Computer Games (Art)

During your studies you will be taught how to develop game ready assets for computer games and real-time simulations. A key focus is on guiding you on how to successfully combine the traditional and technical skills required to produce computer games art. The work you create in each module contributes to your overall portfolio.

Students benefit from free access to our dedicated high-spec computer games lab where they can make use of industry-standard software, including Unreal Engine 5, Autodesk Maya, Autodesk 3ds Max, Adobe Suite (including Adobe Substance Painter, Adobe Substance Designer and Photoshop), Marvelous Designer and Maxon ZBrush.

Using these facilities, students build up a varied portfolio of creative work. From character models and level design to environment rendering and textures, this portfolio helps students to demonstrate their competencies to potential employers.

At Solent, our excellent industry links play a key part in student development, and past students have had the opportunity to work on live briefs for real clients. In addition, our academic team is formed of expert professionals who have wide-ranging experience in the gaming industry.

If you’re looking to study our computer games (art) degree but don’t have the relevant qualifications or experience, the digital arts foundation year will help you develop the core skills

Who is this course for?
This degree is for students who want to create computer games artwork. Applicants should have a portfolio of traditional or digital artwork, and some awareness of the game art production processes. It would be advantageous to have some experience of 3D modelling software and/or a game engine. The course is suited to applicants who are interested in the intersection of artwork with technology.

What does this course lead to?
A key focus of this degree is on providing skills and opportunities to build a game art portfolio suitable for gaining employment. Students are encouraged to research and engage with current production techniques, and to consider ways in which they can futureproof their skillsets.

These skills will help students build portfolios suitable for gaining entry level roles for careers as; Environment Artists, Prop Artists, Character Artists, Technical Artists and Game Animators.

Many of the skills learned on the BA (Hons) Computer Games (Art) degree are also transferable to related fields, such as Arch Viz, VFX, CGI and VR/AR.

Course Modules

YEAR ONE
CORE MODULES

Game Studio 1
Game Ready Art
Organic Art
3D Art 101

YEAR TWO
CORE MODULES

Painted Assets
Game Studio 2
Realising Game Worlds

OPTIONAL MODULES - Please note: Not all optional modules are guaranteed to run each year.

The Creature Shop
Capture Technologies
Thinking Procedurally
Creature and Character

FINAL YEAR
CORE MODULES

Game Studio 4
Project Sprints
Final Major Project

OPTIONAL MODULES - Please note: Not all optional modules are guaranteed to run each year.

Creature and Character
Capture Technologies
The Creature Shop
Thinking Procedurally

You may be assessed at the end of each block by:
Coursework
Portfolios
Visual reports
Essays
Showreels
Individual presentations
Group presentations
Reflective accounts
Project work
As part of this course, you will study one module at a time, giving you the chance to build a deeper understanding and see the results of your hard work more quickly. With regular assessments and feedback, rather than exams all at once, you’ll also benefit from improved focus, and a more manageable workload.