Computer Science (Games) BSc(Hons)

Overview

Computer games development is an increasing significant sector in the computer industry. This course enables you to develop the technical skills needed to work effectively in this growing field.

Course duration
Full-time: 3 years
Part-time: 6 years (max 8 years)
With placement year 4 years (max 8 years)

UCAS code G455
Course content

Course structure

This course is part of the computing undergraduate programme which offers a range of different specialist degrees. A common first semester allows students to become familiar with different aspects of computing before choosing the area in which they wish to specialise.
A distinctive feature of the programme is year 3 which may be spent on a paid professional placement in a leading organisation. This enables you to use your accumulated specialist skills and provides invaluable experience when approaching the job market after graduating.

Areas of study

Computer games can be broken down into three core elements: the engine that drives the dynamics of the game, the application interface and the design of the user experience. Students develop expertise in these elements, based on the sound foundation of computing knowledge and skills needed to develop robust, reliable and extendable software. In addition, they examine the ways in which the dynamics of the real world can be modelled mathematically and how these models can then be simulated within the world of the computer game. They also develop an awareness of the theoretical underpinnings that support the successful production of entertaining, motivating and accessible games.

Syllabus

Year 1: common subjects
Programming
Database
Requirements Analysis
Web Design
Human Computer Interaction
Internet Computing
Professional Practice
Computing in Context
Year 1: course-specific subjects
Mathematics
Maintaining Computer Systems
Year 2
Games Development
3-D Graphics and Animation
Object-oriented Design and Implementation
Specification and Reasoning
Computer Systems Architecture
Intelligent Systems
Year 3
Optional placement
Final year
A major project
Client Server Technologies
Computer Graphics Algorithms
Real-time Systems and Concurrency
Emerging Technologies
AI for Games
Options
Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements
individual offers may vary
A-levels:
BBB.
BTEC
DMM.
International Baccalaureate:
32 points.
Access to HE Diploma
pass (at least 45 credits at level 3), with 24 credits at merit or above. Level 3 units in computing required.
GCSE (minimum grade C) or Access Equivalent
at least three subjects including English language and mathematics or a science.
Foundation degree/HND
may enable you to start the course in year 2 or 3. HNC may also count towards direct entry.
For non-native speakers of English:
IELTS 6.0 overall, with 6.0 in writing and a minimum of 5.5 in the other elements.
Location

Location Moulsecoomb
Career opportunities

Graduates are well placed to take up positions within the computer games industry.

Visit the careers centre website.
Fees and costs

The fees listed here are for full-time courses beginning in the academic year 2012-13. Further tuition fees are payable for each subsequent year of study.

The tuition fee you have to pay depends on a number of factors including the kind of course you take, and whether you study full- or part-time. If you are studying part-time you will normally be charged on a pro rata basis depending on the number of modules you take. Different rules apply to research degrees - please contact the Doctoral College for advice.

To help you plan for your time here we will be providing further information about what is included in your tuition fee, and any optional costs you may need to budget for, later in the autumn.

Our website wwww.brighton.ac.uk/money provides advice about funding and scholarships as well as further information about fees and advice on international and island fee paying status.

BSc(Hons) Computer Science (Games) [J4EG027]

UK/EU (Full Time) 9,000 GBP
Island Students (Full Time) 9,000 GBP
International (Full Time) 12,900 GBP