HNC Game Development
Key Information
- Course Title: Game Development
- Award: Higher National Certificate
- Level: 4
- Awarding Body: Pearson
- UCAS Code: 354G
- Start Dates: September, January, and April
- Study Mode: Full-time (1 year)
- Fees: £6,355
- Delivery: Weekdays, weekends or evenings
Course Overview
The Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Game Development helps you develop as a professional and self-reflecting individual, building the skills needed to meet the demands of employers in the games industry.
You gain a broad introduction to game design and development, learning core skills through practical work, research, and real-world scenarios. As you study, you strengthen important transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. By the end of Level 4, you have a solid understanding of the basic concepts of game development and are prepared either to continue to Level 5 or to enter entry-level roles with some responsibility.
Key objectives of the HNC in Game Development:
- To open pathways for career progression in your chosen field.
- To prepare you for a variety of entry-level roles like game tester (QA), junior developer, or you can continue studying to the HND to gain more advanced skills.
- To build your understanding of culturally diverse organisations, including cross-cultural dynamics, diversity, and workplace values.
- To provide clear routes for employment or progression to higher-level qualifications such as the Higher National Diploma (HND) or a related game development degree.
Teaching
Our teaching approach is interactive, engaging, and professionally focused. You’ll participate in a mix of on-campus and live online lectures, tutorials, and academic support sessions, supported by comprehensive online learning materials including lecture notes, recordings, presentations, and handouts. You’ll also have access to both our on-campus and digital libraries.
Independent learning is an important part of your experience. You’ll conduct research, explore academic sources, and complete projects, reports, and presentations to deepen your understanding and practical skills.
Assessment
Assessment is primarily through coursework and practical assignments designed to reflect real-world business tasks. You’ll work both independently and collaboratively on a variety of projects, such as essays, reports, group and individual projects, research or consultancy work, presentations, and digital design tasks.
This practical, applied approach ensures you graduate with both the knowledge and the confidence to succeed in your chosen business career or continue your academic journey.
Modules
Careers
The Pearson Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Game Development gives you basic skills in coding, design, and creating simple games. After completing it, you can apply for entry-level roles like game tester (QA), junior developer, or you can continue studying to the HND to gain more advanced skills.
Entry and Visa Requirements
Entry Requirements
You should hold at least one of the following:
- BTEC Level 3 qualification in Art and Design or Media
- A-Level(s) with strong results in a relevant subject
- Access to Higher Education Diploma from a recognised institution
- Foundation Diploma
- UK or International equivalent of any of the above.
Additional Requirements
You should also hold at least one of the following:
- Five GCSEs at grade C / 4 or above, including Maths and English Language or equivalent
- Functional Skills Level 2 (Maths and English)
- IELTS 5.5 or CEFR B2 (or equivalent).
If you do not hold any of the above, you will be required to successfully complete an English and/or Maths test at The London College.
If You Don’t Meet the Entry Requirements
You may still be considered for entry if you can demonstrate strong communication and learning skills, relevant knowledge, work experience, and motivation to succeed - supported by a minimum of one year UK work experience relevant to the course applied for.
If you do not hold GCSE Maths and English (or an equivalent qualification), you will be required to complete an English and/or Maths test at The London College as part of the entry process.
Immigration / Visa Requirements
You must hold one of the following:
- UK or Irish citizenship
- EU Settled or Pre-Settled Status
- Non-EU passport with ILR, LLR, or DLR
- Valid work visa (additional residency and immigration requirements apply)
- Refugee status, or be the child or spouse of someone with refugee status
- Humanitarian Protection.
Other exceptional circumstances may apply. Please contact us for further details.