BSc Computer Games Programming

Program Overview

The BSc Computer Games Programming program at University of Roehampton provides students with the technical skills and knowledge needed for success in game development. Focusing on software development, engine development, graphics programming, and simulation, the program immerses students in a studio environment and offers a one-year paid work placement option. Graduates are prepared for careers as gameplay programmers, graphics programmers, engine programmers, AI programmers, and software engineers, with the program ranked among the top 15% globally.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This BSc Computer Games Programming degree is designed to equip students with the technical skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic world of game development. The program focuses on the technical aspects of game development, including software development, engine development, graphics programming, and simulation. It aims to provide a real-world experience, replicating the work culture of the gaming industry, ensuring a smooth transition for graduates into their chosen careers.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• The program is a 3-year full-time degree, with the option of a one-year paid work placement after year two.
• Students can also choose to study the program with a foundation year, extending the program to four years.
• The foundation year provides academic and practical experience, equipping students with the necessary skills to succeed in the degree.

Course Schedule:

• Year 1:
• Software Development 1
• Computer Systems
• Mathematics for Games Development
• Software Development 2
• Game Prototyping
• Databases
• Year 2:
• Software Development for Games
• Algorithms
• Computer Graphics
• Software Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Team Project
• Placement Year (Optional):
• Students can choose to take a one-year paid work placement after year two, gaining valuable work experience and building career skills.
• Year 3:
• Final Year Project
• Game Physics
• Concurrent and Parallel Systems
• Studio Project
• Game Engineering

Module Descriptions:

• Software Development 1 & 2: These modules cover the fundamentals of programming, focusing on object-oriented programming concepts, data structures, and algorithms.
• Game Prototyping: This module introduces students to the process of game prototyping, covering design principles, game mechanics, and basic game engine usage.
• Databases: This module covers database concepts, including relational databases, SQL, and database design.
• Software Development for Games: This module focuses on the specific programming techniques used in game development, including game engine integration, scripting, and optimization.
• Algorithms: This module explores various algorithms used in game development, including search algorithms, sorting algorithms, and pathfinding algorithms.
• Software Engineering: This module introduces students to software engineering principles, including software design, testing, and quality assurance.
• Artificial Intelligence: This module explores the application of artificial intelligence in game development, including game AI, pathfinding, and decision-making.
• Team Project: This module involves students working in teams to develop a complete game project, applying the skills and knowledge learned throughout the program.
• Final Year Project: This module allows students to undertake an independent research project, focusing on a specific area of game development.
• Game Physics: This module covers the physics principles used in game development, including collision detection, rigid body dynamics, and particle systems.
• Concurrent and Parallel Systems: This module explores the concepts of concurrency and parallelism, essential for developing high-performance games.
• Studio Project: This module involves students working in a studio environment to develop a game project, simulating a real-world game development process.

Assessment:

• Assessments are designed to reflect real-world industry practices.
• Methods include:
• Portfolios: Students create responses to creative briefs, showcasing their design and development skills.
• Presentations: Students present artistic concepts, ideas, sketches, and prototypes.
• Critical reflections and written responses to briefs: Students demonstrate their understanding of game development principles and their ability to analyze and critique game design.

Teaching:

• The program emphasizes interactive learning, with students working closely with lecturers and fellow students.
• Teaching methods include:
• Studio environment: Students immerse themselves in practical learning within a studio setting.
• Game Studios Workshops: Students participate in hands-on workshops conducted in real game studios.
• Small-group seminars: Students engage in focused group discussions.
• Tutorials: Students receive personalized guidance and instruction.
• The program also includes field trips to experience the professional world of computer gaming.

Careers:

• Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in the games industry, including:
• Gameplay programmer
• Graphics programmer
• Engine programmer
• AI programmer
• Software engineer
• The University's Placement and Work Experience Team provides support in securing placements and graduate-level employment.
• The program also offers career development events, guest industry speakers, networking opportunities, and personalized mentoring.

Other:

• The program is ranked in the top 15% in the world by the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024.
• The University of Roehampton is ranked #1 modern university in the UK for Research by the Research Excellence Framework.
• The program offers a £2,000 Foundation Scholarship for all home students.

| Category | Details | | --------- | --------- |

| UK student | September 2024 entry tuition fees: £9,250 |

| Placement year: | £998|

|EU and International: | September 2024 entry tuition fees: |

| Fees: | £15,750|

| Placement year | £998|