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 25/26. The modules relating to the academic year 26/27 will be available from June 2026.

  • Stage 1
    • Problem Solving and Programming (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1020

      Status: Compulsory
      This purpose of this module is to: introduce students to the skills, principles and concepts necessary to solve problems in computing; to develop essential skills to enable the solution of these problems with the construction of appropriate algorithms and a computer program; introduce principles underlying the design of a high level programming language (HLPL); gain experience and confidence in the use of a HLPL to implement algorithms; implement HLPL programs using an appropriate programming language e.g. Java; introduce an object-oriented language initially as a non-object language.
    • Game Techniques 1 (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1024

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to; introduce students to the skills, principles and concepts necessary to develop computer games; develop essential programming skills to enable the solution of these problems with the construction of appropriate algorithms and a games program; introduce principles underlying the design of a high level programming language (HLPL) and development platforms; gain experience and confidence in the use of a HLPL and development platforms to implement computer games; implement games programs using an appropriate HLPL and development platform; deliver the language as a non-object language; develop an appreciation of the game development lifecycle and apply problem-solving skills to develop prototype games programs.
    • Group Project 1 (Games) (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1025

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is ?To integrate and draw together the various aspects of the programme gained during study at level 4. The aim is that the shared Team Project (ideally small groups of 3-6 students) is a vehicle for the students from both pathways to come together and to develop a 2D digital game that enriches their individual pathway skills by exposure to requirements of the complementary pathway.
    • Databases 1 (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1026

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is ?to understand and apply the principles of database integrity in the design and practical development of database structures.Databases 1 is a hands-on module that applies data modelling techniques to establish, modify and maintain database integrity and data structures and associated components such as entities, relationships and attribute definitions.
    • Fundamentals of Computing Systems (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1043

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to: introduce basic computing systems concepts by introducing computer architecture, compilers, operating systems, and algorithms; the interdependency of hardware and software design techniques and balance trade-offs between competing design constraints as well as classification of software (systems and application software).
    • Video Games Architecture and Optimisation (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY1044

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to: introduce the main issues surrounding the computer games architecture; to provide practical experience of software engineering associated with computer games; to provide a guide to computer game design, architecture, and management; to explore the application of design principles; to offer an overview of game development software.
  • Stage 2
    • Modern Network
      Module code: CSY2026

      Status: Compulsory
    • Graphics 1 (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2033

      Status: Compulsory
      This purpose of this module is to understand and implement graphic applications. The module consists of two-dimensional graphics and animation. Such graphics have many uses from medical simulation to computer games. Advances in computer graphics hardware and computer graphics libraries has now made it possible for the production and display of high quality computer graphics on stock hardware.
    • Game Techniques 2 (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2034

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to: introduce the skills, principles and concepts necessary to develop high performance 3D computer games; develop essential programming skills to enable the solution of these problems with the construction of appropriate algorithms and a high performance 3D games program. Introduce the principles underlying the design of a high level programming language and development (HLPL) platforms; gain experience and confidence in the use of a HLPL and development platforms to implement computer games.
    • Group Project 2 (Games) (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY2035

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is ?To integrate and draw together the various aspects of the programme gained during study at level 4 & 5. Building upon the personal/group lessons learnt in CSY1025 the aim of this team project module is to work ideally in small multi-disciplinary groups of 3-8 students to develop a 3D digital game.
    • 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
  • Stage 3
    • Artificial Intelligence Techniques (20 Credits)
      Module code: CSY3025

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is ?To teach students the fundamental theory and practical applications of: knowledge-based systems, artificial neural networks and evolutionary algorithms. The underpinning concepts will be introduced, followed by examples of how intelligent systems are used in engineering or games applications.
    • 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.
    • 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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