FDSc Computer Games Design with Animation – Awarded by University of Staffordshire – Starts September 2025

Course Summary

This FDSc focuses on equipping you with the core skills needed to create engaging and immersive game experiences. You'll delve into the world of 3D character and environment creation, learning to design everything from the intricate details of a character model to the sprawling landscapes of a game world.

We'll cover the fundamental principles of game animation, exploring techniques that bring characters and objects to life within a game engine. You'll also get hands-on with game design principles and mechanics scripting, understanding how to implement game mechanics and build interactive levels.

Throughout the course, you'll work with industry-standard software and game engines like Unreal, ensuring you're learning the tools used by professionals. Our curriculum is designed to be highly practical, giving you the opportunity to create your own game assets, animations, and even collaborate on game projects with your peers.

In your first year, you'll be introduced to:
* Game asset creation: Learn the fundamentals of 3D modelling and texturing to create props and other elements for games using industry standard software Substance, Zbrush and 3DS Max. (We will even pay for your software licences to aid study at home.)
* Game design principles: Understand how to conceptualise and implement game mechanics and levels using scripting within a game engine.
* Mechanics Scripting: Get hands-on with the technical aspects of making your game ideas a reality.
* Introduction to game animation: Learn how to plan, apply, and integrate animations into a game engine.
* Project management for games: Develop essential skills in production methodology and project planning as you embark on your first independent project.

In your second year, you'll build upon these core skills and have the opportunity to explore more specialised areas. You'll be able to choose from a range of modules that could include:
* Advanced 3D modelling: Focus on creating detailed characters or hard-surface weapons.
* Art of lighting: Master how to use lighting to create atmosphere and mood within game environments.
* Cinematics for games: Learn to design and hand-craft real-time cinematic sequences.
* Advanced animation techniques: Dive deeper into hand-keyed animation or explore motion capture.
* Industry practices: Work alongside other students to take part in challenges simulating industry art tests..

This FDSc is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the fast-paced games industry, ensuring you graduate with relevant and up-to-date skills. While primarily focused on games, the animation skills you acquire are also highly transferable to other exciting fields such as film and virtual production.