About the course

The creation and production of computer games have grown to become a huge, rapidly evolving industry with a growing need for talented individuals to fill technical and creative positions. On this practical course, you work at the cutting edge of games technology, preparing you to hit the ground running when you join the sector.

TIGA member – representing the games industry

UKIE logoThe course takes a hands-on approach to games development, calling on you to work on games and creative-technology projects from the start, turning game ideas into playable demos. In the first year, you learn a variety of relevant techniques, including programming and 2D graphics for games, as well as researching the market and generating ideas for original games.

You work in our specialist creative technologies and game-development labs, and use a range of cutting-edge technologies – such as motion capture, green screen, VR and XR – to develop your practice and build a professional portfolio.

From your second year, you select one of three areas in which to specialize:

games programming – learn industry-standard programming techniques and languages, including C# and C++, so you can turn designed gameplay into a playable form
games design – design immersive player experiences and game environments, levels, mechanics, and game systems, including creating in-game challenges
games graphics – create artwork, models, and animations tailored for use in games, using the latest graphics techniques in game engines
Download the Course Specification for more details of what each specialism covers.

Why choose this course?

• Explore the latest developments in mobile, PC, web, console, virtual reality, and augmented reality gaming
• From your second year, become a student member of the industry association Ukie, offering benefits such as attending game conferences; applying for internships and mentorships; joining games-related events such as game jams, and receiving portfolio help and advice
• Study in passionate, dynamic groups as you get to grips with commercially relevant software tools such as Unreal Engine, Unity, Gamemaker Studio 2, 3ds Max, Maya and Blender
• Gain experience with motion capture rigs, virtual reality, and 3D sculpting
• Challenge yourself by solving complex creative problems; presenting new game concepts and ideas; and building your team working and project-coordination skills
• Benefit from personal development planning which will help you research companies; formulate your future plans; develop a professional, industry-focused portfolio; and apply for jobs
• Take the course over four years and include a fee-free year in industry (see below), building experience and making contacts for the future
• If you need a step up into higher education, start with a Foundation Year (see below), which guarantees you a place on the degree course