Games Programming

UCAS code: I610

Here's what University of Northampton says about its Games Programming course.

The BSc Games Programming course is designed in such a way as to provide students with all the knowledge and skills required to have a successful career in the Computer Games industry. The Computer Games industry has developed throughout the decades of its existence a reputation of being one of the most competitive and companies are constantly looking for highly creative people possessing a passion about creating computer games.

In this course you will focus on the programming and development of computer games starting from the foundation principles of computer games programming. In this course we insist also on the principle of "theory put into practice" and with the assistance of our bright new, state-of-the-art equipped, computer labs you will have every opportunity to experience this principle materialising, gaining both the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills you need to develop first-rate computer games. You will have an opportunity to fully explore other key computer games elements like development of ideas, planning, problem-solving and the economics of creating a complete computer game ready to be launched in the market.

You will study core modules, which cover concepts and skills from fundamental to advance, including: Computer Systems, Problem Solving & Programming, Computer Games Programming, Programming for "Unity3D" Game Engine (fundamental to advance), Programming for "Unreal 4" Game Engine (fundamental to advance), Computer Graphics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) Techniques, Simulation & Dynamics, Internet Technology and Computer Games Techniques. 95% of final year Computer games and animation students at The University of Northampton agreed they were satisfied with the course, while 100% of students agreed that staff have made the subject interesting.*

By studying at the University of Northampton, you can be sure that:

• Our expert academics teach in small groups supported with one to one assistance. Our academics and students form a tight bond, providing individualised support and guidance whilst challenging students academically.

• Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd.

• At UON we guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time, first year students who apply and accept their room offer by June 2026 - and we won't ask for a deposit for September 2026*.

• Students enrolling on this course at Northampton will be provided with their own brand new laptop** to keep at no additional cost. All sports clubs and societies are free to join at Northampton and every essential course text book is available via the library, meaning you won’t have to purchase copies. For more information on this visit our website (northampton.ac.uk/benefits).

• You will experience student life at the University’s £330 million Waterside Campus. Come along to an Open Day and find out more.

The Northampton Employment Promise

In fact, we’re so confident in our careers and employability support that if you achieve at least a 2:2 degree and complete either our Employability Plus Gold programme or achieve a Changemaker Gold Certificate during your time studying with us, but still haven’t secured full-time employment 12 months after graduating, we will secure a three – six month paid internship for you or support you into postgraduate study.

? eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information ?? eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

Stage 1: • Fundamentals of Programming (compulsory) • Programming for Games Engines (compulsory) • Database Design for Computer Games (compulsory) • Group Game Project: Fundamentals (compulsory) • Programming 2D Computer Games (compulsory) • Computer Games Architecture and Optimisation (compulsory)

Stage 2: • Indie Games Development (compulsory) • Native Programming and Compilation (compulsory) • Mathematics for Computer Games (compulsory) • 2D Graphics Programming for Computer Games (compulsory) • Programming 3D Computer Games (compulsory) • Group Game Project: Advanced (compulsory)

Stage 3: • Games Dissertation (compulsory) • Simulation and Dynamics (compulsory) • AI for Computer Games (compulsory) • 3D Graphics Progamming for Computer Games (compulsory) • Programming Multiplayer Computer Games (compulsory) • Group Game Project: Industry Practice (compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 2025 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

Assessment is a mixture of studio based design projects (continual assessment), portfolio development, and written assignments.