College will launch degree in games art

Warwickshire College will launch a foundation degree in games art in September, teaching skills from life drawing to 3D modelling and animation.

Major Leamington firms Blitz Games Studio, Kwalee, Pixel Bullies and Supersonic Software have been among those advising on modules, with further help from SEGA Europe, Southam-based Codemasters and Fish In A Bottle.

The course uses industry standard packages such as 3D Studio Max, Mudbox and Adobe Creative Suite and introduces students to advanced 3D animation and life drawing with tutors who have taught industry experts.

Course tutor Mike Irvine said: “Leamington is the hub of the British games industry, so where better to study games art with the major names on your doorstep?”

Firms will be involved with students’ projects. Harry Gladwin-Geoghegan, R&D technical animator at Blitz Games Studios, took Warwickshire College’s BTEC Media (Games Development) course before a degree in 3D digital animation. He said: “It will be a wonderful opportunity for us to provide input to upcoming students.”

Peter Williamson from Supersonic Software said “Warwickshire is already a hotbed of game development talent so it’s great to see such a positive course tailored to our industry offered locally. We hope our industry and the college can work together to develop the next generation of talent.”

Kwalee artist Jay Lytwynenko said: “We are confident this course will spawn some exceptional talent. We are very impressed with the course’s commitment to communicate and interact with the industry, which should ensure students have the opportunity to learn the important skills they will need to enter a rewarding career in games development.”

Applicants can apply through UCAS or direct to the college.