How to become a computer games developer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could do a foundation degree or degree in:
- computer games technology
- computer games development
- computer science
- interactive media
- mathematics
For roles which include design as well as programme development, you could do a foundation degree or degree in a subject like:
- animation
- graphic design
You may have an advantage when you look for work if you do a degree that has a work placement.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could do a college course, which may lead onto more advanced qualifications or a higher apprenticeship, or help you to get a trainee position with a company. Courses include:
- A level in Computing
- T level in Digital Production, Design and Development
- Higher National Diploma in Creative Media Production Games Development
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and computing
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national certificate or higher national diploma
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Apprenticeship
You could do one of the following higher apprenticeships to get started in this role:
- software developer
- junior 2D artist
- junior vfx artist
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a quality assurance (QA) tester if you have plenty of experience of game playing.
You'll usually need an IT qualification or work experience. Employers will be interested in your talent and creativity. You may also find it helps to have A levels or a diploma in relevant subjects like computing or media production.
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Career tips
You can create a portfolio of work or online demo to highlight your skills to potential employers.
There is information on how to get started creating your own games at Into Games Start Creating.
Further information
You can get more advice about working in games development from ScreenSkills and Into Games.