Computer Games Programming [with Placement year]

Become a specialist in your field, whether you want to be a games programmer or a software engineer..

• Develop specialist skills in gameplay, artificial intelligence, gaming tools, and mobile gaming.

• Learn to create software using industry-standard programming languages such as C# and C++.

• Gain opportunities for placements, live briefs and networking through our links with companies like Sony, Jagex and Frontier.

• Attend exciting industry events including games jams, talks, and festivals such as our annual Gamebridge.

• Work collaboratively in a development studio environment that reflects the professional workplace.

• Study in Cambridge, home to 26 active games companies (source: Ukie Games Map, January 2024).

Our BSc (Hons) Computer Games Programming degree course will take you through the main areas of games development from initial idea generation all the way to releasing a playable and polished game.

You’ll not only learn to create games but gain a secondary skillset as a software developer.

Studying ARU’s Computer Games Programming degree will give you the opportunity to maximise your skills, gain valuable experience, and develop your professional network. The East of England has nearly 200 active games companies, with Cambridge itself home to 26 games companies including Jagex, Frontier Developments and Ninja Theory (source: ukie.org.uk’s games map January 2024).

You’ll improve your prospects with live briefs and guest speakers from tech giants like Sony, Jagex and Frontier and attend games jams, industry talks, conferences and festivals, like our annual gaming-inspired event Gamebridge. At Gamebridge, students from across the country attend industry-led talks and 1-2-1 portfolio reviews, whilst showcasing their work and networking with companies such as Frontier and Jagex as well as other like-minded students.

Our expert teaching and technical staff are here to offer you crucial support and feedback, and help you create an online presence to showcase your work.

Working as a team is crucial to games development and so you’ll take part in collaborative projects with students from other creative courses, developing your skills in teamwork and project management.

Every year, you’ll also tackle live briefs from our industry partners. These might include prototyping game ideas, and even developing teaser games. You’ll have a chance to take part in negotiated briefs too, which may focus more on your particular interests and specialisms.

Are computer games programmers in demand?
The computer games industry is booming, with growth fuelled by the proliferation of mobile gaming and new technologies such as altered/virtual reality (AR/VR) and next-generation consoles, as well as the popularity of eSports and game streaming and vlogging. According to UKIE the value of the UK video games market reached £7.05bn in 2022.

With more computer games available in more formats than ever before, gamers have come to expect high-quality gaming experiences. The industry needs highly skilled graduates that can work in multidisciplinary teams.

What are the benefits of a degree in Computer Games Programming?
81% of the UK computer games industry is educated to at least undergraduate level, rising to 88% for core games production roles in art or programming. A degree in Computer Games Programming is a signal to employers that you’re serious about a career in computer games and are up to the challenges of the job.

Facilities

From gaming and 3D modelling software through to HD cameras and graphic tablets, our games studio is filled with the latest industry-standard tools and equipment. Our dedicated Computer Games Technical Officer will be on hand to offer full training and support. You can also get training in the use of all our creative facilities, including a digital workshop with variety of computer aided manufacturing machines.

Year 1 core modules: Game Concepts and Analysis; Developing for Game Engines; Introduction to Games Programming; Software Development for Games. Year 2 core modules: Collaborative Games Development; Technical Development for Games; Complex Systems for Games; Ruskin Module. Year 3: Work placement. Year 4 core modules: Studio Practice for Games; Major Project for Games. Modules are subject to change and availability.

Our assessment methods reflect the practices you will need to work in the modern games industry. These include team project work; working to client/employer requirements; demonstrating comprehension of high-level programming language; complex technical problem-solving; designing and developing video artefacts; and producing reflective evaluations.

At each level of the course you will also be assessed on a written reflection of your own skillsets and your plan for professional development over the following year and into graduation.

You’ll also encounter a range of other assessment tasks throughout the course, including presentations, academic reports, and reflective commentaries.