Bachelor of Software Engineering (Game Programming)

Become a highly sought-after programmer and breathe life into unimagined worlds. You'll collaborate with game artists to engineer immersive environments and build captivating gaming experiences. 

Admission Requirements

• Minimum qualification of NCEA University Entrance or equivalent, such as CIE or IB University Entrance, or, level 4 or higher Qualification from a related discipline (not required for students 20+).

Plus, you will need to have fulfilled the following credit requirements:

• 28 NCEA credits at Level 3, in a range of the following subjects: Mathematics, Physics, Computing and Technology. *Note: At this time, students completing NCEA Level 3 will only require 24 credits in the above subjects. Learn more about NCEA and UE here.

Portfolio Requirements

• A portfolio is not required if you are applying for Game Programming (Bachelor of Software Engineering).
• Study On Campus or Online

What is the Bachelor of Software Engineering - Game Programming?
Breathe life into unimagined worlds.

• Learn a range of programming languages from C++ to Swift, enabling you to succeed in the games industry and beyond. Our teaching style not only gives you the knowledge of tools, but the kit to work in a team, an essential but overlooked necessity. Hone your abilities in interviewing, presenting and communicating while you craft a masterpiece with your small team. Be amongst the most sought-after graduates for New Zealand’s gaming industry, forging alliances with the likes of Rocketwerkz, Pik-Pok and Outerdawn.

Why study Game Programming?

• You should study Game Programming in 2023 if you are passionate about studying, analysing and creating video games. As a game programmer, you will learn how to use coding languages like C++, collaborate with artists and game designers, and transform ideas into living, breathing, and functional worlds that beg to be explored.

Course Outline
What you'll cover in this course

Year 1

Start your learning with the essential theories, principles and knowledge needed for game programming and development, which includes an overview of C++ programming and practical mathematical skills. You will also gain experience constructing, testing and debugging simple computer games.

Component Name and Credits    

• Introduction to Software Engineering for Games 15
• Algorithms and Data Structures 15
• 2D Game Programming 15
• 3D Graphics Programming 15
• Creative Technologies: Game Studies I 15
• Maths 1 15
• Mathematics for Graphical Games 15
• Game Design Principles 20
• Introduction to Gameplay Programming 15

Year 2

Prepare for a major game production by learning the management strategies needed for a collaborative project. You will also learn software engineering principles, advanced graphic programming and advanced game programming strategies

Component Name and Credits

• Artificial Intelligence 15
• Software Engineering for Games 15
• Physics Programming 15
• Technology Leverage for Games 15
• Advanced Graphical Games Programming 15
• Software Engineering Principles and Practices 15
• Advanced Software Engineering and Programming for Games 15
• People and Games 15
• Game Mini Project II - Rapid Game Prototype 20

Year 3

The final year focuses on creating a major game production in conjunction with Bachelor of Creative Technologies (Game Art) students. You'll also begin developing for PlayStation platforms Vita and PS4. Just picture your portfolio at the end of it!

Component Name and Credits

• Game Engine Development 15
• Software Engineering Capstone Project 30
• Software Engineering Game Development Capstone Project 20
• Preproduction 15
• Game Development Team Production Alpha 30
• Game Development Team Production Gold 15
• Professional Practice 15

Part-time Study

Our part-time study options are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to balance your education with other life commitments. With part-time study at Media Design School, you can tailor your learning experience to fit your unique schedule and needs. We’re here to support you in achieving your academic goals while accommodating your busy lifestyle.

Career Opportunities

• To be a game developer you'll need both the experience and practical skills to be able to work across multiple game platforms and the ability to collaborate in a group that simulates the industry environment.
• Our graduates go to work in game studios here and around the globe, such as Game Loft, Grinding Gear Games, Pik Pok and Krome Studios.

Gameplay Programmer

• Focus on coding the systems that define how a game functions, including character controls, physics, and interaction mechanics. Working alongside designers and artists, you will bring game concepts to life by translating ideas into functional code.

Tools/Engine Programmer

• Create and maintain software tools and game engines that other developers use to build games. This involves optimising performance, adding new features to game engines, and improving the efficiency of the development pipeline. This role is essential in every studio and provides a reliable path for those who enjoy working on the technical foundation that supports game development.

AI Programmer

• Focus on developing the artificial intelligence systems that drive the behaviour of non-player characters (NPCs), enemies, and other in-game entities. This role involves creating algorithms for decision-making, pathfinding, and dynamic reactions, ensuring that characters respond realistically to player actions. AI Programmers work closely with designers and gameplay programmers to craft challenging and engaging game experiences.

Course Requirements
Entry Requirements

• To apply for this degree, you'll need a minimum qualification of NCEA University Entrance or equivalent, such as an appropriate qualification from an overseas secondary school or tertiary institution, deemed by Media Design School to be sufficient for admission into a bachelors programme. CIE (University of Cambridge International Examination) IB (International Baccalaureate)

Language Requirements

• As an international student, you'll need to prove you have sufficient English language skills in order to complete this course. We'll be looking for Academic IELTS overall score of 6.0 (minimum) with no band less than 5.5, or equivalent test result.
• We accept a range of internationally recognised English Language proficiency test. 

Portfolio Requirements

• A portfolio is not required if you are applying for Game Programming (Bachelor of Software Engineering). See the video on entry requirements and tips for your application.

BYOD Requirements

• Before you begin your study with us, you will need to have a suitable device that has the functionality to run the programmes required for your course.
• Click the link below to find course-specific requirements and recommendations, along with links to more information about hardware specifications. We have prepared these recommendations to help our students equip for flexible, blended learning.