About the course

The creation and production of computer games has grown to become a huge, rapidly evolving industry with a growing need for talented individuals to fill technical and creative positions. On this practical course, you work at the cutting edge of games technology, preparing you to hit the ground running when you join the sector.

The course takes a hands-on approach to games development, calling on you to work on games and creative-technology projects from the start, turning game ideas into playable demos. In the first year, you learn a variety of relevant techniques, including programming and 2D/3D graphics for games, as well as researching the market and generating ideas for original games.

You work in our specialist Creative Technologies and games development labs, and use a range of cutting-edge technologies - such as motion capture, green screen, VR and XR - to develop your practice and build a professional portfolio.

From your second year, you select one of three areas in which to specialise:

• games programming - learn industry-standard programming techniques and languages, including C# and C++, so you can turn designed gameplay into a playable form
• games design - design immersive player experiences and game environments, levels, mechanics and game systems, including creating in-game challenges
• games graphics - create artwork, models and animations tailored for use in games, using the latest graphics techniques in game engines

Download the Course Specification for more details of what each specialism covers.

Why choose this course?

• Explore the latest developments in mobile, PC, web, console, virtual reality and augmented reality gaming
• From your second year, become a student member of the industry association Ukie, offering benefits such as attending game conferences; applying for internships and mentorships; joining games-related events such as game jams; and receiving portfolio help and advice
• Study in passionate, dynamic groups as you get to grips with commercially relevant software tools such as Unreal Engine, Unity, Gamemaker Studio 2, 3ds Max, Maya and Blender
• Gain experience with motion capture rigs, virtual reality and 3D sculpting
• Challenge yourself by solving complex creative problems; presenting new game concepts and ideas; and building your team working and project-coordination skills
• Benefit from personal development planning which will help you research companies; formulate your future plans; develop a professional, industry-focused portfolio; and apply for jobs
• Take the option of a fee-free sandwich year in industry, building experience and making contacts for the future
• If you need a step-up into higher education, start with a Foundation Year (see below), which guarantees you a place on the degree course

Marcia began teaching in higher education in 2007 and joined the school of Computer Science and Technology full time in 2013. She has 15 years of experience in teaching and research within the areas of multimedia, computer games, HCI and security (with particular focus on usable security). Marcia currently works as part of the school’s creative technologies subject cluster, is course co-ordinator for BSc (Hons) Computer Games Development and is an academic member of Ukie (the UK Interactive Entertainment association).