Get ahead of the game; Take gaming to a higher level at Central.

COMPUTER games enthusiasts can turn their hobby into a career at Central College in Glasgow.

The college's new HNC Computing: Computer Games Development course offers training in programming, animation and graphic design, as well as the latest software platforms for the PlayStation 3 and the Nintendo Wii. This can then be applied across a wide range of training and business decision-making models.

The college's computing department offer industry-specific courses from Access through to HND level.

Former student Ricky Mason, 22, from Glasgow, secured a job as a business support specialist with computer giant Dell just weeks after completing an HND in Software Development last summer.

He said: "I accepted the job pretty much straightaway after finishing the course at Central College.

"Key to getting it was the fact that my course covered up-to-date, valuable industry certifications, such as Microsoft Certified Professional."

Jim Spry, computing section leader at the college, said: "Our computing courses are designed to provide the next generation of fresh talent with the knowledge and skills to be successful in this constantly evolving industry."

For further information about computing courses at Central College, call 0141 552 3941 or e-mail [e-mail]

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EQUIPPED FOR THE JOB: Ricky Mason secured a position with Dell after completing his computing course at Central College