Video Game Development, Undergraduate - BSc (Hons) - 2022/23 entry

Developing you as a professional developer

The course covers core programming languages and video game development tools, as well as contemporary agile software development techniques to make you a competent and adaptable programmer, capable of finding employment in the sector or preparing you for further academic study.

The course starts with introducing you to computer programming by teaching you the most valuable langue for developing interaction online, JavaScript. Youll then be introduced to C# and object-oriented software, and will be given a range of interactive products to develop using both languages. As you move into your second year of study, youll concentrate on the most powerful and efficient language for game development, such as C++

Your first position in the video game industry

Building upon your core language and software development skills, in the first year you will be tasked with a specific role within our in-house game development studio over the summer term. This work experience gives you the opportunity to apply the knowledge and professional practices youve learnt on the course in a safe and supportive environment. Typically for these projects youll be using industry standard game development tools such as Unity and Unreal.

These summer projects have in the past been mentored and supported by external partners including Red Bee Media, FreeStyleGames and Codemasters. The work students produce during these summer placements can act as excellent portfolio pieces, which demonstrate their ability as both a professional artist and effective team member.

Putting you in control of your final project

Throughout the two years you will be provided with a structured programme of learning, in line with your chosen specialism of video game development. The course culminates with a project you define yourself which uses a specific programming language and technology you have learned on the course, such as JavaScript, C#, C++, Three.js, SFML, Unity and Unreal.

You have the choice of either proposing your own individual project or collaborating with other students to create another video game project for your portfolio.

Best of class facilities and staff

Teaching takes place in a modern production studio based in Birmingham city centre, where youll be provided with studio space to complete your projects.

You will be taught by staff with significant experience in the video game development industry, having worked with game developers including Psygnosis, Rage Software, Codemasters, FreeStyleGames and EA Games.

Real experience

By the time you graduate, a whole year before most students, youll have two years of tangible games development studio experience under your belt, ready to launch your dream career as a games developer.

 Alternatively, you can choose to apply for one of our one-year Gamer Camp courses, to gain even more in-depth skills, and experience.

Certificate of General Secondary Education 60% PLUS Community College Diploma/Associate Degree with minimum grade 60% / 2.5 / C+

Note: Engineering courses require minimum C+ score in Mathematics.

Even though you may have met the stated requirements, if your first language is not English, we may ask you to take an additional English Language Test when you arrive.

Based on the results of the test, you may be required to attend regular English classes to improve your level of competence. English classes are provided free of charge and are available to all non-UK students who wish to attain greater fluency in English.

Experience on the course

Courses within the School of Games, Film and Animation are built upon workplace simulation and industry-standard work, ensuring you behave less like a student and more as a professional, gaining the workplace experience and attributes you need.

As well as gaining course-specific skills, you could also gain broader tools through our Graduate+ programme, which will help enhance your employment options by helping with careers development, employability activities, volunteering and part-time work experience.

Leading up to and upon graduation

At the end of your studies you’ll complete a final major project, which may lead you to working directly with a client. This direct contact will give you the experience, confidence and freedom to put into action all you’ve learned on your studies. Allied with this course-specific experience, you will also have access to a range of support staff and services from the University’s Careers Service, who can help with:

• Reviewing CVs, covering letters and application forms
• Career planning and decision making
• Preparing for interviews and assessment centres
• Developing portfolios
• Networking with employers
• Advice about self-employment and entrepreneurship