Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
30-year-old artist Sam, inspired by the game industry, began his BA (Hons) Game Art degree with University Centre St Helens in September 2014.
Before deciding to study at University Centre St Helens, Sam visited a number of universities nationwide, but made the decision to study locally after hearing about the smaller class sizes and regular lecturer contact available at University Centre St Helens. The idea of being in a small group rather than a large lecture theatre was particularly appealing to Sam, as he felt that it would guarantee him more access to teaching staff and naturally, extra support.
As Sam progressed throughout his BA (Hons) Game Art degree, he acquired a variety of higher level skills in a range of modules, including level creation, high polygon modelling and game culture in context. Sam credits the small group sizes with allowing him to develop his skills at a rapid rate, meaning upon completion, he left University Centre St Helens with far more skills than a typical graduate. Explaining Sam said, “My time at University Centre St Helens was a unique experience. I had unrivalled access to industry experienced lecturers, who offered an amazing level of support. Lecturers were so flexible, and would sit with students every day, if required, to explain new concepts and support us in completing work to the absolute best of our ability. This allowed me to leave University Centre St Helens as a highly qualified, industry ready professional.”
Upon completion of his degree, Sam secured employment with Liverpool based games developer Atomicom, beginning his role as a game artist the day after his graduation ceremony.
Whilst working at Atomicom, Sam returned to University Centre St Helens, delivering guest lectures to 16-18 year old students on the level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Game Art. During this time, Sam discovered a natural talent for teaching and his guest lecturer role evolved into a teaching role with St Helens College for one day per week.
Keen to inspire the next generation of gamers and impressing highly experienced teaching staff at St Helens College, Sam will return for the new academic year in September 2018, teaching a range of modules on the level 3 Game Art course, whilst studying for his Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with University Centre St Helens on a part-time basis.
Sam’s advice for anyone considering the BA (Hons) Game Art is to ‘go for it!’ Adding, “If you have a passion for gaming and are prepared to work hard, you will be supported continuously by highly experienced, industry professionals. The lecturers have worked all over the world, on big titles and are keen to share their skills, knowledge and experience with their students. As a result of their experience, the lecturing team have a wealth of industry contacts, who regularly come into university to deliver guest lectures. They also attend the end of year show, providing students with the opportunity to exhibit to key players in the current industry and in many instances, secure employment roles from these experiences. I would highly recommend both the BA (Hons) Game Art and University Centre St Helens to anyone!”