Undergraduate Course
Games Development BSc (Hons)
Our Games Development course will give you the skills necessary to join the dynamic and innovative games industry.
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If you think you could create the next big computer game then this is the course for you. Our Games Development course will give you the skills necessary to contribute to game development, from Indie to AAA. We will thoroughly prepare you for employment in the fast paced computer games industry.
94% Computer Science students responded with a 94% positivity score for how good teaching staff are at explaining things. (National Student Survey 2023)
94% Computer Science students responded with a 94% positivity score for how often their course challenged them to achieve their best work. (National Student Survey 2023)
York campus
- UCAS code – II62 (2W73 with placement year)
- Duration – 3 years full time, 4 years full time with placement, 6 years part time
- Start date – September 2024, September 2025
- School – School of Science, Technology and Health
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language and Maths
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £14,000 per year full time
Discover Computer Science
Dr Aminu Usman, Associate Head for Computer and Data Science, introduces us to Computer Science at York St John University.
Course overview
On this course you will develop a deep understanding of the technical practices involved in the creation of modern video games. The design principles you learn will enable you to carry projects through from conceptualisation to realisation.
The course covers core programming, design and computational skills, including:
- Game mechanics
- Programming patterns for games
- Computational languages acquisition
- Algorithm design
- Systems design and analysis
- Applied mathematics
We will help you to become a skilled and employable graduate with the relevant technical, professional and entrepreneurial skills. There are opportunities throughout the course to apply the skills you learn from our specialist modules to live projects. In your second year you will have the opportunity to work in a professional setting or on an individual entrepreneurial project.
A year in industry option is also available, allowing a more intensive employment experience. As part of the course you can choose to complete a year long placement in industry. This extends the length of your course to 4 years and is completed between years 2 and 3.
Course structure
Year 1
Our academic year is split into 2 semesters. How many modules you study each semester will depend on whether you are a full time or part time student.
In your first year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 2
If you are studying part time, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will explore the core concepts and models of application development. Through practical exploration and lectures, you will further your problem solving and programming skills. Through this you will develop your abilities in areas such as:
- Coding
- Software development and testing tools
- Problem solving
- Teamwork
- Time management
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will learn about the mathematical foundations of computer science, using use mathematics as a tool to model and analyse problems arising in this field. Through this we will introduce you to mathematical techniques and skills that are used in industry, as well as teaching you how and when to use these particular techniques.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module, you will be taught the basics of game development using a game engine. In your teaching sessions you will cover the history of video games, games vocabulary, and critical analysis of games. This will help you to develop skills in areas such as:
- Game development
- System analysis
- Problem solving
- Design and modelling knowledge
- Time management
You will also learn about the mechanics of computer games, and form a conceptual and linguistic framework for discussing games.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module we will introduce you to the fundamental concepts and models of Web application development. You will be equipped with the skills to create platform independent and responsive web applications. The technologies you will learn about include:
- HTML
- CSS
- Javascript
- PHP
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Through this module you will develop various transferable and employable skills, as well as gaining practical experience in:
- Linux OS
- Linux programming
- Systems thinking
- Time management
- Problem solving
We will introduce you to the internal operations of computing hardware, and the techniques involved in managing and organising the components of the operating system.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will learn the fundamental techniques of software engineering that are used in games development. This will include assessing basic issues in games design and development, the game development cycle, and play testing. Through this you will gain both practical and conceptual skills required for the computer game development industry.
Year 2
In your second year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 2
If you are studying part time, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
If you are studying on the Games Development BSc (Hons) (with placement) variant you will undertake a Year in Industry (also known as a sandwich year or placement year), in between your second and third year.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Gain a greater understanding of high level programming language, scripts, and scripting language. On this module we will introduce to the philosophy of trustworthy software development, as you learn about the process of designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining a software in a trustworthy manner. Through this module you will gain both practical and conceptual skills required for systems software development.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will explore the principles of databases, as well as gaining practical experience of designing, implementing and managing database systems interfaced to web application systems. The module also involves investigating current and likely future developments in database technology.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will build your understanding of developing video games, using a game engine to create your own game. You will learn how to use assets such as:
- Animated sprites
- Backgrounds
- Sound effects
- Music
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will learn about advanced programming ideas and methods, including software development and engineering. You will apply this knowledge in Standards of Learning (SOL) sessions, where you will developing intermediate and advanced software. Areas covered may include:
- Java Programming Language
- Java Object Model
- Event Driven Programming
- Java Multi-Threading
- Distributed Programming with Java-RMI
- Software Development Tools – IDE, Junit
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Our growing focus on work related learning reflects a clear understanding of the relationship between technical knowledge and the need for computing and employability skills. On this module you will take part in collaborative entrepreneurial projects that help to prepare you for the workplace. You will work with businesses to develop computer-based solutions to their business problems. Through this you will build core professional skills around interacting with employers and wider industry.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will gain practical experience working on a group project to develop a game with other students. This will involve elements of to designing, developing, testing and delivering a game. This will give you opportunities to develop skills such as:
- Game design
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Design and modelling knowledge
Year 3
In your third year, if you are a full time student, you will study:
- 1 dissertation module across semesters 1 and 2
- 2 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 2 optional modules in semester 2
If you are studying part time, the modules above will be split over 2 years.
Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Modules
Credits: 40
Compulsory module
On this Dissertation module you will apply the knowledge and practical skills you have developed throughout the course to complete a major individual project. This will involve producing a software product from the initial idea, through to successful evaluation and a substantial report to demonstrate your research. Your project might, for example, focus on the development of a game, or conduct research into emerging technologies. This module also gives you the chance to collaborate with students from other Computer Science courses.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Games engines are developed and deployed to make the development cycle of computer games quicker and more economical. Developing video games by using games libraries to write code is a key aspect on this module. You will examine animation, physics simulation, and collision detection functionality as you consider various aspects of game programming.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will focus on the fundamentals of 3D graphics. You will learn about:
- The mathematics of 3D geometry and transformations
- The representation of 3D objects, shading and lighting
- Essential techniques for designing and coding 3D graphics
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will learn to apply artificial intelligence concepts and techniques to game environments and game development, as well as investigating theories and issues in artificial intelligence and computing science. You will investigate practical techniques for designing and implementing intelligent systems using a variety of high level languages. Topics we will cover include:
- Search and optimisation, knowledge representation, reasoning systems
- Machine learning, evolutionary systems, artificial neural networks
- Collective systems
- Game theory, design and development
- Rule design, game balancing
- Scripting methods and AI evaluation
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will develop your understanding of the methods used to generate content in games. You will learn about:
- Procedural techniques
- The use of Perlin noise
- Fractals
- Growth systems
- Emergent systems and cellular automata
Credits: 20
Optional module
Agile methodologies are increasingly used in the games development industry. On this module you will gain an understanding of agile development principles, techniques and methods. Through this you will develop skills such as:
- Games development
- Agile methodologies
- Academic writing
- Time management
Credits: 20
Optional module
On this module you will explore the core concepts, principles and techniques of game creation for iOS devices. We will guide you through the key principles of programming in specific Apple languages. Starting with an introduction to the Apple programming environment, you will learn about the various specifics of Apple games related frameworks and languages. This will give you a comprehensive introduction to games programming for iOS enabled devices.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Explore the use of immersive technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and 360 degree cameras to examine and evaluate new and innovative computer interaction technologies. Practical experience of working with Virtual Reality (VR) headsets is a key element of this module, helping you understand how virtual environments are developed.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching and learning
We will deliver your modules through:
- Lectures
- Seminars and workshops
- Laboratory sessions
- Supported Open Learning
- Guest talks and trips
We believe in teaching methods that to put you, at the centre of the educational experience. You will therefore be taught in small class sizes and have high contact hours with our computer science specialists.
Each module usually has 2 to 4 hours of contact time a week. We schedule our taught sessions between 9.00am and 8.00pm, Monday to Friday.
You will need to conduct independent study outside of this time. This might include reading, research and coursework preparation. You can also arrange academic tutorials to receive feedback on your work and discuss the course content.
Our teaching draws on both our research and professional experience. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.
Assessment
Live projects and work experience are central to our ethos. Assessment types vary from module to module. Some of your assessments might include:
- Written portfolios
- Exams
- Practical work
- Research reports
Placements
In your second year you will participate in a work placement module. You will either work for an established company or on an entrepreneurial project. If you are taking the year in industry route you will be on placement for a whole year between your second and third year. We will support you with finding a placement which meets your career aspirations. We will also help to prepare you for this year by working with you on CV writing and interview skills.
Career outcomes
Your future with a degree in Games Development
The technical knowledge and skills you develop on this course can lead to a wide range of career options. You will develop skills in problem solving, collaboration, communication, presentation, programming and more.
This degree could be the first step toward your career as a:
- Applications developer
- Cyber security analyst
- Games developer
- Multimedia programmer
- Network engineer
- Software tester
Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.
You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.
PGCE at York St John University
Further your education and work towards a rewarding career in teaching by studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) after you graduate. For over 180 years, we have worked with enthusiastic individuals who want to shape the future of young people across both primary and secondary school settings. You'll spend a lot of time in schools, developing your practice by teaching. You will graduate with Qualified Teacher Status and become part of the well respected alumni of York St John educators.
Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.
Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:
- Employer events
- LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
- Workshops on application writing and interview skills
- Work experience and volunteering opportunities
- Personalised career advice
This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language and Maths
Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
International students
If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.
Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.
If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.
Mature Learners Entry Scheme
If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.
Terms and conditions
Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.
Fees and funding
To study for an undergraduate degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK). Tuition fees may be subject to inflation in future years.
UK 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry onto this course is:
- £9,250 per year for full time study
- £6,935 per year for the first 4 years if you study part time
These prices apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students
You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page:
Placement year funding
If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.
Tuition fees
UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2024 entry £14,000 per year full time
International 2024 entry
The tuition fee for 2024 entry to this course is £14,000 per year for full time study.
This price applies to all students living outside the UK.
Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.
Find out more about funding your degree:
Additional costs and financial support
There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.
Course-related costs
While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.
Study abroad
For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.
Accommodation and living costs
For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.
Financial help and support
Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses.
For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.
Course highlights
Find your specialism
You will share some of your modules with computer science students, while also studying specialist games development modules to gain knowledge and skills specific to the games industry.
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Live projects and testing
Apply your skills in projects that address contemporary challenges. In your second year you will apply your knowledge in a commercial environment through a work placement.
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More to explore
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Join us in 2024
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Open Days
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