Game Programming

Modules may include:

Level 6

Advanced Games Development (20 Credits)

Learn how to transfer code across multiple coding languages, while developing a wide range of games and applications. This module also builds on advanced debugging techniques and code reviews, which will accelerate the process of game creation.

Research (20 Credits)

Every design decision reflects the ideological, technological and historical context of production; and this module encourages you to directly address these design constructs. You will conduct independent research into this issue, locating its problem in a theoretical context with reference to existing exploration by practitioners and theorists.

Applied Maths for Computer Games (20 Credits)

Discover the fundamental maths concepts that will help you understand the vital calculations game engines run in the background. You will then use these concepts to create specialised gameplay mechanics from scratch.

Team Project (20 Credits)

This module focuses on the group-working element of game creation. Working as a group is a paramount skill within the games industry and you will join with other games artists, developers and programmers to create a complex game.

Major Project (40 Credits)

The Major Project allows you to pick a chosen field of expertise and showcase your specialist skills. You will develop your practical and theoretical skills by selecting, evaluating and analysing a pertinent issue within the contemporary computer games industry.

You will be given the opportunity to work across a wide range of projects, developing skills in the specialism of game programming; looking at the advanced programming techniques required to create well-developed, polished and optimised systems and functions. You will create industry-standard gameplay mechanics by implementing these systems and functions in multiple coding languages. There is heavy emphasis on the preparation of systems in order to support developers throughout the production process. Throughout the year, you will be preparing and creating work to be showcased within a portfolio.

You will develop the following skills:

Creative and logical thinking that prepares you for the role of a games programmer
Critical and analytical understanding of key systems and functions used in game programming
Fostering an independent and autonomous work ethic to become a self-motivated programmer
Research skills, employability skills, academic writing and project management

Benefits include:

Smaller cohorts allowing more personalised teaching and learning
Taught by practising professionals
Opportunity for networking and industry links
The opportunity to work collaboratively on ideas and projects

You will also develop your problem-solving skills, learning to appreciate and apply advanced techniques in the creation and development of games. You will learn the skills required to be a well-versed industry professional. You will develop a range of coding languages that are able to be used across multiple disciplines and industries, which will be vital to your career and personal development. All of these skills can be used in various job roles including Games Programmer, Gameplay Programmer, AI Developer and Software Developer.

Modules will be formally assessed and graded through a range of methods, including:

Practical demonstrations
Portfolios
Reflections
Case studies
Solo and group projects
Evaluations
Academic posters

This range of activities provides the opportunity for everyone to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout the course of their studies.

The course is delivered in purpose-built suites at the University Centre.

TYPICAL OFFER

Foundation Degree: 50% module average on the second year of an FD in a relevant subject.

HND: Merit grade in a relevant subject.

IELTS: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any component.

International qualifications: International qualifications will be assessed against these criteria.

Mature applicants: University Centre Leeds welcomes applications from mature applicants who may not have met the academic criteria, but who can demonstrate a wealth of experience in their chosen field. Candidates in this category and otherwise are likely to be interviewed to assess their suitability for the course and may be asked to provide a portfolio of evidence to support their application.

*21 years and over at the start of the course

RPL Claims: The course structure actively supports claims for Recognition of Prior Certified Learning (RPCL) or Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL).

On completion of this top-up degree you can progress on to a Masters or seek relevant employment which may include:

Programmer
IT Technician
Web Developer
App Developer
Game Programmer
Gameplay Programmer
AI Developer
Software Engineer
Network Programmer
Unity Programmer
Unreal Engine Programmer

For the latest version of the programme specifications for this course please click here.

For the latest version of the course handbook for this course please click here.

For the latest version of The Open University regulations please click here.

Study Game Programming at University Centre Leeds

Entry Requirements