Access to Higher Education Diploma (Creative Industries: Computing and Gaming)

Ref. 400/1516/6

This Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to help you progress to university and pursue a new future career.

Earn up to 144 UCAS tariff points and prepare for degree-level study through coursework-based assessment, without the need for traditional exams.

Course Options

£1,199.00

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Course duration

This course is typically completed within one year. You should plan to dedicate around 10 hours per week to independent study alongside your coursework.

An assessment schedule will be provided at the start of your course, clearly outlining when assignments are released and their submission deadlines to help you stay organised.

Course outcome

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Creative Industries: Computing and Gaming, a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification that supports progression to university study.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be aged 19 or over. You will usually need GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, although equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths may also be accepted.

If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, our team will be happy to advise you.

Assessment

This course is assessed entirely through coursework, with no formal exams. You will complete a range of assignments, including written tasks, presentations and reports, designed to prepare you for degree-level study.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Creative Industries: Computing and Gaming is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university and build a career in the fast-growing digital and gaming industries.

Whether you’re returning to education or looking to turn your interest in technology and gaming into a professional pathway, this course provides a flexible and supportive route into higher education. You’ll develop a strong foundation in computing, alongside creative and technical skills relevant to game design and development.

Delivered online, the course allows you to study around your lifestyle while preparing for progression to university courses such as game design, computer science, software development and digital media.

This diploma combines computing knowledge with creative digital skills, alongside essential academic skills to prepare you for higher education.

You will complete a total of 60 credits, including graded subject units and ungraded study skills modules.

Core study skills modules

  • Preparing for higher education
  • Academic writing and research skills
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Communication in digital environments

Computing and gaming units

  • Programming principles and coding fundamentals
  • Game design and development concepts
  • Digital graphics and interactive media
  • User experience (UX) and interface design
  • Computer systems and software development
  • The gaming industry and professional practice

You’ll explore how games are designed, developed and experienced, while building both technical and creative skills relevant to the digital sector.

Flexible units to support your progression

Units can be adapted to align with your chosen university degree and its specific entry requirements. If you have a particular course or creative pathway in mind, our team can help tailor your studies to support your progression.

On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Creative Industries: Computing and Gaming), a Level 3 qualification awarded by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.

This qualification is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and is widely accepted by universities across the UK.

Flexible online learning

Study from anywhere in the UK with full access to your learning materials online. The course is designed to fit around your lifestyle, allowing you to balance study with work and other commitments.

This course supports progression to a wide range of university degrees and career pathways, including:

  • Game Design and Development
  • Computer ScienceSoftware Engineering
  • Digital Media and Interactive Design
  • Animation and Visual Effects

It can also lead to careers in game development, software development, digital design, UX/UI design and the wider tech and creative industries.

You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced tutors, including one-to-one sessions, personalised feedback and guidance throughout your course to help you develop both technical and academic skills.

There are no formal exams. Instead, you will be assessed through coursework such as essays, reports, case studies and presentations, helping you develop the skills needed for university-level study.

Do I need previous experience in computing or gaming?

No prior experience is required. The course is designed to introduce key concepts and build your skills step by step.

Yes, the course includes programming fundamentals and introduces key coding concepts used in computing and game development.

You can apply to a wide range of university degrees in computing, game design and digital media.

Assessment is based entirely on coursework, with a range of written and research-based assignments.

Most learners complete the course within 9–12 months, depending on their pace of study and availability.