BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Games Programming

About the course

Games development is a large and thriving industry in the UK. We want to help you gain the skills to become a great programmer so you can get a rewarding job in this exciting sector. You could be a games developer, or you could choose to take your skills and work in any programming job.

Your course will cover general computing and software engineering knowledge and techniques that apply across the computing industry. At the same time you’ll have the chance to explore the latest issues in computer games. We’ll look at the technical aspects of games development, and support you to develop a strong knowledge base. From computer games programming to games systems and development techniques, we’ll cover some vital topics.

We’ll also cover:

• Game engine architecture
• Computational mathematics
• Artificial intelligence
• Computer graphics
• Physics simulations

You'll study programming languages including Java and you'll be supported in progressing to C++ (as it‘s the industry standard). You'll also explore game specific technologies, shaders, computer vision, virtual reality (VR). As the ability to work in a team is a vital skill in the games industry, we support you in developing your team working skills through group project work.

After your second year you can choose to take a year-long placement in the industry. Thanks to our links with a range of leading employers in the UK and internationally, you could end up working for a big name in your chosen career. Or you could have the chance to take a placement at the University’s Canalside Studios, working as part of a team researching and developing games for a range of platforms.

If you’d like to try your hand at setting up your own business, our Enterprise Placement Year (EPY) gives students from the UK or the EU the chance to start your own independent studio. You could set up your own company, located in our flagship 3M Buckley Innovation Centre. You can work on your own, or set up a company as part of a group. Business advisors and a games industry mentor will support you as you get things off the ground.

Your career

Previous graduates from courses in this subject area have gone on to work in a variety of roles such as network engineer, senior AI programmer, associate producer and DevOps engineer in organisations including Spotify, Rockstar Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe and IBM.