Games Programming BSc (Hons)

Course Content

• Course Details

  In the University of Northampton’s Games Programming BSc degree, you will focus on the programming and development of computer games starting from the foundation principles of computer games programming. For game programming courses, 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 on this programmer course, 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
  • Computer Games Techniques.

  You will also gain an in-depth understanding of Computer Science in general, this being the field of science that underpins computer software development in the entirety of its spectrum. The advantage of this is that after graduation you will be fully prepared and equipped with all the crucial knowledge required to succeed as a computer programmer of any other kind as well.

  In the second year of this games programming degree, there are two group projects where you will work to produce an innovative solution to a real world problem, and in your final year you will complete an individual research dissertation.

  Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 24/25. The modules relating to the academic year 25/26 will be available from June 2025.

  • Stage 1
    • Group Game Project: Fundamentals (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1077

      Status: Compulsory
      This module introduces students to group working practices within the context of a computer game development project. The module encourages the development of key interpersonal skills needed for collaborative work, such as communication, problem solving, respect and consideration of others, and identifying roles and responsibilities within a multidisciplinary group project.
    • Programming 2D Computer Games (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1079

      Status: Compulsory
      This module introduces students to the skills, principles and concepts necessary to develop 2D computer games. Students apply aspects of High-Level Programming Language (HLPL) and development platforms to develop 2D computer games.
    • Fundamentals of Programming (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1080

      Status: Compulsory
      This module introduces students to computer programming, and the concepts necessary to write a successful piece of code in a High-Level Programming Language (HLPL). Students develop essential skills to solve simple programming problems and are introduced to the principles underlying the design of High-Level Programming Languages.
    • Programming for Game Engines (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1081

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is for students to explore 2D game engine functionality and develop skills to manage and work with 2D objects, worlds and spaces. Students will engage with the important technical skills required for programming 2D computer games within a game engine.
    • Database Design for Computer Games (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1082

      Status: Compulsory
      In this module students apply the principles of database integrity to the design and development of database structures for computer games. Students apply data modelling techniques to establish, modify and maintain database integrity and data structures, using industry software and languages such as MySQL and Structured Query Language (SQL) PHP.
    • Computer Games Architecture and Optimisation (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1097

      Status: Compulsory
      This module introduces the main principles of computer games architecture, enabling students to gain practical experience of software engineering. Students explore computer game design, architecture and management, and gain an overview of game development process.
  • Stage 2
    • Indie Games Development (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2058

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to: introduce the concepts and the fundamentals of Indie Games design, programming and development; to gain in-depth understanding of real-time animations for computer games applications; to further understand the process of computer games programming and development using game engines; to gain the technical skills by developing a 3D application project.
    • Native Programming and Compilation
      Module code: CSY2059

      Status: Compulsory
    • Group Game Project: Advanced (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2127

      Status: Compulsory
      This module develops students? professional collaborative skills and experience of the game development process when working in multi-disciplinary groups to develop a 3D digital game to a deadline. Students use effective communication methods, empathy and compromise, problem solving and organisation skills within the context of a computer game project.
    • Mathematics For Computer Games (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2135

      Status: Compulsory
      In this module students acquire the essential mathematic skills which underpin computer games programming. Students will develop skills in Algebra, Geometry and Calculus in the context of computer games programming.
    • 2D Graphics Programming for Computer Games (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2136

      Status: Compulsory
      This module explores the use of 2D graphics for computer games, and primarily focuses on fundamental mathematical techniques that underpin the manipulation and display of 2D images and objects. The module addresses key aspects of the human visual system and how it governs our interaction with the digital domain.
    • Programming 3D Computer Games (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2137

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce the skills, principles and concepts necessary to develop high-performance 3D computer games. Students will construct appropriate algorithms to develop interactive gaming applications using contemporary game engines such as Unreal or Unity.
  • Stage 3
    • Graphics 2 (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY3028

      Status: Compulsory
      This purpose of this (Level 5) module is to understand and implement graphic applications. The module consists of three-dimensional graphics and animation. Such graphics have many uses from medical simulation to computer games. Advances in computer graphics hardware and in computer graphics libraries has now made it possible for the production and display of high quality computer graphics on stock hardware.
    • Game Techniques 3 (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY3030

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to: develop a critical appreciation of the social game development lifecycle; apply complex problem-solving skills to social develop games programs; introduce students to the skills, principles and concepts necessary to develop social computer games; implemente social games programs using an appropriate programming language and development platform.
    • Group Project 3 (Games) (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY3031

      Status: Compulsory
      As the final module of the Group Project series this module aims to place significant emphasis on independent learning, development and responsibility, through the creation of a social game following industry practices.The production process and design of the groups games, are student-directed and supported through a module supervisor in conjunction with some, tutor lead lectures.The games should demonstrate the understanding of the complete development life cycle (design through to publication), where the final submission should be aimed at appearing in the public domain.This game ought to be seen by the students as a ?marque product? worthy of appearing in their professional portfolio, to assist with gaining employment.
    • Simulation and Dynamics (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY3045

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce the basic concepts of computation through modelling and simulation that are increasingly being used by computer games developers/programmers to shorten design/implementation cycles and simulate the impacts of alternative approaches; to introduce students to scientific programming through exploring a range of programming and modelling concepts using the appropriate mathematical software.
    • Advanced AI and Applications (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY3060

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to: teach students the fundamental theories and practical applications of advanced artificial intelligence techniques including artificial neural networks, image classification and object detection. The underpinning concepts will be introduced, followed by examples of how responsible and ethical artificial intelligence applications are developed and tested.
    • Games Dissertation (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY4018

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to provide the opportunity for the student to undertake the research and self-management of a Computer Games related problem that permits the integration of the main areas of study in the student?s study programme. The module also permits the development of higher order intellectual skills.

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• Student Perks

  At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

  If you join this full time Games Programming degree at the University of Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

  Whatever your ambitions in studying a games programming course, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your game programming course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study in games programming you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

  To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.

  *UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).

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• Integrated Foundation Year (IFY)

  The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree at the University of Northampton, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

  If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

  Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

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• FAQs

  How will I learn on the Games Programming degree?

  All of the teaching and learning materials that you will need for this games programming course will be available on NILE, our Virtual Learning Environment. All of the software you will be using on this course is free to download.

  Are there any specialist facilities and features of the games programming course?

  • Strong industry links (Unity3D, UE4, Jagex, CinderUK, Evil27 Games) with internship opportunities
  • Opportunities for entry to national games competitions (“Off the Map”, “Make Something Unreal”, “Dare to be Digital”,  Aarvark Swift – “Search for a Star”)
  • Opportunities for course trips to games companies, and national gaming events (EuroGamer, GamesCity)
  • Dedicated Games Labs and Out of Hours Access Labs
  • Up-to-date games programming/development software (Unity3D, Unreal Engine 4, Microsoft C#, Microsoft C++, Microsoft Visual Studio, Visual Studio Code)
  • Yearly group projects, which allow for real life games development experience

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