manchester metropolitan university game design

Study
Undergraduate
BSc (Hons) Computer Games Development

BSc (Hons)

Computer Games Development

Press 'start' for hands-on games programming and we'll take you to the next level – and beyond.

Course overview

Watch our video of Computing student Jamie as he talks about his experience of studying within the department.

Our computer games development degree is designed to turn you into a games programmer and designer – from the word go you'll be hands-on, designing and programming games as you prepare for an exciting career at ...

What you need to know

When does the course start?
What is the length of the course?

3 years full-time

4 years with a placement
How many UCAS points do I need?
112-120
Where is the course located?
Manchester Campus

Features and benefits

"On Computer Games Development, we're all about making games and you'll be exposed to this from the very first term of your degree. Through the course you'll spend time building and refining a portfolio of games that really shows off who you are – a crucial element when applying for a job in the highly competitive games industry."
Dr Matthew Crossley
Senior Lecturer

Course Information

Digital technology has changed the way we live, work and relate to each other. It's already fundamental to business and industry and is now becoming just as important in our personal relationships, communications and leisure. In studying this rich subject area you'll not only learn the techniques in demand across the rapidly changing digital world but also develop the ability to create exciting and interactive content and valuable problem solving and creative skills that will open doors in a wide range of industries.

The Department of Computing and Mathematics has a reputation for academic excellence and you'll learn from research-active staff working at the forefront of their specialist fields – well placed to support and guide you as you discover yours. Manchester is a major hub for digital media and our strong industry links help to shape and inform our curriculum, so your skills and learning will be fully up to speed in one of the fastest-moving industries around – a must-have for your career.

The University is also part of the well-funded CityVerve 'internet of things' project, designed to transform our day-to-day lives in the digital age and make Manchester a world leader in smart city technology. MediaCityUK is nearby and has been attracting key players in the games development sector as well as smaller independent game developers, animation studios and UX agencies to the area.

Study computer games development with us and you'll be at the heart of this thriving tech community, qualified and ready to take advantage of all the opportunities both close at hand and further afield.

Accreditations, Awards and Endorsements

In Year 1 of our BSc (Hons) Computer Games Development degree, you will study a core set of computing skills, which include programming, maths for computing and databases. You will also study the art of game design, including various theories and frameworks, and you'll be designing and programming computer games from the outset using a variety of game programming languages and tools. You'll also develop your study, communication and team working skills. Please note that the following list of units is indicative and may be subject to change.

Core units

Programming

This unit introduces computer programming in a high-level programming language and includes principles and practice in problem-solving, program design, solution implementation and testing. Students gain practical experience in developing software using industry-standard programming languages and tools.

Databases

This unit introduces students to the use of the relational model to structure data for efficient storage and retrieval. Students will gain practical experience in the construction and usage of relational databases in an industry-standard relational database management system.

Graduate Skills

This unit introduces a range of skills required for students to succeed both on their degree and into graduate employment. The unit aims to help students to develop their own personal, independent and proactive studying methodology to be effective life-long learners.

Mathematics for Computing

This unit provides the essential mathematical foundation for further study in computing, covering a variety of applied mathematical topics suitable for a range of computing disciplines.

Team Project

This unit offers students the opportunity to collaborate on a programme-specific team project, collecting ideas from across their first year of study. Working in a team offers students the chance to develop skills in both independent and team working, project planning, and helps students prepare for their second year of study.

The Craft of Game Development

This unit explores the craft of game making, recognising the importance of the tools and techniques for game development for digital games.

The Art of Game Design

This unit explores the art of game design, recognising the importance of the various theories and frameworks of fun in the creation and development of gameplay for both analogue and digital games.

Study and assessment breakdown

10 credits equates to 100 hours of study, which is a combination of lectures, seminars and practical sessions, and independent study. A 3 year degree qualification typically comprises of 360 credits (120 credits per year). The exact composition of your study time and assessments for the course will vary according to your option choices and style of learning.

Study

Year 1 25% lectures, seminars or similar; 75% independent study
Year 2 25% lectures, seminars or similar; 75% independent study
Year 3 20% lectures, seminars or similar; 80% independent study

Assessment

Year 1 100% coursework
Year 2 100% coursework
Year 3 100% coursework

Optional foundation year

Study 30% lectures, seminars or similar; 70% independent study
Assessment 80% coursework; 20% examination

Placement options

The full-time four-year placement route provides the opportunity to go on a placement for at least 36 weeks, where you'll get a taste of professional life. Completing a placement not only develops your core skills and experience, but also shows employers that you're ready to get to work. Graduate employers report that students who have been on placements tend to be more mature, well organised and better able to apply their skills in a structured way.

In Year 2 you will further enhance your games design and development skills through the advanced use of programming languages and graphic libraries. You'll be developing game objects and environments and examining the games design and development process. You'll also start developing your employability by engaging with the computing industry and community. Please note that the following list of units is indicative and may be subject to change.

Core units

Thematic Project

Building on the knowledge and skills that they have developed so far on their programme, the thematic project will allow students to further develop their project management, team working and communication skills by applying those skills to a given industry, or research, inspired project. Wider aspects such as social, security, ethical and legal issues will be embedded in the project work where appropriate.

Algorithms and Data Structures

This unit explores a range of fundamental algorithms and data structures used to solve several computational challenges fundamental to the study of data science and machine learning disciplines. You will learn to consider and discuss algorithm complexity and efficiency through practical implementation using data structures, graphs, graph algorithms and graph search.

Industry and Community Engagement

This unit capitalises on the uniquely vibrant technology community in Manchester, challenging students to curate a portfolio of professional interests within the field by engaging with the local tech community at various events. Through self-reflection, students will develop new interests, and learn to see their course in a wider technological, social and ethical context.

Games Programming

This unit provides students with an introduction to industry-standard programming techniques from the domain of games development. Students will be exposed to an exploration of typical algorithm use-cases and case studies, coupled with the continued development of students' skills in an industry-standard programming language.

Rapid Game Prototyping

This unit challenges students to respond to regular prompts to develop small prototype games. This rapid prototyping-style approach encourages students to work quickly, to think creatively, to work collaboratively (both practically, but also in giving and receiving feedback and taking part in playtesting), and to experiment with ideas –providing a safe space for failure as a natural part of the creative process.

Computer Graphics

This unit offers students an introduction to an industry-standard API for graphical programming, exploring both the theoretical underpinning of rendering graphical output, and the practical considerations and applications of rendering interactive 3D graphics.

Study and assessment breakdown

Study

Year 1 25% lectures, seminars or similar; 75% independent study
Year 2 25% lectures, seminars or similar; 75% independent study
Year 3 20% lectures, seminars or similar; 80% independent study

Assessment

Year 1 100% coursework
Year 2 100% coursework
Year 3 100% coursework

Optional foundation year

Study 30% lectures, seminars or similar; 70% independent study
Assessment 80% coursework; 20% examination

Placement options

If you opt for the four-year placement route your third year will be spent on placement.

In your final year, you'll be ready to apply your knowledge and skills and learn about advanced games development techniques. You will also undertake a substantial games project, the product of which will be the centrepiece of your degree work portfolio. Please note that the following list of units is indicative and may be subject to change.

Core units

Indie Game Development

This unit offers students the opportunity to explore the world of indie game development –engaging with the process of setting up, and running, a business, and considering and reflecting on the advantages, and challenges, of working in very small game development teams.

Game Engines

This unit offers students the opportunity to take a deeper dive under the surface of game engines, exploring the inner workings of industry-standard tools and furthering their understanding of how to build, extend and customise game engines.

VFX and Games Production Studio

Students will take part in a simulated studio environment, working collaboratively towards, and across, a range of projects. Students will need to engage with industry-standard tools and techniques for both production and project management and will need to liaise and partner with studio managers to deliver professional-standard projects.

Synoptic Project

The synoptic project allows students to consolidate their learning from their degree programme into a final project, bringing together ideas and techniques from throughout their study. From this project, students will produce the centrepiece of their degree work portfolio.

Optional units

Mobile Computing

This unit offers students the opportunity to explore the development of applications designed to run on mobile computing devices. Students will gain practical experience of using device emulators, frameworks, APIs and libraries for the development of mobile apps that utilise specialist features of mobile devices.

Rapid Applied Problem Solving

This unit challenges students to develop their problem-solving skills under pressure. By participating in a series of rapid, applied problem solving challenges, students will develop core essential skills aimed at bridging the employment gap: Students will become well-versed in analysing problems, identifying appropriate algorithms and data structures, creatively solving those problems, implementing and evaluating their solutions. Students will enhance their employability by practising assessment tasks commonly used in tech industry recruitment.

Research in Computing

The Research in Computing option cluster offers students the opportunity to engage with the Department of Computing and Mathematics' Centre for Advanced Computational Science, by choosing an option which relates to one of the centre's main themes. By undertaking a focused research study in a specialist area, students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge computational research informed by world-leading theoretical and applied research.

User Experience and Interaction Design

Stressing the importance of a user-centred design approach from the outset, this unit affords students the chance to widen their knowledge of the ways in which humans interact with digital systems and services. It draws upon theories and principles from human-computer interaction, user experience, and interaction design, exploring how these can be applied and evaluated in a variety of technological contexts with the overarching aim of promoting an improved and impactful solution.

Study and assessment breakdown

Study

Year 1 25% lectures, seminars or similar; 75% independent study
Year 2 25% lectures, seminars or similar; 75% independent study
Year 3 20% lectures, seminars or similar; 80% independent study

Assessment

Year 1 100% coursework
Year 2 100% coursework
Year 3 100% coursework

Optional foundation year

Study 30% lectures, seminars or similar; 70% independent study
Assessment 80% coursework; 20% examination

Placement options

Department of Computing and Mathematics

Our Department of Computing and Mathematics is a vibrant community of staff and students, which prides itself on internal and external collaboration.

The department is committed to teaching and research that addresses societal challenges through disciplines like artificial intelligence, big data, computational fluid dynamics, cyber security, dynamical systems, the internet of things, smart cities, robotics and virtual reality.

More About the Department

Taught by Experts

Your studies are supported by a team of committed and enthusiastic teachers and researchers, experts in their chosen field. We also work with external professionals, many of whom are Manchester Met alumni, to enhance your learning and appreciation of the wider subject.

Meet the experts

Entry Requirements

112-120

UCAS Tariff points

A levels – to include grade C in one of the following subjects: IT, Computer Science or Mathematics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (1080) in IT or Computing – DMM

Pass Access to HE Diploma in IT, Computing or Science with a minimum score of 112 UCAS Tariff points.

Equivalent qualifications and combinations will be considered, including Extended Project (EPQ). Other AS levels (or qualifications equivalent to AS level) are not accepted.

Please contact the University directly if you are unsure whether you meet the minimum entry requirements for the course.

Specific GCSE Requirements

GCSE grade C/4 or above in English Language or Pass in Level 2 Functional Skills English

and

GCSE grade C/4 or above in Mathematics or Pass in Level 2 Functional Skills Mathematics.

112-120

UCAS Tariff points

A levels – to include grade C in one of the following subjects: IT, Computer Science or Mathematics.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (1080) in IT or Computing – DMM

Pass Access to HE Diploma in IT, Computing or Science with a minimum score of 112 UCAS Tariff points.

Equivalent qualifications and combinations will be considered, including Extended Project (EPQ). Other AS levels (or qualifications equivalent to AS level) are not accepted.

Please contact the University directly if you are unsure whether you meet the minimum entry requirements for the course.

International Baccalaureate points

26 IB Diploma Points including HL 5 in IT and HL 4 or SL 5 in English and Mathematics

IELTS score required for international students

6.0 with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of course start date

There's further information for international students on our international website if you're applying with non-UK qualifications.

Fees and Funding

UK and Channel Island Students

Full-time fee: £9,250 per year. This tuition fee is agreed subject to UK government policy and parliamentary regulation and may increase each academic year in line with inflation or UK government policy for both new and continuing students.

EU and Non-EU International Students

Full-time fee: £18,000 per year. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Additional Information

A degree typically comprises 360 credits, a DipHE 240 credits, a CertHE 120 credits, and an integrated masters 480 credits. The tuition fee for the placement year for those courses that offer this option is £1,850, subject to inflationary increases based on government policy and providing you progress through the course in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study). The tuition fee for the study year abroad for those courses that offer this option is £1,385, subject to inflationary increases based on government policy and providing you progress through the course in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Additional Costs

specialist Costs

Compulsory estimate: £100

Optional estimate: £400

All of the books required for the course are available from the library. The University also has PC labs and a laptop loan service. However, many students choose to buy some of the core textbooks for the course and/or a laptop. Campus printing costs start from 5p per page. Estimated costs are £300 for a laptop and up to £100 each year for books and printing.

placement Costs

Students can choose to go on a placement which might incur additional travel and accommodation costs - these would be offset by salary on a paid placement and will vary by location.

professional Costs

Compulsory estimate: £30

Students can choose to join the BCS at any point in their study. It is not required but is useful. The annual charge is identified for every year. There is also an option to take course membership, which costs £20 for one year and £30 for four years.

other Costs

Students may incur costs for external storage media, such as USB or HDD drives. Level 5 students are encouraged to attend events as part of the Industry and Community Engagement unit - this may incur some travel costs.

Funding

Find out more about financing your studies and whether you may qualify for one of our bursaries and scholarships

Money Matters

First Generation

Dedicated funding and support for first generation students

Learn more

Career Prospects

The rapidly changing digital, new media and creative industries offer career opportunities in an extremely wide range of roles. A degree in computer games development will prepare you for a career in games design and games programming, but also in broader roles such as a software developer or UX analyst, and in roles managing technology to support a range of public and private sector organisations.

In addition, the skills you learn on this degree are highly valued by a range of employers and opportunities may exist in areas such as project management, scientific research, education and many more.

Manchester is a major hub for the digital technology industry. The close proximity of MediaCity and a large number of both established companies and innovative tech start-ups means that the opportunities for technological collaboration are huge. Situated in the 'Oxford Road Corridor' innovation district of Manchester, the University and the Department of Computing and Mathematics are perfectly placed to work with key players in the digital technology and new media sectors.

94%

of BSc (Hons) Computer Games Technology students are overall satisfied with their course.

2020 National Student Survey. From 2021 onwards, this course has been renamed as BSc (Hons) Computer Games Development.

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How to apply

You can apply for the full-time option of this course through UCAS.

Apply now

UCAS code(s)

CGD1

Institution code: M40

You can review our current Terms and Conditions before you make your application. If you are successful with your application, we will send you up to date information alongside your offer letter.

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Related Courses

Programme Review
Our programmes undergo an annual review and major review (normally at 6 year intervals) to ensure an up-to-date curriculum supported by the latest online learning technology. For further information on when we may make changes to our programmes, please see the changes section of our Terms and Conditions .

Important Notice
This online prospectus provides an overview of our programmes of study and the University. We regularly update our online prospectus so that our published course information is accurate. Please check back to the online prospectus before making an application to us to access the most up to date information for your chosen course of study.

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