Software: Students are required to use Unreal Engine, which is free to download. We also recommend that you purchase Photoshop/Illustrator (photography plan only) for the duration of your program. Free alternatives to Photoshop include GIMP/Inkscape.

Hardware: Students will need a dedicated graphics card and a computer that meets the minimum requirements for Unreal Engine and Photoshop. Please note: as the software we use is regularly updated, please check the specs against the latest available version at the time of enrollment.

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Age Minimum

The minimum age to be able to enroll in our career track programs is 16. We require parent or guardian consent during the enrollment process for applicants under 18.

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English Proficiency

We expect our students to have a good understanding of written and spoken English. There’s no specific ’level'; however, you must be able to understand video tutorials in English (no subtitles) and speak with your mentor in English during your live Q&A session.

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Computer Literacy

To be successful in this program, you will need basic computer skills and a computer that meets the minimum specifications (see next question).

Occasionally, it is possible to skip ahead and start studying in later terms. We highly recommend that most students do not skip ahead as each subject covers a tremendous amount of information and skills that will be used throughout the entire program (and will require some catching up in your own time if skipped).

Term one is still incredibly challenging and covers a lot of material. It includes over 25 hours of lecture videos and there are over a dozen assignments students need to complete. All of the future course material will build upon this foundation.

The program will cover some basic concepts, teach the basics of using the Unreal Engine, teach the fundamentals of system and level design, and teach you how to deconstruct games properly and design using a systemic approach. 

If you have not released an indie game or worked professionally to design PC/Console AAA games, we highly recommend you do not skip the first term. Even if you have designed mobile games, VR, or other genres or platforms of games, we do not recommend skipping it as the nuances are different in each platform.

If you want to be considered for skipping the first term, you must submit a portfolio to be reviewed and considered. The portfolio must include:

• Example Pitch Deck, Game Pitch, and a Game Design Document (GDD) for a major action, adventure, role-playing, shooter or other mainstream AAA PC/console game.
• Whitebox-level prototype in Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Example PLAYABLE level or game built in Unreal Engine or Unity. It must also be action, adventure, role-playing, shooter, or other mainstream AAA PC/console game.

This will ensure that you are familiar with the right materials, concepts, and tools to design new game concepts and build them in a game engine.

If you are unsure if your skills are sufficient, send us your portfolio when you apply, and we'll arrange for the department head to review it and, depending on the circumstances, a student interview.

This program gives you an excellent understanding of game design fundamentals. Depending on your level of commitment, skills, and portfolio pieces, you may be ready to start applying for entry-level artist positions such as:

• Game Designer
• Systems Designer
• Level Designer

Students also gain access to additional career services to support them in their job hunt. The Bletchley community is another great resource—you can network and find out about game development job vacancies through graduates and mentors already working in the industry.