Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Computer Science (Games Development)

At ҹèÊÓÆµ you will create your own apps, games, and VR solutions to build a versatile profile. Innovate in gaming and apply game tech to real-world problems, working solo and in teams. Build your portfolio and boost creativity for career success.

Our typical offer

104 UCAS points

Secure your place this September

Already applied or yet to apply? Get guidance on the next steps you need to take to start a course in 2025.

Your gaming platform

You'll be part of our ҹèÊÓÆµ games and development community, participating in exhibitions and national events such as EGX, Develop, Tranzfuser, and the Global Game Jam. These platforms allow you to present your ideas, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and build a portfolio that attracts industry attention.

Real-world projects

You'll work with local game studios and other creative partners on live projects, gaining valuable industry experience and building a network of professional connections before you graduate, ready for your career.

Expertly equipped

You’ll make the most of our dedicated game development labs which houses state-of-the-art equipment and immersive capabilities. Getting you hands on with a range of hardware and software configurations enhancing your learning and development as a game developer.

About

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 Griffiths created Slidey Tanks in his second year.Ìý
It is best played through our arcade machine!

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about creating innovative games and interactive experiences
Finger pressing button
you enjoy problem-solving and have a creative mindset
Lightbulb with cog inside
you're eager to gain hands-on experience with the latest game development tools and technologies
Individual with VR headset on
you aspire to work in roles such as game developer, game designer, or interactive media specialist
Target with arrow in centre

Details

Year 1

Start your journey at the cutting edge of technology. In your first year, you’ll dive into the core principles of computer science—learning to code, solve problems algorithmically, and master the maths that powers modern computing.
From day one, it’s hands-on: you’ll design databases, explore how operating systems work under the hood, and start thinking like a developer.
Our industry-aligned curriculum sets you up for success, with practical workshops and early preparation to set you up for specialisation.
Computing and games development

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

This is where your abilities start to truly shine. In Year 2, you’ll take core game programming skills to the next level - bringing your worlds to life with artificial intelligence, advanced game engine tech, and experimental user interfaces.
You’ll refine your development process, collaborate in creative teams, and prototype innovative gameplay experiences that reflect your unique style and passion.
A major group project challenges you to take on professional roles within a development team, integrating everything you’ve learned so far to deliver a complete game solution. It’s a year of growth, creativity, and serious portfolio-building.
Games studio of Apple iMac computers

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

Optional placement year

Step into the real world and put your skills to the test. During this 48-week industry placement, you’ll gain invaluable experience in a professional environment - applying everything you’ve learned so far to real projects, real teams, and real challenges.
Supported by our strong network of industry partners and dedicated placement team, you’ll build confidence, sharpen your technical and professional skills, and grow a network of contacts that can open doors after graduation. It’s your opportunity to stand out, gain a competitive edge, and graduate with more than just a degree - graduate with experience.
Image of students at a computer

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

This is your final level - where ambition meets opportunity. Whether you want to join a studio, freelance, or start your own company, Year 3 gives you the tools to make it happen.
Surrounded by a thriving community of developers, you’ll have access to game jams, hackathons, industry talks, and enterprise support. You'll specialise in areas like advanced graphics, game AI, or industry-led development projects, while completing a substantial individual project that showcases your technical mastery and creative vision.
This is your chance to craft something remarkable - your launchpad into the games industry.
Luke Underhill - Computing student using VR equipment.

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

COMP3019
Computing Product Development, Management & Delivery 20 credits

This module explores the fundamental developmental, managerial and delivery aspects across the complete development lifecycle. Covering fundamental topics including: requirements gathering, project pitches, developmental constraints (legal, social, ethical and professional), quality assurance, product marketing and social enterprise.

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.

Experience

Bring your ideas to life!

Create your own apps, games, and immersive virtual and mixed reality experiences. Push the boundaries of innovation in the games industry while using powerful game technologies to tackle real-world challenges.
Whether working solo or as part of a team, you’ll build an impressive portfolio, grow as a creative, versatile developer, and launch your career with confidence and impact. Work on projects from week one. Develop workflows, processes and understanding that allows your team to innovate.
Make something tangible. Ensure it works. Optimise and iterate. Be agile and ready to overcome challenges.

Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching

Our dedicated Computer Science hub will be ready to welcome students in September 2025, providing a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.
Computing student Craig Banyard
 
 
Design, develop and test real-world games in our specialist Games Development Lab.
Leveraging engines such as Unity and Unreal, you're able to practice your skills; developing and deploying highly creative, innovative and interactive games.
Our hardware systems provide the necessary computation and graphical processing for timely rendering and compiling.
Check out our student showreel 8
 
 
 
 
 
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
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.
Dr Rory Hopcraft Lecturer in Cyber Security


Lecturer in Cyber Security

Programme Director
Dr Vasilios Kelefouras Lecturer in Computer Science


Lecturer in Computer Science

Admissions Tutor
Dr Fatma Bouabdallah Lecturer in Computer Science


Lecturer in Computer Science

Year 1 Tutor
Show all
 
 
 

Passionate about all things computing?

Explore, innovate, and connect with CompSoc; the ҹèÊÓÆµ Computing Society. We offer a platform to:
  • participate and learn together in collaborative coding sessions. Perfect for both improving your skills and helping others with their coding challenges
  • gain insights from industry professionals through our guest speaker events, providing valuable industry connections and real-world perspectives on what it's like working in tech.
  • build your professional network at our events. Meet peers, alumni, and professionals from the tech industry, opening doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations.
Computing students huddled around a laptop
 
 
 

Life in ҹèÊÓÆµ

ҹèÊÓÆµ's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Careers

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.
games@plymouth student work

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. I was offered a job from the work I did while on placement and I've recently signed a contract with them which is fantastic.

Arron Burch created his burger flipping game for VR platforms and released it on Viveport.

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

We regularly have students securing placements and jobs at FTSE 100 companies. There is a perception that only students from red brick universities go to these places. It simply is not the case – our students are massively competitive and win these placements as well.

Nathan ClarkeProfessor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics

Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects.
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, ҹèÊÓÆµ City Council, ҹèÊÓÆµ Marine Labs and ҹèÊÓÆµ Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Following an , the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the ҹèÊÓÆµ. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at ҹèÊÓÆµ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Tamar Engineering Project
The Tamar Engineering Project is open for applications to ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study. Successful applicants will receive:
  • £3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
  • £1,500 fee waiver per annum
  • one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Applications close on 30 June 2025

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Careers Hub

Apply

Secure your place this September

Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the ҹèÊÓÆµ.
Check what you need to do
Three students sitting on a wall at the Barbican eating fish and chips
 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

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 admissions team.

A levels

104 points from minimum of 2 A levels in any subject

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.

International Baccalaureate

26-30 overall – English and mathematics must be included.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
I622
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
ҹèÊÓÆµ

Other routes into this course

The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year

Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning computer science through an additional foundation year, gaining hands-on skills across a range of topics.

 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
UCAS course code
I622
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
ҹèÊÓÆµ

Other routes to this course

If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the ҹèÊÓÆµ International College (UPIC) .
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the ҹèÊÓÆµ.
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.