BEng Hons Architectural Engineering
The BEng (Hons) Architectural Engineering program at Heriot Watt University offers stud...
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Programming)
Edinburgh
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Programming) program at Heriot Watt University is designed for students passionate about the development of interactive and immersive digital experiences. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to become proficient games programmers, capable of creating engaging games and interactive simulations across various platforms. Students explore topics such as game design, graphics programming, artificial intelligence, and game engine development. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, collaborative projects, and practical experience to prepare students for careers in the fast-paced and dynamic games industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Programming) program covers a wide range of topics relevant to games development. Core modules typically include Introduction to Game Development, Graphics Programming, Game Engine Architecture, Artificial Intelligence for Games, and Multiplayer Game Programming. Students also have the opportunity to explore specialized topics such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Interactive Storytelling through elective modules. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills development through laboratory exercises, project work, and game development workshops, allowing students to create their own games and interactive experiences.
Research Focus: Heriot Watt University has a strong research focus in games technology and interactive media, with faculty members engaged in innovative research projects that push the boundaries of games programming and design. Research areas may include procedural content generation, player behavior analysis, immersive technologies, and serious games for education and training. Students in the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Programming) program have the opportunity to engage in research activities, collaborate with faculty on research projects, and contribute to advancements in games technology and design.
Industry Engagement: The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Programming) program at Heriot Watt University emphasizes industry engagement to ensure that students are well-prepared for careers in the games industry. The university collaborates with leading games companies, indie game developers, and games industry organizations to provide students with internship opportunities, work placements, and industry-sponsored projects. Students gain practical experience, build professional networks, and acquire industry-relevant skills that enhance their employability upon graduation. The program also incorporates guest lectures, seminars, and workshops delivered by industry professionals, allowing students to learn about the latest developments and best practices in games programming and development.
Global Perspective: Heriot Watt University offers students a global perspective on games programming and interactive media, exploring the role of games in global culture, entertainment, and education. The BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Programming) program addresses global issues such as diversity, inclusion, and ethical considerations in games development. Students have the opportunity to learn from faculty with diverse international backgrounds, collaborate with peers from around the world, and participate in global game jams, competitions, and conferences. The program also emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness, storytelling, and user experience (UX) design in creating games that resonate with global audiences.
Location
Edinburgh
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 22264
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 78, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 54 with no individual score below 51.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Heriot Watt University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, support specific fields of study, promote diversity, and assist students with financial need.
Heriot Watt Undergraduate Scholarships: Heriot Watt offers several undergraduate scholarships to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria.
Heriot Watt Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance in their previous studies.
Heriot Watt Academic Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to exceptional students who have achieved outstanding grades in their academic qualifications.
Heriot Watt International Student Scholarships: These scholarships aim to support international students who are enrolling in undergraduate programs at Heriot-Watt University.
Heriot Watt Global Scholarships: These scholarships are open to international students and are based on academic merit and potential contribution to the university community.
It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary each year.Heriot Watt University offers a range of scholarships to support undergraduate and postgraduate students in their academic journeys. These scholarships recognize excellence, support diversity, and assist students with financial need. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the various scholarship opportunities offered by Heriot Watt University and apply according to the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Games Programming) program from Heriot Watt University have a wide array of career opportunities in the vibrant and ever-growing games industry.
Game Developer/Programmer: Graduates can pursue roles as game developers or programmers, responsible for writing code and implementing game mechanics, features, and systems. They may specialize in areas such as gameplay programming, graphics programming, physics simulation, or networking.
Game Designer: Graduates can work as game designers, responsible for conceptualizing game ideas, designing game mechanics, levels, and systems, and creating engaging player experiences. They may collaborate with artists, programmers, and producers to bring their vision to life.
Gameplay Engineer: Graduates can specialize as gameplay engineers, focusing on the development and optimization of game mechanics and player interactions. They may work on projects such as character movement, combat systems, artificial intelligence, or user interfaces, ensuring smooth and engaging gameplay experiences.
Graphics Programmer: Graduates can pursue careers as graphics programmers, focusing on the development of rendering engines, shaders, and visual effects that enhance the graphical fidelity and realism of games. They may work on projects such as lighting, shadows, particle effects, or post-processing techniques.
AI Programmer: Graduates can specialize in artificial intelligence (AI) programming, focusing on the development of intelligent behavior and decision-making systems for non-player characters (NPCs) and enemies in games. They may work on projects such as pathfinding, behavior trees, or decision-making algorithms.
Tools Programmer: Graduates can work as tools programmers, responsible for developing software tools and utilities that streamline the game development process. They may create level editors, asset pipelines, debugging tools, or performance analysis tools to support game development teams.
Mobile Game Developer: Graduates can focus on mobile game development, creating games for smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. They may specialize in platforms such as iOS, Android, or cross-platform development frameworks, developing casual games, puzzle games, or multiplayer games for mobile audiences.
Indie Game Developer: Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit can start their own game development studios and create independent (indie) games. They may work on projects of varying scope and scale, from small indie titles to larger commercial releases, leveraging their creativity, technical skills, and business acumen to bring their games to market.
Serious Games Developer: Graduates can work in the field of serious games, creating games for purposes beyond entertainment, such as education, training, simulation, or healthcare. They may develop educational games, training simulations, or therapeutic games that address societal challenges and promote positive social impact.
Game Industry Consultant: Graduates with expertise in games programming can work as consultants, providing advice and expertise to games companies on technical matters, development methodologies, and best practices. They may help clients optimize their game development processes, troubleshoot technical issues, or evaluate emerging technologies and trends.
