BSc (Hons)Computer Games Programming and Design

Core modules

Programming Fundamentals

This module focuses on the idea that programming is fundamentally a problem-solving activity and seeks to lay the foundations in creative and logical thinking that are vital in many areas of software development.

Maths for Games

This module is designed to develop mathematics skills needed for computer games development, providing a foundation for all students, no matter what their previous maths experience might be.

Object-Oriented Development

This module builds on fundamental programming skills to further incorporate develop an object-oriented approach to the design and implementation of computer programs.

Scripting for Game Engines

This module aims to give a basic introduction to a selection of third-party development environments and involves learning about the engine’s interface, developing a simple game and how to find help should they encounter issues.

Gameplay and Game Design

This module will concentrate on the skills needed to produce the concept document and the design document (central to developing a commercial game), with a supporting library of artefacts to generate a comprehensive description of a new 2D game.

Collaborative Games Development

This is a group-based module where games design and programming students develop the skills and knowledge needed for prototype game development, learning about working in a team, and further strengthen their understanding of game engines and game development processes. This module will simulate the experience of working in a game studio to develop a small game project using a game engine. You will make important development decisions such as game direction, task delegation, managing and cutting scope, as well as learning how to handle tools such as source control and task management. The module culminates in a final game demo that goes straight to your portfolio.

Core modules

Artificial Intelligence for Games

This module explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) in delivering software solutions to real world problems. Emphasis is on those subjects that have immediate application, especially in the development of novel solutions within the games industry.

Producing Games

This module will concentrate on the knowledge and skills needed for computer game designers to become effective game producers and project managers. Students will learn the approaches to project management while working on a project, and analyse them based on their experiences working in a large team.

Gameplay Programming

Build up your practical skills around gameplay programming using a range of game engines. On this module you will learn to understand genre requirements, and develop simple systems for a wide range of game types such as 2D platformers or first-person adventure games, and refine your skills and understanding of a variety of popular engines.

Gamer Psychology and UX Design

Learn to fashion a usable product or application that is easily navigated and meets the needs of both creators and users. This module explores understanding player psychology and how to design both interfaces and experiences which enhance gameplay and player satisfaction.

Optional modules

Please note: Not all optional modules are guaranteed to run each year.

Cinematic and Narrative Design for Games

This module will explore the fundamentals of storytelling for interactive media, covering narrative theory, cinematography and creative writing, worldbuilding and more, and how those concepts apply to the game development pipeline. You will write your own stories, and then learn to execute them effectively in-game using a game engine.

Level Design and Rapid Prototyping

This module builds on the skills and knowledge learned in gameplay and game design, during the first year; transferring and enhancing those skills for rapid game prototyping through the design of mechanics and levels. You will explore level design documentation, and learn about topics such as 2D vs 3D level design, single-player vs multi-player, open-world level design and more - as well as learning to use level design tools and software-related techniques through various game engines. .

Network Game Programming

This module is an ideal introduction to game-oriented network programming using an API to create a fully working networked game. Gaining a solid understanding of basic networking principles, web protocols and server architecture, you will start using industry-standard analysis, design and implementation techniques, with the ultimate aim of preparing you to work in a team to develop online multiplayer games regardless of genre.

Tools Programming and Engine Architecture

Tools ensure assets and data are created properly and efficiently, allowing large teams of creative specialists to work alongside programmers. On this module you will gain a solid understanding of how games and other modern software are architected, and the tools are that form the development pipeline. You'll explore design patterns and other architectural solutions to common situations, and put theory into practice through developing your own software.

Computer Games Placement

A work placement provides the valuable opportunity to apply your skills and knowledge within a professional environment; comparing real work activities to theory, and identifing valuable skills and habits in the work place. This allows you to explore how your career may develop after graduation, and to consider your strengths and weaknesses before your final year. The experience gained on the placement should significantly enhance your professional skills and approach to work.

Core modules

Computer Games Major Project

This module provides you with the opportunity to plan and manage a project of significant scale and complexity, reflecting theory and practice drawn from the course as well as your particular interests. Your completed project will demonstrate your ability to plan, execute and present a game technology product built from your efforts, and can become a cornerstone of a graduate portfolio.

Indie Game Development

This module will provide clear understanding of the financial and legal aspects of starting and running a business in the video games industry – as well as business start-up skills that fledgling entrepreneurs need to survive in a competitive marketplace. You will evaluate the pre-existing games industry and the history of indie game development, analyse real-world indie developers (including post-mortems of well-known indie games), and explore the issues involved in creating, presenting and maintaining a business plan.

Project Research and Professional Development

This module will enhance your existing knowledge, skills and self-awareness and prepare you to start your career, helping you integrate the knowledge, skills and critical reflection learned throughout your course, which can transfer to both your final major project in the final semester as well as your future career in the games industry. You will also develop and hone your research skills as you explore knowledge relevant to your individual games project, from either the programming or the design aspect.

Studio Practice

This module takes the concept of producing games further by having the entire class work as a studio formed of artists, designer and programmers. Students reinforce learning from other modules by putting concepts into practice while working collaboratively to publish a small but polished game.

Optional modules

Please note: Not all optional modules are guaranteed to run each year.

Graphics Programming

Graphics programming is an invaluable part of the games development industry, going beyond the capabilities of off-the-shelf engines and giving games their own individual look. This module will teach you to write custom shaders and programs to create many of the visual effects seen in most modern games, and provide greater understanding of the complexities involved with the graphics component of a game engine, including advanced techniques, technologies and Mathematical concepts as used by computer games industry professionals.

Casual and Competitive Game Design

The module will focus on the contrasting development cycles of both a casual game and a competitive game, explore common mechanics, game loops and rulesets of applicable genres for each market, before moving into practical concepts, topics and techniques; culminating in production of two smaller game portfolio pieces: a 'casual' product using internet or mobile technologies, and a competitive' level of adequate complexity depending on the chosen game genre.