How to become a computer games tester
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree course in:
- computing
- games design
- programming
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could take a college course, which may help you to get a job as a junior tester. Courses include:
- A level in Computing
- Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media
- T level in Digital Production, Design and Development
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and a creative subject
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
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Apprenticeship
You could complete a software tester higher apprenticeship.
This typically takes around 24 months to complete as a mix of learning on the job and study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 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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Direct Application
You could contact games companies about part-time or short-term work experience opportunities.
You'll need good technical skills and an in-depth understanding of different game platforms and quality assurance processes.
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Career tips
Some games companies release test versions of games for the public to try. Going to games events and joining industry forums are good ways to hear about these and other opportunities. They're also useful for making contacts with people working in the industry, who may help you to find work.
Further information
You'll find more advice about working in gaming from ScreenSkills and Into Games.
You can also find out more about working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.