Games Computing BSc (Hons)

What will I study each year on the BSc in Games Computing?

To begin with, you will study computer science essentials like computational thinking, programming and data, you will also get your first introduction to games development.

Thanks to some shared modules, you will get to know other students on our computer science degrees and make connections between the different topics we teach. 

Then, you become a specialist, focusing almost entirely on games computing. You will study games programming using OOP, C++ and Unreal, as well as games design. You will also get the chance to work on a consultancy project, delivering solutions to real-world contexts, gaining practical experience of the real-world application of games computing. 

Your final year makes you an expert, ready for the world of work. You study 3D graphics programming, advanced games programming and complete a group computing task with fellow students.

You also complete your dissertation in your final year. This is your chance to impress employers by designing, building and evaluating your own gaming project. 

How will I be assessed during my degree?

During your course, the assessments are designed to help you develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required of a computer science graduate. You will be assessed through a variety of different methods including exams, reports, presentations, individual, group and project work.

• See all the Modules for this course

Who teaches the BSc in Games Computing?

You will be taught by a range of academic staff who bring a wealth of professional experience from the computer science sector.

What you study is shaped by their research, which is classed as both ‘world-leading’ and ‘internationally excellent’ (REF, 2021).

As well as teaching you and conducting research, your tutors work with other organisations and regularly publish work in prestigious publications, contributing solutions to business computing challenges.

Computer & Information Science programmes at Northumbria take place in a dynamic learning environment where you will have access to an expert team of staff - developing in-depth technical expertise as well as career-ready skills like teamwork, communication and critical thinking. 

 View all Staff profiles.

Where will I study?

The Computer Science facilities at Northumbria will provide you with a wide range of learning opportunities in a challenging, stimulating and dynamic learning environment. Specifically, those studying Games Computing will have access to the Specialist Games Labs where you can work with the latest software and Games Development kits.

During your studies, you will have the opportunity to access state of the art facilities and equipment which will encourage your individual intellectual freedom and allow your creative vision to become a reality. Our £7m Computer and Information Sciences building was opened in 2018, especially for our computing students, and it is packed with high quality services to support your learning. See a virtual tour here.

You will have access to dedicated computing areas which you can use during free periods and into the evenings and weekends. These areas are useful spaces for completing your coursework, stocked with the latest PC, Mac and Linux machines. Plus, our award-winning Library has lots of resources and study spaces to support your learning, with professional support services for students at all levels of study.

Eco-friendly building

We are proud to say that the Computer and Information Science building at Northumbria University is a sustainable ‘Smart Building’, which is able to run itself efficiently and sustainably. This ‘Living Lab’ supports student learning and provides useful links between sustainability and technology.

Institute of Coding Partnership

Northumbria also contributes to the Institute of Coding - a £40m collaboration between 25 UK universities – delivering education to people of all ages, helping them gain the skills they need to become the next generation of digital talent.

How does BSc (Hons) Games Computing apply its research focus to teaching?

We are living in a digital age where all of our lives are impacted by computer sciences and digital technologies, from cyber security and computational intelligence to games and visual effects, meaning it is essential that research continues to broaden our understanding.

In studying Computer Sciences at Northumbria University, you will be immersed in a research-rich environment with new and exciting insights into the discipline by our rapidly expanding Computer and Information Science research groups, helping to overcome challenges and understand the future of technology. 

With access to diverse research work carried out by our expert academic staff, we seek to promote innovative and excellent learning and teaching practice, which will improve your student experience here at Northumbria.

What job can I get with a degree in Games Computing?

This course covers a broad range of computing specialisms and will open the door to a vast range of careers within this industry. Our existing games graduates are employed in a wide range of games companies, varying from small start-ups to triple-A studios.

We place a real emphasis on developing the transferable skills that will pave the way towards your success. These include communication, analytical and problem-solving skills, technical skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

As a games computing graduate, you could enter a career in areas such as, games development, software engineering, systems analysis and design, computer networks, consultancy, database development and management, software testing, artificial intelligence embedded systems, IT management, and web development.

Here at Northumbria, we know how valuable work experience can be in terms of giving you a head start in your career, so we enable you to gain real-world experience on a year long professional placement.

Previous students from the department have had the opportunity to go on a placement in blue chip companies such as Hewlett Packard and GlaxoSmithKline and at CERN in Geneva. CERN has doubled the number of students it will take on placement, reflecting the respect and value placed on this degree by prestigious industry professionals.

You will also have the opportunity to study abroad year at a partner institution, enabling you to gain global perspective on your subject and boost your future career prospects.