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BSc (Hons) Computer and Video Games

Faculty of Arts, Media & Social Sciences

School of Media, Music & Performance

Key Facts

Duration

Three years full-time

Entry requirements

  • Advanced GCE Level: 260
  • VCE A Level: 200
  • BTEC NC: D/D
  • BTEC ND: M/M/M
  • Irish Leaving Certificate: 260
  • Scottish Highers: 260
  • IB: 28
  • Preferred background subjects: Maths, Physics, Media Studies, Art, Graphics and Computing

Course code

G470

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Further details...

Contact (UK / EU students)

Mick Lockwood

T +44 (0)161 295 4879

Email

Contact (international / non-EU students)

T +44 (0)161 295 4545

Email

Mode of Attendance

Full-time

  • Study various aspects of computer and video game design, production and management taught by staff with industry experience
  • Includes guest lectures by industry professionals
  • Supported by the European Leisure Software Publishers' Association (ELSPA), and has International Game Developers Association (IGDA) involvement

What's it about?

The dynamic world of computer and video game production is rapidly changing. This programme provides you with the academic, theoretical and practical training in the production of computer and video games that will prepare you for a career in this industry.

This programme is run by the Schools of Art & Design and Media, Music & Performance, so you will benefit from expertise and modules from both areas.

What will I learn?

Level 1 takes you through the 2D and 3D art and design processes and technical fundamentals of programming as well as looking into the use of sound and music. You will also learn how to design a computer game by designing and developing levels, characters, narrative, as well as 2D/3D content creation. More theoretical modules cover the historical and social issues surrounding video games, along with project management specific to the industry.

Level 2 core modules build on your project management and level design skills as well as looking at game technology and narrative design. Optional modules allow you to further specialise in the other areas covered at level 1.

In level 3 you will learn about patents, copyrights and other means of legal protection as well as the economics and structure of the industry. You will also work as part of a team to produce a prototype game and undertake an individual portfolio (chosen from Programming; Art and Graphics; Sound and Music; Design). A dissertation is also written in the final year detailing an aspect of the video game industry.

How will I learn?

You will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed throughout the programme by both practical and theoretical coursework and exams.

Where can I get a job?

The modules you take during this programme are designed to prepare you to specialise in certain areas of game production through the selection of options taken at level 2, your role in the team project and your individual portfolio. Graduates go on to work as programmers, 3D artists, level designers, and a variety of other positions in the games industry working for companies such as Sony, Travellers Tales, and Evolution Studios.

Last updated 27 November 2008

Interested?

UK / EU students: register and log in to your commUNIty.

International / non-EU students: visit our international enquiries system.

For further information on how you can apply to courses, see our study at Salford section.