Games Design and Development BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Games Design and Development program at Ulster University equips students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the competitive games industry. Through a modular structure, students explore game design, development, and programming, preparing them for careers as game designers, developers, programmers, and more. The program emphasizes teamwork, critical analysis, and original game development, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The BSc (Hons) Games Design and Development program at Ulster University provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the competitive games industry. The program focuses on game design, development, and programming, preparing students for careers as game designers, developers, programmers, and more.

Objectives:

• Students will be able to design, develop, and program video games using industry-standard tools, software languages, and practices.
• Students will be able to work effectively in a team environment and communicate effectively with other game developers.
• Students will be able to critically analyze and evaluate video games and identify the key elements that make them successful.
• Students will be able to conduct research into the history, theory, and practice of game design and development.
• Students will be able to develop their own original game ideas and prototypes.

Description:

The program is based on a modular structure, with students taking a variety of modules covering all aspects of game design and development. Students will also have the opportunity to complete an optional work placement or study abroad year. The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals, who are passionate about game design and development. The program is delivered through a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual supervision.

Outline:

Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Game design principles
• Game development techniques
• Game programming languages
• Artificial intelligence
• User interface design
• Game graphics
• Game audio
• Game project management
• Game marketing

Structure:

The program is divided into four levels, with each level consisting of three semesters. Students will take a total of 120 credits over the four years.

Course Schedule:

The course schedule is subject to change, but a typical schedule for the first year is as follows:

• Semester 1: Fundamentals of Game Programming, Game Design Theory and Practice, Game Graphics, 2D Game Creation
• Semester 2: Advanced Game Programming, Game Character Control and Behaviour, Game Mechanics and Gameplay Design, Game Audio & Visual Effects
• Semester 3: Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP) (optional), International Academic Studies (optional)

Individual Modules:

• Fundamentals of Game Programming: This module introduces students to the basics of game programming, including programming languages, game engines, and game development tools.
• Game Design Theory and Practice: This module introduces students to the history, theory, and practice of game design.
Students will learn about the different types of games, the game design process, and the key elements that make a game successful.
• Game Graphics: This module introduces students to the principles of game graphics, including 2D and 3D graphics, animation, and lighting.
Students will learn how to create game graphics using industry-standard software.
• 2D Game Creation: This module gives students the opportunity to create their own 2D game.
Students will learn how to design, develop, and program a 2D game using industry-standard tools.
• Advanced Game Programming: This module builds on the skills learned in the Fundamentals of Game Programming module.
Students will learn about advanced game programming concepts, such as artificial intelligence, networking, and physics.
• Game Character Control and Behaviour: This module teaches students how to create believable and engaging game characters.
Students will learn about character design, animation, and artificial intelligence.
• Game Mechanics and Gameplay Design: This module teaches students about the principles of game mechanics and gameplay design.
Students will learn how to design and implement game mechanics that are fun, engaging, and challenging. Students will learn about sound design, music composition, and animation.
• Diploma in Professional Practice (DPP): This optional module gives students the opportunity to gain work experience in the games industry.
Students will work on a real-world game project with a team of industry professionals.
• International Academic Studies: This optional module gives students the opportunity to study abroad at a partner institution.
Students will be able to choose from a variety of courses and programs related to game design and development.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module but may include:

• Exams
• Coursework
• Presentations
• Portfolios
• Group projects

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals. The teaching methods used include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Individual supervision
The program also offers a variety of unique approaches to teaching, such as:
• Guest lectures from industry professionals
• Game jams
• Industry visits
• Project-based learning

Careers:

The program prepares students for a variety of careers in the games industry. Possible career paths include:

• Game designer
• Game developer
• Game programmer
• QA tester
• Games journalist
• Games educator
• Games entrepreneur

Other:

• The program is based in Ulster University's Northwest campus in Derry~Londonderry.
• The program is accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
• The program has strong links with the games industry, and students have the opportunity to work on real-world game projects.
• The program offers a variety of scholarships and bursaries to help students with their studies.