You’ll start by building a strong base in C++ programming, with mathematics and physics for game development, as well as gaining skills in console hardware architecture and game design. As you progress through the degree you’ll use different graphics libraries and engines to make 2D and 3D games.
You’ll develop specialist skills in physical computing, virtual reality and artificial intelligence while becoming proficient in a range of relevant programming and scripting languages.
Each year there are core modules on this course that enable artists and programmers to work together and achieve common goals – designing and producing innovative games. This aspect of the student experience is highly commended by our games industry partner TIGA and our industry steering group, as it mimics professional practice.
We actively encourage you to engage in public competitions and gaming events such as gamejams, and we hold an annual Summer Show where students at all levels have the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider professional audience.
Visit our creative technology blog to see some fantastic work from our students.
Assessment
You will be assessed primarily by coursework assignments. On-going assessments are also taken during set (timetabled) classroom times.
Assessments will include peer review, opportunities
for Quality Assurance (QA), detailed feedback and guidance from tutors.
Coursework, presentations and group work will require you to:
- meet programming briefs
- demonstrate an understanding of work flow and project management
- demonstrate good communication skills
- write and present reports on development
- demonstrate subject knowledge and research techniques.
The proposed course assessment schedule for this new degree will conform to the agreed assessment tariff.
Professional accreditation
The School of Computing and Digital Media (SCDM) is a member of the games industry body TIGA. An aim of this new degree is to improve
the potential for possible submission for future TIGA accreditation.
Modular structure
All are 30-credit modules, unless otherwise stated.
Year 1:
- Game Design
- 3D Modelling
- 2D Game Programming
- Computer Gaming Hardware Architectures
Year 2
- Modelling and Texturing
- Digital Toy Design
- Game Portfolio
- C++ Programming for Games
Year 3
- Project
- Advanced Scripting for Graphics and Games (15 credit)
- Work Related Learning II (15 credit)
- Prototype Development
- Artificial Intelligence (15 credit)
- AI for Games (15 credit)
After the course
For programmers, the degree opens up many potential career paths in the gaming and entertainment sector. You could work in game development as a programmer, level designer or game tester, or work with high-tech companies in the public and private sectors.
Previous graduates have joined companies such as:
- Rare
- Rocksteady
- Media Molecule
- Sky
- BBC
- ITV
- Football Superstars
- Sega
- Lionheart
- Sports Interactive
Graduates have also started their own businesses.
