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Computing (Games Development) (Full-time) (BSc Hons)

Swansea
3 Years Full-time
104 UCAS Points

Are you fascinated by computer games and the technology behind them? Our Computing (Games Development) degree focuses on software development, computer graphics, and computer games. This programme is designed to give you the technical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the games industry and specialist software organisations.

Software development is at the heart of this course. You will learn the technical aspects of games programming and games development techniques. This includes understanding game mechanics, and honing your programming skills. By the end of the course, you will be able to design, develop, and implement complex software for games and other related industries.

Throughout your studies, you will build a solid foundation in software development and gain comprehensive knowledge of the Computer Games area. This will include up-to-date insights into the current state of the industry, ensuring you are well-prepared for a successful career. The programme also places a strong emphasis on lifelong learning, equipping you with the skills needed to continuously update and adapt your abilities throughout your career.

The course is structured to help you develop a broad range of skills while also allowing you to pursue more specialist interests. You will learn about game project management, enabling you to lead and collaborate on game development projects effectively. This programme is ideal for those who wish to explore various aspects of game design and development, offering a well-rounded education that covers both the creative and technical sides of the industry.

As a graduate of this course, you can expect to start your career as a member of a team, working on the designing, developing, and implementing of complex software for games or other related industries. Your role may involve collaborating with other programmers, designers, and artists to bring game concepts to life. This experience will not only prepare you for immediate employment but will also set the stage for future career growth within the games industry or specialist software organisations.

Choosing this programme means committing to a pathway that is both challenging and rewarding. The skills and knowledge you gain will open doors to exciting opportunities in the world of computer games development. Whether you aim to work in games programming, design intricate game mechanics, or manage large-scale game development projects, this course will provide you with the tools and experience needed to excel.

Course details

Start date:
Study modes:
  • On-campus
  • Full-time
Language:
  • English
  • Bilingual
Institution code:
T80
UCAS code:
126S
Course length:
3 Years Full-time
Entry requirements:
104 UCAS Points

Tuition Fees 24/25
Home (Full-time): £9,000 per year
Overseas (Full-time): £13,500 per year

Why choose this course?

01
Taught by staff with relevant academic and games industry experience.
02
Discover the secrets to Games Development using C/C++.
03
Cover the essentials of real-time Graphics programming, Virtual Reality systems and Artificial Intelligence.

What you will learn

Our philosophy in the Computing (Games Development) course is to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring students develop both the creative and technical skills needed for the games industry. We emphasise hands-on experience, industry relevance, and lifelong learning to equip you with a comprehensive and adaptable skill set.

In the first year, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of software development, computer graphics, and games programming. Modules will cover programming skills, game mechanics, and basic animation, providing a solid foundation in the technical aspects of computer games. You will also begin to understand game project management and develop lifelong learning skills.

Compulsory

Software Development

(20 credits)

Computer Architecture and Operating Systems

(20 credits)

Network and Cybersecurity Essentials

(20 credits)

Learning in the Digital Era

(20 credits)

Game Design and History

(20 credits)

Mathematics

(20 credits)

The second year focuses on advancing your knowledge and skills in games development techniques and software development. You will delve deeper into complex software design, developing your ability to implement sophisticated game mechanics and interactive elements. This year also includes opportunities to work on collaborative projects, enhancing your teamwork and project management abilities.

Compulsory

Changemakers: Creativity and Value Creation

(20 credits)

Indie Game Development

(20 credits)

Data Security and Compliance

(20 credits)

Advanced Software Development

(20 credits)

Games Architecture and Mechanics

(20 credits)

Software Engineering Principles and Testing

(20 credits)

In your final year, you will specialise in areas of interest, applying your technical skills to create a comprehensive portfolio. You will work on major projects that simulate real-world games industry environments, preparing you for employment. Emphasis is placed on industry relevance and specialist interests, ensuring you are ready to enter the workforce or pursue further studies.

Compulsory

Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

(20 credits)

Emerging Trends

(20 credits)

Graphics and Games Programming

(20 credits)

GPU Programming

(20 credits)

Independent Project

(40 credits)

Course Disclaimer

  • We listen to student feedback and insights from industry and from professionals to ensure that course content is high-quality and up-to-date, and that it offers the best possible preparation for your future career or study goals. 

    For this reason, there might be modifications to the content of your course over time, to keep up to date with changes in the subject area or in the sector. If a module is no longer running, we’ll make sure to keep you informed, and work with you to choose a different suitable module.

testimonial

Staff

Our People

You will be taught and supported by a wide range of professional staff and teams here to help you get the university experience you are looking for. Our teaching staff were ranked 2nd in Wales for Teaching, Assessment and Feedback and Academic Support (NSS 2024) meaning that the support and feedback you get will help you learn and develop strong academic skills. Our students have placed us 1st in Wales for Learning Opportunities and Student Voice (NSS 2024) meaning that there are a wide range of opportunities available to enhance your studies and that students play an active role in shaping their learning experiences. Our commitment to your learning has seen our students place us as 1st in Wales and joint 3rd in the UK for student satisfaction (Times Higher Education, 2024, ‘Overall Positivity’ measure). Find out more about our academic staff who teach across our courses. 

Further information

  • 104 UCAS tariff points (previously 260) to include:

    • Two C grades at A-Level/AVCE; or
    • BTEC National Diploma grades Merit, Pass, Pass; or 
    • BTEC National Certificate grades Merit, Merit; or 
    • NVQ Level 3 - Pass

    Subjects at Advanced Level should include ICT, Computing, Maths, Physics or similar.

    GCSE Maths Level 4 (previously C) or above is required.

    Grades are important; however, our offers are not solely based on academic results. We are interested in creative people that demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen subject area and therefore we welcome applications from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. To assess student suitability for their chosen course we normally arrange interviews for all applicants at which your skills, achievements and life experience will be considered as well as your qualifications. 

  • The School of Applied Computing aims to produce graduates that help shape the future of software engineering.  The course content is contemporary and shaped for employability through close links with local and national employers.

    Students are assessed through a combination of worksheets, practicals, presentations, projects and examinations.  Module assessment is often by assignment, or assignment and examination. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of coursework set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by written report and presentation.

    Students are encouraged to use our links with Software Alliance Wales and Go Wales to work on commercial schemes for their Major Project module.  Go Wales provides the opportunity of paid work placements with local businesses.

  • It is possible to complete this programme of study without any additional costs.

    Students may wish to purchase materials for modules, such as Major Project but this is not a requirement and will have no bearing on the final grade achieved. 

  • You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available, please visit our Bursaries and Scholarships section.

  • Our graduates have excellent employment prospects in the computing, teaching, lecturing and ICT industry, as well as in other areas of the economy. Recent statistics show that the vast majority are following their chosen career paths within six months of graduating.

    Graduates would seek positions as Junior Programmer, Lead Programmer, Engine/Tools Programmer, Graphics/Special Effects/Rendering Programmer, Audio Programmer/Engineer, Artificial Intelligence Programmer, Networking/Multiplayer, Networking Programmer, Mobile Games Programmer, Physics Programmer, Software Engineer, Software Developer, etc.

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