Artificial Intelligence for Games MSc

Program Overview

Falmouth University's Artificial Intelligence for Games MSc program immerses students in the practical application of AI in game development. Through hands-on studio work and mentorship from industry experts, students gain a deep understanding of AI techniques and their impact on the global gaming industry. The program culminates in a major project where students showcase their skills by developing a polished and publishable game prototype.

Program Outline

It provides a deep understanding of how AI can be leveraged in games, along with a range of additional skills relevant to the broader gaming industry.

Key aspects of the program:

• Practice-focused: The program emphasizes hands-on experience through studio work, allowing students to test and experiment with cutting-edge AI techniques.
• Studio environment: Students collaborate with artists and designers in a studio environment, simulating real-world game development scenarios.
• Mentorship: Students receive guidance from renowned researchers and experienced developers, preparing them for their future careers.
• Portfolio development: Students build a portfolio of industry-ready projects through their coursework.

Outline:

Study Block 1:

• Modules:
• Development Practice
• Deepens knowledge of game development practices.
• Interdisciplinary team projects using C++ programming and git versioning.
• Personal reflective case study to enrich practice.
• 30 credits
• Classical Artificial Intelligence
• Explores and implements classical AI techniques for decision-making in industry.
• 30 credits

Study Block 2:

• Modules:
• Machine Learning
• Employs current machine learning frameworks to analyze data-rich problems.
• 30 credits
• Game Development Project
• Multidisciplinary team project across the Games Academy.
• Envision, design, implement, and pitch a game prototype.
• 30 credits

Study Block 3:

• Modules:
• Major Project
• Research and development project under the guidance of a supervisor.
• Showcase specialist skills and produce a fully realized, polished, and publishable project.
• 60 credits

Assessment:

• All assessments are 100% coursework-based.
• Learning environment mirrors the industry, preparing students for game studio work.
• Assessments include practical activities supported by critical analyses of workflows and practices.
• Module leaders and supervisors guide students through assessments to enhance their technical and academic skills.

Teaching:

• Regular support sessions from the course team and project supervision.
• Learning by producing games to a high standard.
• Collaboration in game development teams.
• Cutting-edge research and development conducted independently.
• Teaching methods include:
• Demonstrations
• Studio practice
• Project supervision
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Practical workshops
• Crit sessions
• Tutorials
• Guest speakers
• Mentoring

Faculty:

• World-leading researchers in AI.
• Expert game developers and programmers.
• Experienced tutors with industry experience.

Careers:

• Potential career paths include:
• Artificial intelligence specialist
• AI programmer
• Software developer
• Data analyst
• Technical director
• Game designer
• Systems designer
• Entrepreneur
• Researcher
• Further study/PhD

Other:

• Students have access to modern i7 machines, specialized computing hardware, industry-standard software (Adobe and Autodesk suites), AR/VR technologies, and late-night access to facilities during term time.
• The program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive field of AI-powered game development.

Tuition fees 2024-25 £9,200 per year - full-time UK (£250 acceptance fee payable. This is deducted from tuition fees.) £17,950 - full-time EU/international (£500-£2,500 acceptance fee payable depending upon your status. This is deducted from tuition fees) Tuition fees for September 2025 will be confirmed in summer 2024. Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible. The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs