Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Games Production


  • Start Date: 16/09/2025
  • Course is for: Adult
  • Course Length: 1 Year
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This programme is a Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) which could lead you directly into employment or onto the second year of study, on the Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND).

Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and cutting-edge techniques shaping interactive entertainment today. Our course covers everything from cultural contexts and 3D design to programming and project management. You’ll gain contextual knowledge essential for creating innovative, socially responsible games.

Bring your game ideas to life through our iterative development process. Explore, test, and refine your concepts with guidance from experienced tutors. Build your portfolio as you progress from paper prototypes to finished products using industry-standard tools like Unity, Unreal and 3Ds Max.

Develop your technical abilities to thrive as a game developer, programmer, or designer. Our facilities boast state-of-the-art labs kitted out with the latest hardware and software. You’ll also benefit from guest lectures by working professionals.

This challenging yet rewarding course will equip you with the practical skills and professional behaviours needed to launch your dream career. Join our vibrant community of creators and make your mark on the future of gaming. Apply today to turn your gaming passion into a profession!

Year 1 (HNC – Module A: Process & Practice) 

  • Contextual Knowledge: Dive deep into the historical milestones and genres that have shaped the gaming industry. Learn how disciplines, platforms, and uses have evolved over time.
  • Ideas Generation and Development: From initial research to polished game design, develop your ability to generate, storyboard, and test ideas effectively.
  • Technical Knowledge and Skill: Gain proficiency in 3D visual techniques, games engines, hardware and software essentials, and work management processes like quality assurance.
  • Professional Practice: Familiarise yourself with industry roles, ethics, project management essentials, and the nuances of effective communication. 

Software Utilised:

  • Photoshop
  • Unity
  • Unreal
  • Blender
  • 3DS Max
  • Substance

Year 2 (HND – Module B: Professional Creative Practice)

  • Contextual Knowledge: Understand the economic forces driving the games industry, informed by cultural and critical concepts.
  • Ideas Generation and Development: Master advanced techniques like concept development and critical reflection as you learn to develop your own briefs and proposals.
  • Technical Knowledge and Skill: Up your game with scripting, and visual production methods, ensuring the highest quality for your projects.
  • Professional Practice: Learn the ins and outs of stakeholder collaboration, project planning, career development, and strategic communication. 

Software Utilised:

  • Unreal
  • Unity Engine
  • 3Ds Max/Blender/Substance
  • Adobe Creative Suite
  • Advanced Scripting Tools

Assessment

All assessment is project based work in the form of assignment briefs. This might include written assignments, practical tasks and presentations.

Our HE room is kitted out in hi spec PCs designed to run the most update software, including Unreal, Unity and 3D modelling software.

£5,995

The fee shown is the fee you will pay per year of study. For example, if the course lasts for one year, this is the full fee you will pay.

If the course lasts for one or more years, this is the fee you’ll pay per year of study.

There may be additional costs for equipment, uniforms or study resources which we’ll let you know about at your course interview.

Many of our learners will apply for a Student Loan to help cover these fees.

Our friendly team can help you through this process and can be contacted via email at [email protected] or 0191 490 0300 or via Live Chat.

Please note: The fee shown may be subject to change.

If this happens, you will be contacted directly before the course is due to start.

All courses will run subject to sufficient student numbers.

You can apply through UCAS at www.ucas.com. The institution code for Gateshead College is G09 and the course code for this course is 0061.

At the end of the year, you can progress into employment or continue your studies and complete a Level 5 HND.

Requirements for the course are Merit at UAL or MMP at BTEC L3.

If you have not achieved these grades your applications are still welcome but will be subject to an interview and portfolio check. GCSE English and Maths at grade 9-4 (A*-C).

We welcome applications from mature students without these qualifications but with relevant experience.

An interview is required.

Staff have many years of teaching experience across the HE and FE sector.

Links with local businesses in the digital sector, including Proto and Infinity 27, mean we can adapt to changes in the industry and access professionals for their experience and advice.

This might include work experience opportunities, guest speakers or visits to games conferences.

School Leaver Course Guide 2025/2026

View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.

Gateshead College School Leavers guide for 2025 - 2026