Level 3 Interactive and Software Development

Our Creative Media Production & Technology – Interactive & Software Development programme gives a broad grounding to prepare students for direct entry into the world of work or to progress to higher education in computer science, and related disciplines.

This programme focuses on computing from the perspective of software development and interactive media authoring; introducing underpinning concepts of hardware through their relationships to Software, Game and Web-Development.

Level 3 Units You Will Study:

• The Underpinning Principles of Computer Science
• The Fundamentals of Hardware, Networks and the Impact of Technology
• Principles of User Experience and HCI
• Principles of Digital Design for Interfaces
• Principles of Cybersecurity and Cryptography
• Software Development & Programming
• Web Development
• Games Development
• Digital Imaging and Animation for Games and UX
• Sound Design for Games and UX
• Research Skills
• Professional Practices in Computing

This course takes a holistic approach to software development, exploring an underpinning theoretical framework including:

• UX and HCI
• Design Principles
• Associated Media Theories e.g. Media Language, Semiotics, Audience
• Iterative Approaches to Software Development (SDLC)
• Contextual Studies e.g. Social Impact, Ethics of Digital Technologies

You will then apply the theoretical framework to inform your own practical skills and overall professional development.

This course is assessed through Formative Practice Based Projects, Individual Skills Development and Portfolio; the final grade is reached through a Final Major Project.

Assessment methods used include portfolios comprising research, practical skills development, observations, presentations, displays and written reports.

Trips, visits & guest speakers - Previous trips have included Industry Speakers at Yorkshire Games Festival, North East or North Digital Arts Festival, New York and Berlin. Visiting speakers are regularly invited to demonstrate their experiences, either in-person or through online presentations.

Level 3 – 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and Maths.

Students may progress to higher studies on undergraduate courses or degree apprenticeships; they may also consider entry-level roles in IT related fields.

Students would usually be interested in working in the following areas: software development / engineering e.g. full-stack development, front-end development; web development, games development, mobile applications, systems design and maintenance, networking, cybersecurity and penetration testing.

Some students may also consider areas in related fields, but in more design-based roles such as Digital Design or Content Production, or E-Sports.