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Introduction
The emphasis of this programme is software development, computer graphics and computer games. Choose this course to become skilled and knowledgeable in the technical aspects of software development, with a specific focus on games. Graduates of this programme are likely to find employment either within the games industry or with specialist software organisations.
You will build a solid foundation of skills and knowledge on this programme. You will be equipped with knowledge of the current state of the industry and there is also an emphasis on skills for lifelong learning, so you will be able to update your skills throughout your career.
This programme allows students to develop a broad range of skills in the Computer Games area and will also allow students to pursue more specialist interests.
As a graduate of this course, your employment in this field is likely to start as a member of a team, conceiving, designing, developing and implementing complex software for games or related software development industries.
PATHWAY OPTIONS AND HOW TO APPLY
Computing (Games Development)
BSc (Hons) | 3 Year Degree Programme (Levels 4 to 6)
UCAS Code: 126S
BSc (Hons) | 4 Year Programme with Foundation Entry (Level 3 to 6)
UCAS Code: DGV2
HND | 2 Year Programme (Levels 4 to 5)
UCAS Code: 478T
STEM Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics (Computing Stream)
1 Year Foundation Programme (Level 3 to 4)
UCAS Code: SCT1
Full-time applicants who wish to start in September should apply through UCAS. Part-time applicants should apply through the University.
Why choose this course?
1. Taught by staff with relevant academic and games industry experience
2. Discover the secrets to Games Development using C/C++
3. Cover the essentials of real-time Graphics programming, Virtual Reality systems and Artificial Intelligence
4. Gain hands-on experience using the latest industry-standard game engines and consoles
5. Develop the knowledge needed to secure a career in the computer games and software engineering industries
Overview
The course focuses on designing, implementing, testing and maintenance of high-quality computer games. The student will focus on acquiring and using the expertise required by a professional programmer to create solutions to large and complex problems. The expertise and skills you develop from engineering computer games as part of a team is highly regarded by employers.
Modules
Foundation Year (Cert HE STEM)
• Academic Skills (20 credits; compulsory)
• Analysing and Solving Problems (20 credits; compulsory)
• Integrating Project (20 credits; compulsory)
• Introduction to Computer Programming (20 credits; compulsory)
• Introduction to Computer Systems (20 credits; compulsory)
• Introduction to Mathematics and Science (20 credits; compulsory).
Year One – Level 4 (HNC, HND & BSc)
• Computer Architecture and Operating Systems (20 credits; compulsory)
• Game Design and History (20 credits; compulsory)
• Learning in the Digital Era (20 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
• Mathematics (20 credits; compulsory)
• Networks and Cyber Security Essentials (20 Credits; Compulsory)
• Software Development (20 credits; compulsory).
Year Two – Level 5 (HND & BSc)
• Advanced Software Development (20 credits; compulsory)
• Changemakers: Creativity and Value Creation (20 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
• Data Security and Compliance (20 credits; compulsory)
• Games Architecture and Mechanics (20 credits; compulsory)
• Indie Game Development (20 credits; compulsory)
• Software Engineering Principles and Testing (20 credits; compulsory).
Year Three – Level 6 (BSc)
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (20 credits; compulsory)
• Emerging Trends (20 credits; compulsory / optional (PT))
• GPU Programming (20 credits; compulsory)
• Graphics and Games Programming (20 credits; compulsory)
• Independent Project (40 credits; compulsory; Graduate Attributes Framework module)
• Industrial Based Research (20 credits; optional (PT)).
Entry Criteria
BSc (Hons) Computing (Games Development) - UCAS CODE: 126S
104 UCAS tariff points (previously 260) to include:
Two C grades at A-Level/AVCE; or
BTEC National Diploma grades Merit, Pass, Pass; or
BTEC National Certificate grades Merit, Merit; or
NVQ Level 3 – Pass
Subjects at Advanced Level should include ICT, Computing, Maths, Physics or similar.
GCSE Maths Level 4 (previously C) or above is required.
For Foundation Year entry, see below
HND Computing (Games Development) - UCAS CODE: 478T
48 UCAS tariff points (previously 120) to include:
A-C grade at A-Level/AVCE; or
BTEC National Diploma/Certificate/Award - Pass; or
NVQ Level 3 - Pass.
Subjects at Advanced Level should include Maths, ICT, Physics or similar.
GCSE Maths Level 4 (previously C) or above is preferred.
HNC Computing (Games Development) - UCAS CODE: 455H
40 UCAS tariff points (previously 100)
Grades are important; however, our offers are not solely based on academic results. We are interested in creative people that demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen subject area and therefore we welcome applications from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. To assess student suitability for their chosen course we normally arrange interviews for all applicants at which your skills, achievements and life experience will be considered as well as your qualifications.
Foundation Entry:
BSc (Hons) | 4 Year Programme with Foundation Entry (Levels 3 to 6)
UCAS Code: DGV1
STEM Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics (Computing Stream)
1 Year Foundation Programme (Level 3 to 4)
UCAS Code: SCT1
Other:
Applications from those offering alternative qualifications are welcome.
ENTRY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Home Office Share Code
For EU students only.
IF no Qualification
Please provide CV with at least 2 years of work experience, and employee reference letter.
Assessment
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. INTERNAL ENGLISH TEST if you don't have an English accredited certificate
2. Academic Interview
Assessment
The School of Applied Computing aims to produce graduates that help shape the future of software engineering. The course content is contemporary and shaped for employability through close links with local and national employers.
Students are assessed through a combination of worksheets, practicals, presentations, projects and examinations. Module assessment is often by assignment, or assignment and examination. The final mark for some modules may include one or more pieces of coursework set and completed during the module. Project work is assessed by written report and presentation.
Students are encouraged to use our links with Software Alliance Wales and Go Wales to work on commercial schemes for their Major Project module. Go Wales provides the opportunity of paid work placements with local businesses.
Career Opportunities
Our graduates have excellent employment prospects in the computing, teaching, lecturing and ICT industry, as well as in other areas of the economy. Recent statistics show that the vast majority are following their chosen career paths within six months of graduating.
Graduates would seek positions as Junior Programmer, Lead Programmer, Engine/Tools Programmer, Graphics/Special Effects/Rendering Programmer, Audio Programmer/Engineer, Artificial Intelligence Programmer, Networking/Multiplayer, Networking Programmer, Mobile Games Programmer, Physics Programmer, Software Engineer, Software Developer, etc.
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