Computer Games Development

Computer Games Development at Queen's University Belfast is a comprehensive undergraduate degree programme designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of video game design and production. The programme offers a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines technical programming expertise, artistic design, and an understanding of the creative aspects of game development. Students will engage with a wide range of subjects including computer graphics, animation, artificial intelligence, game engines, user interface design, and interactive storytelling. Emphasis is placed on practical, hands-on experience, enabling students to develop their own innovative games from initial concept through to polished, market-ready products. The programme also covers crucial topics such as project management, teamwork, and entrepreneurship within the gaming industry, preparing graduates for diverse careers in game development companies, independent studios, or related technology and entertainment sectors. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated game labs and software, as well as opportunities for industry placements and collaborations. The course is designed to foster creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking, encouraging students to push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. Graduates of this programme will be well-positioned to contribute to the vibrant global gaming industry, armed with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of computer games development. In addition to technical skills, students will develop essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and project management, making them versatile and competitive in the job market. The programme is suitable for students passionate about technology, storytelling, and digital media, and offers a dynamic environment where innovation and experimentation are encouraged. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to pursue careers in game design, software engineering, digital entertainment, and related fields, or to undertake further study and research in this exciting area. With a strong focus on employability, the programme continually updates its curriculum to reflect industry trends, ensuring graduates are prepared to meet the challenges of the evolving gaming landscape.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

These degrees are modular, with core modules defined in each year and pathways that allow an increasing degree of specialism as students progress from Stage 1 to Stage 4. Modules are combined across the stages to reflect the various themes within the degree, and include:

Stage 1

Fundamentals of Programming and Algorithmic Development
Introductory Software Engineering and Project Management
Principles of Computer Architecture
Theory and Development of Multimedia Systems

Stage 2

Advanced C++ Programming
Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis
Games Programming (using XNA)
Networking Theory and Programming Practice
Principles Behind Game Theory and Game Creation
Principles of Software Engineering Explored Through Team-based Game Development
Professional Development

Stage 3

3D Game Engine Design and Development
3D Graphics and Programming
Advanced Topics in Software Engineering
Agile and Component-based Software Development
Artificial Intelligence
Concurrent (multi-core) Programming
Real-time Physics Programming
Year of Professional Experience

Between Stages 3 and 4 students undertake an optional full year's paid industrial placement. This placement year is an opportunity to put into practice the principles learned in the programme, and to gain practical experience in games design and development with an appropriate games development studio where possible. Students will receive assistance in obtaining a suitable placement.

Stage 4

In this stage students develop specialism in games programming through the selection of research-based modules and the completion of a games development research project. Based on current research strengths this would include:

Adaptive and Self-learning
Advanced Algorithmic Analysis
Advanced Computer Vision Techniques
Artificial Intelligence
Distributed/Parallel Programming
Embedded Software Systems
Reasoning Under Uncertainty

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A-level AAB including Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Mathematics.

• Irish Leaving Certificate AB2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Mathematics or Physics + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics.

All applicants: Computer Science, Computing Information Technology and Computer Games Development share a common core of modules in the first year. Students may therefore transfer between these courses at the end of first year, subject to meeting the normal progression requirements. Students interested in transferring to the Computer Games Development degree from either Computer Science or Computing and Information Technology will be required to pass an additional Mathematics exam should they not hold an A-level in Mathematics or Physics (or equivalent qualification).

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Queen's University Belfast.

Queen’s University Belfast offers a dedicated program in Computer Games Development designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic and creative field of game design and development. The programme combines theoretical foundations with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-versed in programming, game mechanics, interactive storytelling, and the latest technological innovations in game creation. Students engage with a broad curriculum that covers core areas such as computer graphics, artificial intelligence, 3D modelling, animation, and user interface design, alongside project management and team collaboration skills vital in the industry. The course features a mixture of lectures, workshops, and hands-on projects, often involving the development of real-world game prototypes, which provide invaluable experience and a strong portfolio for employment. Students also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated game development labs equipped with high-powered computers and industry-standard software like Unity and Unreal Engine. The program is designed to foster creativity, technical expertise, and critical thinking, enabling students to push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. Furthermore, collaborations with industry partners and opportunities for internships are integral parts of the degree, helping students to build professional networks and gain insights into the commercial aspects of game development. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in leading game studios worldwide, in roles such as game programmer, designer, artist, and project manager. The university supports a vibrant community of aspiring game developers, with various clubs, competitions, and events that promote innovation and networking. The program is suitable for individuals passionate about gaming and technology, looking to turn their creative ideas into compelling interactive experiences within a supportive academic environment. Overall, Queen’s University Belfast’s Computer Games Development program prepares students to meet the challenges of the rapidly evolving gaming industry with confidence and competence, making it an excellent choice for aspiring game developers seeking a comprehensive undergraduate education.