School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics

BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Development)

UCAS tariff 104 - 120 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code I622
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time

Study location Plymouth

Create your own apps, games, virtual and mixed reality solutions to build your profile as a versatile developer. This course challenges you to innovate in the games sector, while applying your highly transferable skills using game technologies to solve real-world problems. Work individually and as part of a team, establishing your portfolio and career trajectory.

Careers with this subject

The course places a strong emphasis on employability with a focus on the technical side of game development. You will gain highly transferable skills for a fast-evolving sector and beyond. As part of the degree you will be able to establish a tailored developer profile and your career path through our professional network, developer community and international partners. Perhaps your dream is to start your own company by yourself or with a team, we will support you with the help of the The Cube's entrepreneur programme.

Key features

  • Build your profile as a versatile developer
    Attract industry attention with an extensive portfolio of tech demos and indie game releases. Explore and reflect your interests and skillset through deep-dive solo projects. Collaborate in team projects to develop bigger games and more expansive systems.
  • Prepare yourself for the real-world work requirements in the industry
    Learn the skills and experience the full development cycle from initial concept through design process and implementation to final project delivery and product release.
  • Dive into game dev and get involved
    Join our active games and developer community, participate and compete in exhibitions and national events such as EGX, Develop, the Tranzfuser and the Global Game Jam. Meet like-minded people, present your ideas and build fun games.
  • Gain professional accreditation
    Get a degree that's accredited by, and entitles membership of, British Computer Society, BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT.
We are a member of TIGA, the professional body for games developers in the UK.
  • Make use of cutting-edge facilities
    Students in engineering, science and the arts have access to a range of specialist equipment and innovative laboratories in our new engineering and design facility . You'll also have access to specialist laboratories equipped with various hardware and software configurations.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • In Year 1 you take part in core software development topics that underpin game development: programming, data structures and algorithms, security, and databases to build a highly transferable skills base. You will apply this fundamental knowledge to game development, solving gameplay problems and creating experiences with modern game engines.

    Core modules

    BPIE111
    Stage 1 Computing Placement Preparation 0 credits

    This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

    COMP1000
    Software Engineering 1 20 credits

    This module exposes students to the principles of software design and construction. The basics of constructing source code to solve a problem will be introduced, exposing students to common control structures alongside concepts such as types and generics. Major programming paradigms such as object orientation and functional programming are introduced. Additionally, key software development tools and methods are explored.

    100% Coursework

    COMP1001
    Computer Systems 20 credits

    This module provides students with an underpinning knowledge of how computers work. Topics include low-level systems and representation of data, operating systems, and an introduction to subjects such as virtualisation, parallelism, state and communications. Students will learn how operating systems manage processes and scheduling, and how memory management works.

    100% Coursework

    COMP1002
    Cyber Security & Networks 20 credits

    Modern computing relies upon networking and robust cyber security. This module provides an appreciation of their core enabling technologies, discussing how they can be applied. Key networking topics include routing and switching, as well as wireless networks. Key areas of security include underlying concepts and threats, and exploring security technologies that can be applied to enable defence in depth.

    100% Coursework

    COMP1003
    Algorithms, Data Structures and Mathematics 20 credits

    Data structures and algorithms lie at the heart of Computer Science as they are the basis for an efficient solution of programming tasks. In this module, students will study core algorithms and data structures, as well as being given an introduction to algorithm analysis and basic Mathematics for Computer Science.

    100% Coursework

    COMP1004
    Computing Practice 40 credits

    This module applies problem-based learning to provide students with the ability to identify problems and derive appropriate and considered solutions. A focus will be given to the early stages of the software development lifecycle to develop the skills of eliciting requirements whilst considering operational and technical trade-offs. The module will culminate in the creation of a simple yet complete software solution.

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

  • Year 2

  • In Year 2, core game programming skills are refined and then expanded upon with artificial intelligence. You learn about novel interface prototyping, game engine technologies, and player communication techniques. Establish your working processes, improve your coding, build exciting prototypes that showcase your passion for games. Knowledge gained in earlier stages of the computing programmes is consolidated and integrated into a substantial project. Students work in teams, champion professional roles, using game technologies to design and develop a solution for a given scenario.

    Core modules

    BPIE211
    Stage 2 Computing Placement Preparation 0 credits

    This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their programme. It is designed build on the Level 1 module (BPIE111) and to assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

    COMP2000
    Software Engineering 2 20 credits

    Students’ understanding of software engineering is expanded by introducing a range of topics that instil best practice. Students will learn how to implement faster software using parallelism and consider aspects of human-computer interaction. Object-orientation and functional programming are revisited, while event-driven programming is introduced. Common design patterns used in the construction of software are introduced.

    100% Coursework

    COMP2001
    Information Management & Retrieval 20 credits

    This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts for graphical representation, information management, database systems and data modelling. The capture, digitisation, representation, organisation, transformation and presentation of information is explored using conceptual and physical data models.

    100% Coursework

    COMP2002
    Artificial Intelligence 20 credits

    This module provides students with an introduction to the principles of artificial intelligence and the methods used in that field. Topics covered include search and optimisation, knowledge representation and reasoning, and machine learning. Students will gain experience of modelling and simulation, and will apply analytical tools to evaluating results, and will consider the ethical implications of the introduction of AI.

    100% Coursework

    COMP2003
    Computing Group Project 40 credits

    Knowledge gained in earlier stages of the computing programmes is consolidated and integrated into a substantial project. Students work in teams, champion professional roles, design and develop a software solution for a given scenario. The project integrates and expands upon software development stages covered on the course (project management, analysis, design, construction, communication, security and/or networking).

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

    COMP2007
    Game Development 20 credits

    This module provides a series of workshops in interactive systems for game developers with a core lecture series resulting in a substantial individual student project. The workshop series will also introduce students to the game development pipeline through an iterative process, tools and methods used in industry, developing professional practice.

    100% Coursework

  • Year 3

  • Take advantage of the wide range of opportunities in related sectors, from small studios to multinationals, based in the UK or overseas.

    Core modules

    BPIE330
    Computing Related Placement (Generic)

    A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich course, undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for you to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two years of study and to prepare for the final year and employment after graduation. Please note this placement is optional but strongly recommended.

  • Final year

  • Build a team and start a company – we have a track record in supporting student enterprise and generating start-ups. We have a strong developer community with regular game jams, hackathons, career fairs and developer conferences. Focus on your career path, selecting options to enable you to achieve a substantial individual project leading to a position or role in your chosen sector. A substantial individual project showcases your game development skill as you focus on topics such as industry engagement and graphics programming.

    Core modules

    COMP3000
    Computing Project 40 credits

    The Computing Project provides an opportunity to tackle a major computing related problem in an approved topic area relevant to the programme of study.

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

    COMP3013
    Team Enterprise 20 credits

    The module follows a small developer model, facilitating company formation around a game-based prototype from initial concept to product launch. You will work as part of an interdisciplinary team, develop a commercial pitch and understand your position in the value chain. You will make a game technology-based product to generate a start-up company and use relevant industry approaches to manage and develop your product.

    100% Coursework

    COMP3014
    Industry Engagement 20 credits

    This module provides a contextual framework for developers seeking to release games, Apps, software projects or compete in national events. Topics include creating and protecting intellectual property, product placement, revenue models and licensing, investment, social enterprise, and due diligence. The module includes industry case studies, a guest speaker programme and opportunities for individual mentoring.

    100% Coursework

    Optional modules

    COMP3006
    Full-Stack Development 20 credits

    This module explores the production of dynamic web applications with a particular focus on the web environment. Key elements such as object oriented and event-based development, asynchronous client-server communication and distributed content representation are explored through practical production. The production of a working system uses dynamic web frameworks such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript/jQuery.

    100% Coursework

    COMP3007
    HCI, Usability and Visualization 20 credits

    This module has three main objectives. The first objective is to enhance the students understanding of the topic of Human Computer Interaction (HCI). The second is to emphasise the crucial role of user feedback in the software development life cycle. The final objective is to exemplify this grounding in HCI and usability evaluation using the application area of Information Visualization.

    100% Coursework

    COMP3015
    Games Graphics Pipelines 20 credits

    This module develops core programming skills for game developers, targeting specific elements of graphics pipelines; rendering, shading and optimisation for varied platforms such as AR (mobile) VR and XR platforms. The module focuses on specific skills required to develop tools/solution for emerging game technologies.

    100% Coursework

    COMP3016
    Immersive Game Technologies 20 credits

    This module introduces the concepts and programming techniques for high performance real-time graphics using a relevant graphical API. A bottom-up view of graphical programming is taken, excluding the use of game engines and high-level prototyping tools. Students also learn transferrable skills: programming in an un-managed environment, tools programming, programming for physical interfaces and/or sensors.

    100% Coursework

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

104 - 120

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE: English C/4 and mathematics grade B/5. If you have a grade C/4 in mathematics please contact the admissions team.
A levels: 104-120 points from a minimum of 2 A levels in any subject.
International Baccalaureate: 27-30 overall – English and mathematics must be included.
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DDM – science related subjects: IT, Humanities, Engineering, Software Development, IT Practitioners, Business, Computing, Science (GCSE English C/4 and mathematics grade C/5. If you have a grade C/4 in mathematics please contact admissions team).
BTEC National Diploma modules:
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All Access courses: Pass Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject (e.g. Computing/IT/Science/ Humanities/Engineering), with at least 33 Level 3 credits at Merit/Distinction.
T level: Merit to Distinction depending on the Mathematics units studying within the T level pathways.
Other qualifications will be considered individually; please contact us for information.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary .

Fees, costs and funding

New student 2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

* UK Government announcement on tuition fees

On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.

Undergraduate scholarships for international students

To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Additional fieldwork and equipment costs .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,385.
Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Our path to industry

Student project showreel

Here is some recent student work from all stages to highlight the variety of output our undergraduates engage with to hone their game development skills. First year work is celebrated as much as the more technically demanding final stage projects.
Games development arcade game

Games industry

“The course gives you every opportunity to show your skills. If you’re good at design, you can show that off. If you’re good at programming, you can show that off. As I am a mix of both the programming and the design sides, this is perfect for me.”
Jack, who progressed a UX researcher at Frontier Developments, created Slidey Tanks in his second year. It is best played through our arcade machine!
Find out more about Jack's story .
Arron Burch's Bobby's Burgers VR

Creative and corporate industry

“I have gone from knowing nothing to being confident enough now to build my own applications and games and work for companies in the industry.”
Aaron, now a Unity developer at Rescape Innovation Ltd, created his burger flipping game for VR platforms and released it on Viveport.
Find out more about Aaron's story .
 
Our culture is a crucial cornerstone to the course here at Plymouth. A degree course is more than a piece of paper and a set of skills, it is an experience and a journey that we want you to be a part of.
Our course is headed by passionate game developers that teach the industry skillset required to make games, release apps, and apply game technologies to a variety of markets. This is complimented by core of computer science fundamentals that enable you to grapple with a large variety of hardware, data flows, and architectural paradigms.
Game technologies is a fast-moving sector, embedded in a growing set of industries. We don’t just teach technical skills and workflows, but methodologies and processes that allow you to problem solve, design, and take on both known and unknown challenges within the industry. We will support you to participate and compete in exhibitions and national events such as Transfuser and Global Game Jam. We are industry facing and will guide and support your job trajectory, your start-up dreams, your game launch
Games Development Technologies
 

Our labs

We provide labs spaces for team work, solo projects, and multiplatform experiences from mobile apps to immersive technologies.
The Games Development Lab provides the hardware and software tools for students to design, develop and test real-world games. Leveraging engines such as Unity and Unreal, students are able to practice their skills; developing and deploying highly creative, innovative and interactive games. The hardware systems in these labs provide the necessary computation and graphical processing for timely rendering and compiling.
 

Placements

Josie Wood and Alex Pritchard - interns at Unity

“Going on placement has been the best decision ever!”
“We both talked about our uni work a lot in interviews, working with clients, working in a team, project management. It really did put us above the other candidates.”

Research-informed teaching

Meet the team

Meet our school technical staff

Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.