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Christmas Closure
The College will be closed from 5:00pm on Thursday 18th December 2025, until Monday 5th January 2026, with students returning on Tuesday 6th January 2026. 
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Boston College 🎅🎄🎁

Course Summary

Step into the world of game creation with the Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC in Game Development. Designed for aspiring designers, programmers, artists and technical developers, this hands-on programme gives you the skills to turn ideas into playable realities. Over the course of the year, you’ll dive into the complete game development pipeline - from shaping original concepts and building gameplay mechanics to prototyping, testing and refining your own playable game experience. Whether you dream of designing immersive worlds or coding the next big hit, this course is your launchpad into the games industry.

What else do I need to know?

You will engage in practical, project-based learning that mirrors real studio workflows. You will:

  • Analyse games, genres and audiences
  • Generate and pitch concepts
  • Prototype and refine gameplay through iteration
  • Develop technical skills in game engines, scripting, art and level design
  • Build a professional portfolio including a final game project

Modules include:

  • Introduction to Game Design
  • Game Programming Fundamentals
  • Game Art & Asset Creation
  • Level Design and World Building
  • Professional Practice for the Games Industry
  • Game Project Management
  • Prototyping & Playtesting
  • Game Production Project

To study the Game Development HNC Level 4 you will need:

  • An MMM profile at Level 3 in a related subject (Creative Media, Art & Design, Computing, Digital Games), or an Access to Higher Education qualification, or A‑Level equivalent (minimum 80 new UCAS points).
  • GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, or Functional Skills Level 2, and/or IELTS 6 for non‑native speakers.

Relevant creative or technical experience and a portfolio will also be considered.

The Game Development HNC will take you 1 year to complete full‑time. You will typically attend college 2 days per week, along with independent study. A part‑time 2‑year route may also be available.

The Sport and Exercise Science HND Level 5 will cost £7100.

You can apply for a student loan to cover the costs of course fees. You may also be able to apply for various grants and loans to support your learning. Specific advice regarding student loans and other benefits can be obtained from www.gov.uk/student-finance.

Please note that all fees are subject to change and they may vary depending on personal circumstances, please enquire with the Registry Department for further information on 01205 365701 or email fees@boston.ac.uk.

Assessment is project-based and reflects industry practice, evaluating your contextual knowledge, ideas generation and development, technical knowledge and skills, professional practice and communication. You will produce playable prototypes, design documentation, concept art and assets, production logs, testing evidence, as well as pitches and presentations.

On completion, you can take the next step in your journey by progressing to a Level 5 HND in Game Development, moving into the second year of a related BA or BSc degree (subject to institution), or launching your career in junior roles such as QA tester, assistant designer, junior artist or indie developer.
Additional costs are optional and may include educational visits, software plugins or asset packs, and personal equipment such as tablets or additional storage.

How to Apply.

If you are an existing Boston College student or only applying to study at Boston College, fast track your application HERE

If you are not an existing Boston College student or you are applying to multiple centres, to apply for this course, just click ‘Apply for this course’ below.

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Christmas Closure

The College will be closed from 5:00pm on Thursday 18th December 2025, until Monday 5th January 2026, with students returning on Tuesday 6th January 2026

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Boston College 🎅🎄🎁

Christmas Card 2025