understanding
By the end of the programme the student will be able
to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
The major theories of the discipline(s) and an
awareness of a variety of ideas, contexts and
frameworks.
The wider social and environmental implications of
area(s) of study and is able to debate issues in relation
to more general ethical perspectives.
The reciprocal relationship between creative output
and the wider socio/cultural matrix.
The responsibilities of the practitioner.
A preparedness to experiment.
NB: Benchmark References
4.2, 4.3, 4.4.1, 4.4.4, 4.4.5
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
B: Cognitive and Intellectual Skills
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
By the end of the programme the student will be able
to:
Critique rival theories and frameworks.
Analyse and synthesise.
Intelligently apply appropriate principles in assessing
policy or practice.
Demonstrate problem solving and research skills.
Take appropriate risks and be able to evaluate the
outcomes of experimentation.
Develop an appreciation between medium and
message.
Primary
 Skills workshops
 Tutorial/seminar discussions
 Feedback via coursework assessment process
(essays etc)
NB: Benchmark References
3.5, 3.11, 4.2, 4.3
Assessment
 Essays/projects/dissertations
 Coursework/ groupwork on practical application
questions
 Portfolio
 Final production pieces





Primary
Lectures and tutorials
Skills workshops
Directed independent study
Learning from work experience



Secondary
Case studies
Problem-solving exercises
Assessment
Key knowledge and understanding is assessed via a
combination of essays, presentations, and seminar
performances.
Secondary
For example:
 Policy and practice analysis in portfolios and
tutorials
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C: Key Transferable Skills
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
By the end of the programme the student will be able
to:
Interact effectively within a team / learning group.
Manage learning using resources for the discipline.
Communicate effectively in a manner appropriate to
the discipline (in standard English oral, written, using
ICT).
Take responsibility for own learning with minimum
direction.
Manage information with the ability to select
appropriate data from a range of sources and
develop appropriate research strategies
Primary
 Library and other research exercises
 Group work awareness and practice
 Computer-based learning and assessment
NB: Benchmark References
3.8, 4.4.1, 4.4.4
Assessment
 Coursework of all types
 Production portfolios
 Assessed discussions
 Group work assessments
D: Employment Related Skills
By the end of the programme the student will be able
to:
 Recognise strengths and areas for
improvement
 Present ideas confidently to a variety of
audiences
 Work to deadlines
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
E: Practical Skills
By the end of the programme the student will be able
to:
 Demonstrate a high level of discipline specific
skills
 Present ideas appropriate to the context and
audience
 Work effectively in groups
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
NB: Benchmark References
5.4.2, 4.4.3, 4.4.4, 3.8
Assessment
 Project work
 Competence in a range of communication
techniques
Secondary
 Class and seminar interactions and feedback




Projects
Designated tasks
Lectures and tutorials
Learning from work
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Learning Outcomes Maps for HND Games Design for Industry at HE Levels 4 and 5
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CORC2056
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CORC2056
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CORC2056
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CORC2056
CORC2056
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PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION
Awarding Institution:
Teaching Institution:
Accrediting Body:
Final Award:
Intermediate Awards:
Programme Title:
UCAS Code:
Benchmarks:
University of Plymouth
Cornwall College
N/A
HNC Games Design for Industry
N/A
HNC Games Design for Industry
HNC 02PI
Informed by QAA and relevant FHEQ subject benchmark(s) in Art and Design.
Date of Approval:
May 2012
Admissions Criteria:
Qualification(s) required for entry to the HND
Comments
Candidates must have at Level 2:
Key Skills requirement/Higher Level Diploma
Level 2 Communication
and/or
GCSEs required at Grade C and above
Normally 4 x GCSEs, to include an Arts subject and English
Plus at least one of the following Level 3 qualifications:
A Levels required:
Advanced Level Diploma
BTEC National Certificate/Diploma
HNC
VDA: AGNVQ, AVCE, AVS
Access to HE or Year 0 provision
International Baccalaureate
Irish/Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers
Work Experience
Other non-standard awards or experiences
APEL/APCL possibilities
Interview/portfolio requirements
Independent Safeguarding Agency (ISA) / Criminal
Record Bureau (CRB) clearance required
Minimum of 1 relevant subject (media studies, IT,
photography, art, graphic design) to a minimum of 120 UCAS
points
Media
Pass in Media Production, Graphic Design or IT
Pass in any relevant media/ IT based subject
Advanced in Media
In creative or IT subject
24 points required
1 Pass in an Media or Design based subject
Mature students without formal qualifications will be
considered by portfolio of relevant production work
Experience in media production, accompanied by portfolio of
recent work
This must be applied for before the start of the programme.
Please refer to University of Plymouth Academic regulations
www.plymouth.ac.uk
Students are expected to attend an interview where possible.
Interviewees should bring a portfolio of their work – Eportfolios are acceptable for students unable to attend
personally.
Not initially. However it may be required for some workbased learning placements.
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Brief Description of the Programme:
The HNC Games Design for Industry will enable students to develop the breadth and range of skills required to
work within the games development industry in terms of both practical, creative and theoretical understanding
of a fast changing field through engagement in level 4 learning. The games industry is one of the UK's largest
exporters and our intention is to equip students with up to date skills for this market. Successful completion on
the HNC will enable progression to the HND in Games Design for Industry.
Aims of the Programme:
The Programme aims to:
1. Enables learners to develop the skills required for a variety of technical, creative and managerial careers in
the computer games design and development industry
1. 2.Provide an educational foundation for progression to a level 5 course within games design or related
subject area
2. 3.Encourage the development of the skills, knowledge and understanding that will enable learners to make
a contribution in employment within the computer games design and development industry
3. 4.Develop the skills and personal qualities necessary for success in professional life within the computer
games design and development industry
Programme Intended Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this programme the student will be able to:
1. 1.Develop skills in computer games design and development
2. Satisfactorily communicate using written and oral presentation
3. 3.Exercise responsible scholarship
4. 4.Determine how to locate relevant information; sort, analyse and utilise that information
5. 5.Work in teams and appreciate the importance of peer contribution within computer games design and
development
Distinctive Features of the HNC



Provides underpinning knowledge required for future study at level 5 within a vocationally relevant context
Students are encouraged to recognise themselves as working practitioners in small scale production
companies.
The flexibility within the curriculum enables students to develop a highly individualised professional
identity.
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Teaching Methods and Assessments
A: Development of Knowledge
and Understanding
By the end of the programme the student will be able to
demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
The major theories of the discipline(s) and an awareness of
a variety of ideas, contexts and frameworks.
The wider social and environmental implications of area(s)
of study and is able to debate issues in relation to more
general ethical perspectives.
The reciprocal relationship between creative output and
the wider socio/cultural matrix.
The responsibilities of the practitioner.
A preparedness to experiment.
NB: Benchmark References
4.2, 4.3, 4.4.1, 4.4.4, 4.4.5
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
B: Cognitive and Intellectual Skills
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
Critique rival theories and frameworks.
Analyse and synthesise.
Intelligently apply appropriate principles in assessing policy
or practice.
Demonstrate problem solving and research skills.
Take appropriate risks and be able to evaluate the
outcomes of experimentation.
Develop an appreciation between medium and message.
Primary
 Skills workshops
 Tutorial/seminar discussions
 Feedback via coursework assessment process
(essays etc)
NB: Benchmark References
3.5, 3.11, 4.2, 4.3
Assessment
 Essays/projects/dissertations
 Coursework/ groupwork on practical
application questions
 Portfolio
 Final production pieces
C: Key Transferable Skills
By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
Interact effectively within a team / learning group.
Manage learning using resources for the discipline.
Communicate effectively in a manner appropriate to the
discipline (in standard English oral, written, using ICT).
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
Primary
 Library and other research exercises
 Group work awareness and practice
 Computer-based learning and assessment
Primary
 Lectures and tutorials
 Skills workshops
 Directed independent study
 Learning from work experience
Secondary
 Case studies
 Problem-solving exercises
Assessment
Key knowledge and understanding is assessed via
a combination of essays, presentations, and
seminar performances.
Secondary
For example:
 Policy and practice analysis in portfolios and
tutorials
Secondary
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Take responsibility for own learning with minimum
direction.
Manage information with the ability to select appropriate
data from a range of sources and develop appropriate
research strategies
NB: Benchmark References
3.8, 4.4.1, 4.4.4

D: Employment Related Skills
By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
 Recognise strengths and areas for improvement
 Present ideas confidently to a variety of audiences
 Work to deadlines
 Locate opportunities for practice
 Work effectively in groups
 Demonstrate the application of knowledge to varying
contexts
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
E: Practical Skills
By the end of the programme the student will be able to:
 Demonstrate a high level of discipline specific skills
 Present ideas appropriate to the context and audience
 Work effectively in groups
Learning and Teaching Strategy/Method
NB: Benchmark References
5.4.2, 4.4.3, 4.4.4, 3.8
Assessment
 Project work
 Competence in a range of communication
techniques
Class and seminar interactions and feedback
Assessment
 Coursework of all types
 Production portfolios
 Assessed discussions
 Group work assessments




Projects
Designated tasks
Lectures and tutorials
Learning from work
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Programme Structure Diagrams
College: Cornwall College
Year: 2014/2015
PU Course Code: 4540
Programme: HND Games Design for Industry
Mode of Attendance: Full Time
Total Credits: 240
Stage 1
Module
Code
CORC1072
CORC1073
CORC1074
CORC1076
CORC1077
CORC1078
Module Title
Computer Games Studies and Research
Pre Production Design and Computer
Game Concept Art
2D Digital Graphics and Texturing for
Computer Games
3D Modelling and Animation for
Computer Games
Animation Principles
3D Computer Games Engines and Asset
Creation
No. of
Credits
20
Core /
Optional
Core
20
Core
20
Core
20
20
Core
Core
20
Core
No. of
Credits
20
20
Core /
Optional
Core
Core
20
Core
20
Core
20
20
Core
Core
Stage 2
Module
Code
CORC2056
CORC2057
CORC2060
CORC2061
CORC2062
CORC2064
Module Title
Games Design and Development Project
Subject Specialism Project
3D Cut Sequence Design and Digital Audio
for Games
3D Character Animation and Motion
Capture for Computer Games
Level Design and Production for
Computer Games
Professional Practice
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College: Cornwall College
Year: 2014/2015
PU Course Code: 4539
Programme: HNC Games Design for Industry
Mode of Attendance: Full Time
Total Credits: 120
Stage 1
Module
Code
CORC1072
CORC1073
CORC1074
CORC1076
CORC1077
CORC1078
Module Title
Computer Games Studies and Research
Pre-Production Design and Computer
Game Concept Art
2D Digital Graphics and Texturing for
Computer Games
3D Modelling and Animation for
Computer Games
Animation Principles
3D Computer Games Engines and Asset
Creation
No. of
Credits
20
Core /
Optional
Core
20
Core
20
Core
20
Core
20
20
Core
Core
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3. Module Records
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