This module introduces students to 3D modelling for games, focusing on foundational techniques and industry-standard software. Students will develop their skills in modelling and texturing, applying increasingly advanced methods to create game-ready objects.

Assessment Component 1 a portfolio of work weighted at 70% consisting of:

For this assessment, students will produce 3–5 assets demonstrating their knowledge and understanding of 3D production processes and development techniques acquired through demonstrations, tutorials, lectures, seminars, and workshops. Students will apply:

* 3D modelling skills in topology, unwrapping, and texturing using professional pipelines.
* Solve challenges in modelling, texturing, and asset optimisation.

Assessment Component 2 Reflective Document weighted at 30% consisting of:

For this assessment, students will produce a reflective document, covering both their development process and final 3–5 assets. Students will:

* Present development work and final assets clearly using industry-standard rendering and presentation techniques.
* Communicate production processes, challenges, and outcomes throughout the project.
* Reflect on and compare assets to reference imagery, critically assessing alignment with project goals.

Within the module, you will develop an understanding of workflows and processes related to 3D modelling development. This will include, but is not limited to, a selection of key topics such as:

* Box, spline, planar, and subdivision modelling techniques.
* UVW unwrapping and mapping.
* PBR material and shader development.
* Texture creation, manipulation, and optimisation for real-time engines.
* Cameras, lighting, and rendering techniques.
* Basic rigging and weight painting.
* Importing, exporting, and optimising for game engines.
* Modular design and asset reuse.

1. Develop and apply foundational 3D modelling skills in topology, unwrapping, and texturing using industry production pipelines and digital technologies.

Programme Learning Outcome: Application & problem-solving, Digital literacy

2. Demonstrate understanding of 3D production principles, including topology, unwrapping, texturing, and rendering, within professional workflows.

Programme Learning Outcome: Knowledge & understanding

3. Communicate the planning and development process undertaken in the creation of 3D assets

Programme Learning Outcome: Communication

4. Reflect on and compare final assets to reference imagery, assessing the alignment with project goals.

Programme Learning Outcome: Reflection

Scheduled sessions will typically include lectures introducing core concepts, alongside workshops where students apply techniques, participate in guided discussions, and undertake problem-solving and peer-learning activities.

Lecture sessions focus on theory, methodology and good practice, while workshop and development sessions provide individual guidance, practical demonstrations and support in applying artistic and technical principles.

Independent study will involve recommended reading, research tasks, and ongoing development of project work supported by digital resources and forum feedback.

Teaching activities are designed to mirror professional art-department feedback loops, enabling students to experience iterative development and critique similar to industry practice.

Software & Tools

This list is not limited to:

* Digital Sculpting Tools
* 3D DCC tools
* 3D Material Creation Tools
* Sketchbooks, pencils, charcoal and other traditional media
* Digital Painting Software
* Wacom Tablets
* Version control
* Video editing software
* Digital Academy Forum
* Digital Academy Upload System
* Data Projection Resource

DigitalSTE. (n.d.). 3D Modeling Techniques for 3ds Max [YouTube]. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejJbm3LsvK4&list=PLZtL3Uc3M4XvSlRcVeL8NcnlJg-IDOS2w[Accessed 20 November 2025].

Blender Guru. (2020). The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Blender. [online] Available at: https://www.blenderguru.com/tutorials/the-ultimate-beginners-guide [Accessed 20 November 2025].

CG Cookie. (n.d.). Introduction to 3D Modeling in Blender. [online] Available at: https://cgcookie.com/lesson/introduction-to-3d-modeling [Accessed 20 November 2025].

Autodesk. (n.d.). Autodesk 3ds Max Tutorials [YouTube]. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/@Autodesk3dsMax [Accessed 20 November 2025].

Autodesk. (n.d.). Autodesk Maya Tutorials [YouTube]. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/@Autodesk_Maya [Accessed 20 November 2025].

This module will lay the groundwork for your journey into 3D modelling. You will gain foundational skills in 3D modelling, texturing, and material creation, providing you with the knowledge needed to develop and refine basic 3D models for use in various projects.