High-Performance Graphics and Games Engineering MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in High-Performance Graphics and Games Engineering at the University of Leeds equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in the competitive graphics and games industry. The program covers low-level programming, multi-core programming, game engine development, and advanced computer graphics techniques. Students benefit from cutting-edge research, industry links, and opportunities to build their own game engine from scratch.

Program Outline

High-Performance Graphics and Games Engineering MSc - University of Leeds

Degree Overview:

This MSc program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the high-performance graphics and games industry. The program focuses on developing expertise in computer graphics, pushing computing resources to their limits, and generating advanced visual effects on cutting-edge hardware platforms.

Objectives:

• Gain proficiency in low-level programming, including C++, Graphic and Compute shaders.
• Develop a deep understanding of multi-core and many-core programming techniques.
• Master game engine and tool development techniques.
• Gain fundamental insight into computer graphics and the practical techniques used in games.
• Build an extensive technical skill set recognized and sought after in the gaming industry.
• Develop professional skills in research and critical thinking through individual project work.
• Experience expert theoretical and practical teaching delivered by academics and researchers actively engaged in cutting-edge research.

Outline:

Year 1 Compulsory Modules:

• MSc Project (60 credits): This module allows students to work on a research project, focusing on a specialist topic in computer science and selecting appropriate research methods.
Students can explore past projects completed by previous students on the Visualization and Computer Graphics group page.
• Group Project (30 credits): This module provides students with the opportunity to collaborate on a project, developing teamwork and communication skills.
• Deep Learning (15 credits): This module introduces students to the fundamentals of deep learning, covering topics such as neural networks, convolutional neural networks, and recurrent neural networks.
• Foundations of Computer Graphics (15 credits): This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the core principles of computer graphics, covering topics such as geometric models, animation and simulation, and advanced methods for visual realism.
• Advanced Rendering (30 credits): This module delves into advanced rendering techniques, exploring topics such as ray tracing, physically based rendering, and real-time rendering.
• Modelling and Animation (15 credits): This module focuses on the techniques used to create 3D models and animations, covering topics such as 3D modeling software, animation principles, and character rigging.
• Students engage with staff through lectures, seminars, tutorials, small group work, and project meetings.
• Independent study is encouraged to develop problem-solving, research skills, and subject knowledge.
• Industry links provide direct contact with industry professionals and potential employers.
• Members of the steering group contribute to course delivery, ensuring students learn the latest industry developments.
• The program utilizes specialist facilities, including workstations with high-end GPUs for DirectX12 and Vulkan games development platforms, Virtual Reality headsets, and other hardware.
• Teaching is delivered by a team of academics and researchers actively engaged in cutting-edge research within the Visualization and Computer Graphics research group.
• The program leader, Dr.
His research interests include computer graphics, vision, machine learning, and applications.
• Students may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods include case studies, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, assignments, and exams.

Careers:

• The program prepares students for a variety of roles in the multi-billion-pound global games industry, including software developer, technology leader for graphics and rendering, games development leader, and technical director.
• Graduates are expected to progress rapidly into leadership roles, becoming experts in graphics technologies.
• The programming skills developed during the program can also be applied to other performance-driven industries, such as embedded systems.
• Computer graphics expertise can lead to opportunities in the animation and visual production industries.
• The University of Leeds is ranked among the top 5 most targeted universities in the UK by graduate recruiters, according to High Fliers’ The Graduate Market in 2024 report.

Other:

• The program is delivered in the Sir William Henry Bragg building, which offers excellent facilities and teaching spaces.
• The program is taught by the School of Computing.
• The program is part of the University of Leeds's commitment to providing a world-class education and preparing students for successful careers.

UK fees: £13,500 (Total)

International fees: £31,750 (Total)