BSc (Hons) in Computer Gameplay Design and Production

Program Overview

Staffordshire University's Computer Gameplay Design and Production program equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel as game designers. Through a combination of theoretical and practical modules, students develop a deep understanding of game design principles, create their own games, and gain industry experience through a work placement year. Graduates are highly sought after by leading game companies, ensuring a successful career in the industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Computer Gameplay Design and Production

is a BSc (Hons) degree offered at Staffordshire University. The program is designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful game designers.

Program Objectives:

• Develop students' understanding of the principles and techniques of game design.

• Provide them with the opportunity to design and create their own games.

• Prepare them for a career in the games industry.

Program Description:

• The program is taught over three years and is divided into six semesters.
• Students will take a variety of modules that cover all aspects of game design, including:
• Game development
• Scripting
• User interface design
• Artificial intelligence
• Level design
• Game narrative
• Students will also have the opportunity to take modules in other related areas, such as computer science, mathematics and art and design.
• The program includes a work placement year, which gives students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the games industry.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Introduction to Asset Creation
• Introduction to Games Animation
• Introduction to Games Design
• Mechanics Prototyping
• Narrative Design For Games

Year 2:

• Experimental Games Production
• Junior Collaborative Games Development
• Systems Design For Games
• 2D Games Creation
• Advanced Realtime Technologies
• Arcade Games Development
• C# For Games Designers
• Cinematics For Games Designers
• Game History Theory And Culture
• Gameplay And Quest Design
• User Interface Design And Implementation
• Virtual Reality For Games Designers

Year 3:

• Games Development Project
• Rapid Games Design
• Senior Collaborative Games Development
• C++ For Game Designers
• Emergent Games Technologies
• Experimental Level Design
• Prototyping For Technical Designers

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Coursework
• Exams
• Projects
• Presentations
The specific assessment methods used for each module will vary.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced academics and industry professionals.

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Practical workshops
• Field trips
The program also has access to a variety of excellent facilities, including:
• Game development labs
• Art and design studios
• Motion capture studio

Careers:

Graduates of the Computer Gameplay Design and Production program have gone on to work for a variety of companies in the games industry, including:

• Rockstar Games
• Sony
• Codemasters
• Rebellion
• Creative Assembly
• Ubisoft
• Rare
• SEGA
• Frontier Developments

Other:

• The program is accredited by TIGA, the independent game developers' association.
• Students have the opportunity to take part in the Global Games Jam, an annual event that challenges students to develop a video game in 48 hours.
Graduates of the program are highly qualified and in demand by employers.