Computer Games (Design)

Starting with fundamental design tools, the course focuses on creating and prototyping compelling games that engage players and build game experiences. You'll be learning the production pipeline, and building computer games using state-of-the-art game engines. As part of your learning journey, you will also learn how to build unique game controllers, work in a motion capture studio, explore virtual reality or even build your own independent game development studio.

Throughout your studies, you'll benefit from access to dedicated gaming labs providing all the specialised software you'll need: Unreal, Unity, Visual Studio, 3D studio max, ZBrush and Substance to name just a few. You'll also have access to console development kits, a motion capture studio, a mobile devices lab and a range of consumer gaming/VR hardware: all for student use.

Bringing a modern game to market requires a broad range of skills and specialisms. Throughout your degree you will learn to collaborate in multi-disciplinary teams, bringing these varied specialisms together to create polished and engaging gaming experiences.

The course team maintain excellent links with industry, and these links are often called upon for guest lectures and to be involved in the courses industry advisory board. This board supports the planning of the curriculum, ensuring you are learning the skills most in-demand by industry. Companies previously involved in the board include; Sony Computer Games Europe, Unity Technologies, Sumo Digital, Bitmap Bureau, Stainless Games, and Aardvark Swift.

This video 'Are you Ready?' is available as a text transcript, with a description of visuals.

Entry requirements

As a general guide, we look for qualifications that are equivalent to the British high school A-levels (Bachelor of Arts/Commerce - Pass). A portfolio is also required for most of our art and design courses. 

Any student applying for the first year of a full-time/sandwich undergraduate course must apply through UCAS (University and Colleges Admissions Service). This includes mature, overseas and EU students.

Nearly all schools and colleges offer their students the facility of applying electronically through the UCAS website using 'Apply'; it may also be used by those applying independently in the UK and overseas. This facility and all course information can be found on the UCAS website: www.ucas.com.

Your application should reach UCAS by 26 January if you hope to enter a course the following autumn. Early application is advised for the most popular subject areas. Late applications may be made until the end of June. The UCAS Code for the University is S30, code name SOLNT.