Games Programming BSc (Hons)

Our games programming bsc degree will enable you to develop the specialist knowledge and key skills needed to join this thriving industry. You’ll be joining a supportive and friendly community of highly motivated games students who work hard to achieve their goals.

Gain expertise in lots of aspects of games programming

• 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 

Show off your work

• We actively encourage you to engage in public competitions and gaming events such as Game Jams and we hold an annual Summer Show where students at all levels have the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider professional audience

Gain a solid grounding in game design before developing your skills further

• 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
• 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 Game Jams, and we hold an annual Summer Show where students at all levels have the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider professional audience.

Course modules

• The modules listed below are for the academic year 2024/25 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year 1 modules

• C++ Game Programming
• C++ Programming
• Computer and Gaming Hardware Architectures
• Game Design
• Game Design and Development
• Introduction to Game Prototyping
• Logic and Mathematical Techniques

C++ Game Programming
This module currently runs:

• Spring semester - Monday afternoon

(Core, 15 credits)

• This module introduces students to graphics programming, using standard libraries to integrate graphics and other media to console applications. They will learn how to design and develop simple games, including use of state machines, user control systems, animated interactions, collision detection and maintenance of scores and inventories.

Aims

• Introduce students to standard libraries and media libraries.
• Develop skills in graphics and audio programming
• Deploy simple maths and physics in code
• Enable students to design and produce simple 2D games to a high standard

Year 2 modules

• Advanced C++
• Advanced C++ for Games
• Game Implementation
• Game Prototype Development
• Programming Graphical Special Effects for Games
• Shaders and Graphics Programming
• Sound Design for Games
• Virtual Reality Game Development

Year 3 modules

• Advanced Game Implementation
• Advanced Prototype Development
• Artificial Intelligence
• Artificial Intelligence for Games
• Creative Practice Dissertation Project
• Creative Research Dissertation Project
• Networking for Games
• Audio Plug-in Coding
• Career Development Learning
• Documentary Filmmaking
• Interaction Design for Non-Humans