Why study this course?

Our Games Programming BSc degree will enable you to develop the specialist knowledge and key skills needed to join this thriving industry. You’ll be joining a supportive and friendly community of highly motivated games students who work hard to achieve their goals.

More about this course

You'll start by building a strong base in C++ programming, with mathematics and physics for game development, as well as gaining skills in console hardware architecture and game design. As you progress through the degree you'll use different graphics libraries and engines to make 2D and 3D games.

You'll develop specialist skills in physical computing, virtual reality and artificial intelligence while becoming proficient in a range of relevant programming and scripting languages.

Each year there are core modules on this course that enable artists and programmers to work together and achieve common goals - designing and producing innovative games. This aspect of the student experience is highly commended by our games industry partner TIGA and our industry steering group, as it mimics professional practice.

We actively encourage you to engage in public competitions and gaming events such as Game Jams, and we hold an annual Summer Show where students at all levels have the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider professional audience.

Visit our creative technology blog to see some fantastic work from our students.

You can get a taste for life at our School of Computing and Digital Media by taking a look at our showcase of recent student work.

Assessment

You will be assessed primarily by coursework assignments. On-going assessments are also taken during set (timetabled) classroom times.

Assessments will include peer review, opportunities for Quality Assurance (QA), detailed feedback and guidance from tutors.

Coursework, presentations and group work will require you to:

  • meet programming briefs
  • demonstrate an understanding of work flow and project management
  • demonstrate good communication skills
  • write and present reports on development
  • demonstrate subject knowledge and research techniques.

Professional accreditation

The School of Computing and Digital Media (SCDM) is a member of the games industry body TIGA. An aim of this new degree is to improve the potential for possible submission for future TIGA accreditation.

Fees and key information

Course type
Undergraduate
UCAS code GG48
Entry requirements View
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Entry requirements

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

  • a minimum of grades CCC in three A levels (or a minimum of 96 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification, e.g. BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma/Diploma; or Advanced Diploma; or Progression Diploma; or Access to HE Diploma of 60 credits)
  • GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C/grade 4 or above (or equivalent)

Applicants with relevant professional qualifications or extensive professional experience will also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you don't have traditional qualifications or can't meet the entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, you may still be able to gain entry by completing our Games Programming (including foundation year) BSc (Hons).

Accelerated study

It may be possible to gain credit for any courses or relevant work experience you've gained prior to your course at London Met. This process, known as the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL), avoids the duplication of learning and will enable you to gain exemption from certain parts or levels of a course. 

There are two different types of APL. The first is Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL): If you hold a prior qualification, for example, from another university, this may exempt you from part of your course.

The second type is Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning
(APEL): Similarly, if you've taken work, paid or voluntary, that has resulted in learning skills or knowledge equivalent to a module you'll be studying, you may apply for Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course at London Met. Find out more about applying for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL).

English language requirements

To study a degree at London Met, you must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. If you require a Student visa you may need to provide the results of a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. This course requires you to meet our standard requirements.

If you need (or wish) to improve your English before starting your degree, the University offers a Pre-sessional Academic English course to help you build your confidence and reach the level of English you require.

Modular structure

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2023/24 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year 1 modules include:

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Thursday afternoon

The module introduces students to the basics of Information Technology; past, current and future trend in computer and gaming systems. The detailed design of a small scale Gaming System is presented where students have the opportunity to directly program the hardware. Students will learn how a knowledge of assembly language and different compilers should inform the development of higher level programming languages, such as C++, in order to produce optimal code. Students will develop expertise and transferable skills in writing for a particular handheld gaming platform.

The module aims are:

To introduce students to the fundamental concepts of Information Technology and basic networking,
To provide a working technical knowledge of modern computer and gaming systems and their respective components,
Build awareness of assembly and compilers so as to inform the development of optimal programming code
Gain skills in interfacing assembly with a high level language for a console emulator
Gain skills in interfacing assembly with a high level language on a PC.

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Tuesday morning

This module provides an introduction to the topic of computer games from a variety of perspectives. It is designed to help students understand and appreciate many of the different technical and psychological approaches games designers and developers use in their work.

It will also facilitate the development of the skills needed when developing gaming applications using contemporary scripting languages.

Students will also start to develop a rolling CV and web-based portfolio.

AIMS
- provide an understanding of the history of computer game design and an appreciation of complexity of the topic, including the technology required for developing complex interactive systems
- develop creative and lateral thinking in response to a range of stimuli with particular reference to game design
- develop communication and study skills
- implement scripting and programming capabilities in the area of casual games
- equip students for employment in the games industry, web and digital media industries.

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Monday afternoon

This module is essentially an introduction to programming for computer games, intended to build students' confidence and interest in technical aspects of games development. Students will develop an understanding of the skills required to build games for different platforms, including console, web, computer and mobile.

• introduce students to C++ and other games programming languages
• develop skills in graphics programming and simple maths and physics in code
• develop the necessary communication skills required for working in teams in the games and digital media industries
• enable students to design and produce simple 2D games to a high standard

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Thursday morning

This module develops a range of mathematical techniques including set theory, logic, relations and functions, algebra, differentiation and integration. The techniques provide the foundation for further study of Mathematics, Computer Science and Computer Games Programming and Computer Systems Engineering.

Year 2 modules include:

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Tuesday morning

The module provides further development of programming skills at application and system level across a range of platforms. Some of the problems of system independence will be addressed along with inclusion of library applications in the different environments.

Students cover the intermediate part of C++, and consider how to optimise code for different platforms. The module makes use of a pre-built low-level game engine that helps students build a 2D game.

Students will be introduced to more advanced features of C++ such as operator overloading, templates, the STL, file handling and game/system design principles


The module aims are:
• to make students aware of the features in a programming language which makes it suitable for use in systems programming;
• to enable students to compare programming languages thus reinforcing transferable programming skills;
• to enable students to apply problem solving techniques in a specialised application area.
• provide overview of the main methods/techniques for model design, simulation, analysis;
• develop practical skills by practical coursework implementation;
• build awareness of coding practice for different platforms with respect to optimisation.

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Monday morning

Students will be working individually and in teams to research and develop a prototype product within the area of Augmented/Virtual Reality.

Aims
• gain awareness of new technological developments and their impact on toys and games
• develop skills in concept design and blue-printing
• increase knowledge and skills in the area of physical computing
• develop written and verbal communication skills

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Monday afternoon

This module builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in Level 4, introducing students to 3D graphics programming, using managed code. During the module, students will work in teams to develop a 3D game and consider some of the economic and marketing issues associated with production.

The module aims to:
· provide an understanding of the mathematics associated with 3D space
· introduce 3D graphics and audio pipelines
· foster students' programming and asset production skills
· develop creative skills by producing a 3D game
· develop students' profiles of personal/professional development

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Tuesday afternoon

The module is designed to broaden student understanding and develop practical skills up to the advanced level in programming applications for computer graphics, imaging and the associated technology with the focus on game programming. The theoretical work is designed to give a broad-based understanding of the graphics devices, graphics/images and shaders as well as graphics API (Applications Programming Interface) used in a variety of applications (including game development industry). The practical work is designed for programming of computer games (prototypes) or computer graphics and images as game elements for display on relevant devices.
Students will gain an overview of the physical processes of graphics/image enhancement and processing, as well as an understanding of the software framework necessary to produce graphics/images and shaders including for mobile devices.

Prior knowledge and Skills: This module requires a successful completion of Level 4, i.e. relevant knowledge and practical skills of the programming (preferably in C/C++, and in case of C# or Java student may face additional challenge to (re-)learn a new programming language).

AIMS
The main aim of the module is to provide an advanced level of knowledge and understanding of the entire programming workflow and relevant API for rendering computer graphics, image processing and visualisation.
This module aims to:
- enable students to understand the 2D/3D graphics API, the processes of computer graphics programming, storage, and visualisation of graphics/images on various display devices;
- develop communication and practical skills with particular reference to graphics programming and image processing as well as their visualisation;
- design and implement mathematical concepts and programming structures as well as algorithms in the area of graphics and image processing;
- equip students for employment in the variety of industries relying on computer graphics and image processing (computer games, Virtual Reality, simulations, aerospace or automotive industry, engineering, CAD/CAM and machine/robotic vision, medical applications, geo-survey, security and etc applications).

The module also aims to help students to continue development of a personal portfolio by adding a computer graphics application or game (prototype) that demonstrates understanding of the key principles and practical skills to use industry standard API for 2D/3D computer graphics programming and image processing in a variety of applications.

Year 3 modules include:

This module currently runs:
  • autumn semester - Thursday afternoon

This module provides an introduction to the field of Artificial Intelligence, from its historical context to its current state. Students will research an aspect of AI and work in teams to design an intelligent system and develop a simple prototype.

The module aims to
• to build students’ knowledge and understanding of AI and its range of applications;
• to enable students to use their skills and knowledge to design a contemporary intelligent system;
• to develop students’ critical faculties with respect to the ethics and the issues surrounding AI;
• to build skills in software engineering and prototype development

This module currently runs:
  • spring semester - Thursday afternoon

This module looks at the use of AI in the development of computer games, digital media and other products from a variety of perspectives. Students will undertake a small piece of research in this field and present their findings. This work will underpin a prototype, built using industry-standard tools and including a system model representation and a description of the final product.

This module is designed to further develop programming and game design and development skills. The module aims to:

· develop students' awareness of artificial intelligence and its current and potential
applications in the field of computer games, digital media and product design
- enable students to solve problems in designing and building complex game
artefacts;
· implement the production of complex game systems;
· develop communication skills with particular reference to artificial intelligence;
- develop research and presentation skills;
· equip students for employment in the games industry

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Wednesday afternoon

The Creative Technology Project module provides final year students with an opportunity to carry out an individual extended practical research project in an area of particular interest to them.

Students use this module to develop their skills in specific techniques and processes, and to extend knowledge and skills delivered elsewhere in the course curricula. The module aims to allow students to produce highly sophisticated portfolio pieces which they would be able to present to potential employers upon graduation.

This module currently runs:
  • autumn semester - Monday morning

This course allows students to build multiplayer games and learn what networking is all about. They will learn all about the networking theory and apply that to the server-side and client-side games code they will write.

Building Server/client code and gameplay
Learning about networking theory
Learning what makes a multiplayer game

There will be 2x course works to be completed.
CW1 – A basic networked chat application
CW2 – A full 2D or 3D multiplayer game

This module currently runs:
  • all year (September start) - Tuesday afternoon

This module is designed to give students the responsibility for working together as a large team, in order to design and build a 3D console game. Students will work in smaller sub-teams focusing on design or programming techniques or asset production.

The module provides students with the opportunity to take masterclasses in a variety of disciplines related to their chosen sphere of expertise, closely supervised by specialists from relevant industries.

Students will be expected to develop professional quality work to a specialist brief.

This module aims to:
- enable students to understand workflow models, styles of project management and the necessity of good communication skills in a team-based work environment
- implement art, design and/or programming capabilities in the area of computer games and digital media
- develop communication skills with particular reference to computer games and digital media
- equip students for employment in the area of computer games and digital media.

This module currently runs:
  • spring semester - Wednesday afternoon

This module gives students the opportunity to work with research-active staff on a project that deploys their existing skills. The supervisor will be working on a project that requires a contribution of computing, media, audio or 3D work. The student will develop the practical aspect (programming or designing or creating assets) in conjunction with the supervisor and be involved with the deployment and testing of the resource.

Students will be expected to contribute to the writing of any subsequent research papers.

Aims
• undertake some work on a research-related project;
• become more self-aware through reflection on the development of their abilities and attributes;
• enhance subject-specific knowledge, skills and abilities;
• explore research options available to them on graduation;
• enhance professional and personal development.

This module currently runs:
  • spring semester - Wednesday afternoon

The module enables students to undertake an appropriate short period of professional activity, related to their course at level 6, with a business or community organisation and to gain credit for their achievements. The activity can be a professional training, a volunteering activity, employment activity, an activity within the School of Computing and Digital Media, a placement or business start-up activity.

It is expected student should work for 150 hours which should be recorded clearly in the portfolio. The 150 hours can be completed in 25 working days in a FT mode, or spread over a semester in a PT mode.

Students should register with the module leader to be briefed on the module, undergo induction and Work Based Learning planning and to have the Work Based Learning approved, before they take up the opportunity. It is essential that students are made aware that both the “Work Based Learning agreement” and relevant “health and safety checklist” where applicable need to be approved before starting the learning activity.

The module aims to provide students with the opportunity to:
• gain a useful experience of the working environment and the career opportunities available on graduation.
• undertake a work-based project appropriate to their academic level.
• enhance and extend their learning experience by applying and building on their academic skills and abilities by tackling real life problems in the workplace.
• enhance professional and personal development.

Where this course can take you

Completing this degree will open up many job opportunities within the games and entertainment industry. Upon graduating you could find employment as an animator, games developer, games designer, software engineer, visual effects artist, applications developer or a multimedia programmer.

Previous graduates have taken up positions at employers including Sky, BBC, ITV, Sega, Lionheart, Rare, Rocksteady, Media Molecule, Football Superstars and Sports Interactive.

Some of our graduates have also set up their own businesses.

Additional costs

Please note, in addition to the tuition fee there may be additional costs for things like equipment, materials, printing, textbooks, trips or professional body fees.

Additionally, there may be other activities that are not formally part of your course and not required to complete your course, but which you may find helpful (for example, optional field trips). The costs of these are additional to your tuition fee and the fees set out above and will be notified when the activity is being arranged.

Discover Uni – key statistics about this course

Discover Uni is an official source of information about university and college courses across the UK. The widget below draws data from the corresponding course on the Discover Uni website, which is compiled from national surveys and data collected from universities and colleges. If a course is taught both full-time and part-time, information for each mode of study will be displayed here.

How to apply

If you're a UK applicant wanting to study full-time starting in September, you must apply via UCAS unless otherwise specified. If you're an international applicant wanting to study full-time, you can choose to apply via UCAS or directly to the University.

If you're applying for part-time study, you should apply directly to the University. If you require a Student visa, please be aware that you will not be able to study as a part-time student at undergraduate level.



When to apply

The University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) accepts applications for full-time courses starting in September from one year before the start of the course.

Our UCAS institution code is L68.

Visit UCAS for more details

To find out when teaching for this degree will begin, as well as welcome week and any induction activities, view our academic term dates.

News and success stories

Meet the team

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