MSc Computing: Games Development
Award type:
Campus:
Entry:
Conversion (for graduates of games-related degrees)
Stafford
September
Overview
MSc Computing: Games Development is a Computing conversion course for graduates of games-related degrees
such as Computer Games Design or Games Production who are aiming for a career as a Games Programmer.
It builds on your existing knowledge of the games industry and covers the core computing skills you need:
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how to program in a variety of languages, emphasising C++, the industry standard
programming techniques for game development
the structure of computer systems, including operating systems, input and output devices and networks
game artificial intelligence
game industry software development practice
You will learn the fundamentals of programming in an intensive preliminary study period. Throughout your course
you will create games for a variety of computer and console platforms, mobile devices, and networked systems,
building up a portfolio of work to show to potential employers. You will learn research methods and write a
research proposal, and will then undertake a dissertation in an area of game programming which interests you.
Graduate destinations
On completion you could find yourself in a large games company fulfilling a role such as Games Programmer or
Middleware Developer, or using your broad games development knowledge in a smaller studio or as an
independent game developer. High achieving students may also pursue specialist topics in game development at
the PhD level.
Facilities
 dedicated computer laboratories for game programming, mobile/handheld application development, and
game artificial intelligence
 housed in a purpose-build Computer Science building with over 500 computers in total
 suite of Playstation development kits
 XNA Game Studio for XBox, PC and Zune development
 3D modeling software including 3ds Max and Maya
 Usability lab – created to assist local industry with game-play techniques and responses
Course structure
Preliminary study
period
Computing Skills CE00225-M
3 weeks September
Study period 1
Study period 2
Object-Oriented Game Programming
CE01043-M
Game Programming Concepts CE01044-M
Computer Systems Architecture CE00215-M
Game Industry Software Development
Practice CE01047-M
Game Artificial Intelligence CE00211-M
Personal Development and Research
Methods CE00542-M
Option
12 weeks January - May
Option
12 weeks September - January
Study period
3
Dissertation (60
credits)
12 weeks May –
September
An optional 6-12 month placement may be undertaken after passing study period 1 or 2. Note you cannot start a placement after the
dissertation.
A variety of option modules are available: you may choose to study further introductory computing modules, or
advanced general computing or games programming modules.
Introductory Computing options:
CE00218-M Systems Analysis and Design
CE00730-M Principles of Software Engineering
CE00728-M Internet Applications
CE00675-M Introduction to Database Technology
Advanced Computing options
CE00204-M Object Oriented Software Systems Engineering
CE00213-M Mobile Applications and Systems
CE00214-M Mobile Computer Communications Systems
CE00465-M Enterprise Applications
CE00535-M Mobile Web and Multimedia
CE00731-M Network Systems and Technologies
CE00754-M Interaction Design
Advanced Game Programming options:
CE00208-M Computer Graphics
CE01045-M Game Engine Programming
CE01046-M Low-Level Game Programming
CE01048-M Advanced Game Programming Concepts
The modules offered will not be fixed, as technologies change and we keep them up to date.
available will depend on which semester you take your option and timetabling constraints.
Option modules
Entry requirements
Normal requirements are at least a UK second class honours degree or equivalent in any discipline related to the
design or development of computer games.
If you do not meet the above but have significant appropriate experience, your application will be considered,
provided that you satisfy the University that you are capable of responding to the challenge of postgraduate work.
If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate that you are fluent enough to cope with the
course. A minimum score of IELTS 6 or TOEFL 550 (213 computer-based) is normally required.
July 2009