Length of course

3 years full time, 4 years full time sandwich

UCAS code

GG46; with Foundation GG4P

Location

Central London (Cavendish).

The computer games industry is growing rapidly, employing a large number of people with skills both in the programming and design of computer games. There is great demand for skilled and educated individuals to work in a variety of careers, and this course will give you the technical and creative skills required to compete in this industry. It covers all aspects of the computer games development process, from game programming to game design and production, with emphasis on the technical skills for the new era of game programmers.

The needs of the industry are at the heart of this course, and there are a number of talks from key industry organisations as well as visits to computer shows and fairs. The course is part of the Westminster Skillset Media Academy Network.

Course Content

This course will prepare you to work in an increasingly challenging and rewarding field by giving you a clear perspective of the current nature and practice of games development. In Year 1 (Credit level 4) you will be introduced to the main fundamental concepts  and in Year 2 and Year 3 (Credit Level 5 and 6) you will follow the specialist themes which interest you the most.

Year 1 (Credit Level 4)

Year 1 modules provide an underpinning of the subject area. You are introduced to computer programming concepts, the hardware and software components of computer games, and the maths which are the foundations on which computer games are developed. These subjects are studied alongside the introduction to games development and creative games design and playability. The principal language of the first year is C++.

Year 2 (Credit Level 5)

In Year 2 you continue to develop your programming skills by implementing prototypes of 2D games engines using C++. You are also introduced to 3D graphics programming, real-time graphics and game platforms. The maths becomes more advanced and games physics required in the games programming are introduced. Other subjects covered include mobile programming, professional practice and an introduction to 3D modelling. There are also options in the second year that allow you to specialise and continue in your final year.

Year 3 (Credit Level 6)

In Year 3 you focus on advanced programming techniques such as the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in computer games and networking design and programming. You have the chance to develop a large scale practical project which will be part of your games portfolio.

Sandwich placement year

Between Year 2 and Year 3 (Credit Level 5 and 6) you can choose to take a year-long placement to gain real industrial experience, which is invaluable for your final year of study and long-term career prospects. This offers you an ideal chance to put into practice the skills you have learnt in the first two years of the course. It also gives you the opportunity to develop a better understanding of the needs of the industry, and the experience gained from a placement often means that you are much better equipped to gain employment after your final year at the University.

Teaching and Assessment

The course combines lecture, tutorial and practical laboratory elements. Formal exams are supported by continuous assessment.

Associated Careers

You will have the ability to address the multidisciplinary needs of the games industries. Recognising that the industry relies on the work of multidisciplinary groups comprising of programmers, designers and artists, the course ensures that you will be able to work and communicate effectively in such groups.

Entry Requirements

Qualification type Grade/points

• A Levels CCC/AA
• International Baccalaureate 28 points
• BTEC National Diploma/Certificate MMM/DD
• Advanced Diploma Grade C in IT or Engineering and relevant ASL at Grade C
  

If you do not have the required qualifications you should consider our Foundation Course.

Course Leader

Anastassia Angelopolou
Email: agelopa@wmin.ac.uk

Further information on fees, scholarships and bursaries

Admissions Office

T:  +44 (0)20 7911 5883
F: +44 (0)20 7911 5079
E: cav-admissions@westminster.ac.uk

Apply