Computer Games Programming BSc
University of Derby , United Kingdom
Computer Games Programming BSc (Hons)
University of Derby
Computer Games Programming
Program Overview: Computer Games Programming BSc (Hons)
The Computer Games Programming BSc (Hons) at the University of Derby equips you with both the theoretical grounding and practical skills needed to develop compelling computer games for entertainment or serious applications. You will study computer science with a strong emphasis on practical programming skills needed for games development, learning to design, code, and optimise real-time game systems. Derby has a proud heritage in computer games, including connections to the creation of Tomb Raider.
This program is part of the University of Derby's Games@Derby community, sitting alongside BA (Hons) Game Art and BA (Hons) Game Design to simulate a fast-paced, supportive, and team-focused studio environment. You will work with gameplay, tools, and engine programming, focusing on writing fast, efficient code that runs well on modern hardware. In your final year, you collaborate with students from the Game Art degree to create a game from scratch, which is then exhibited at the university's annual Games Expo.
The course benefits from strong links with the regional and national games industry through guest speakers, industry projects, and mentorship. You will study in specialist studios and computer labs equipped with industry-standard hardware and software, including high-performance PCs and VR headsets. The program is also linked to the East Midlands Institute of Technology, providing additional industry connections focused on digital delivery and clean growth.
Key Program Highlights
- Learn to design, code, and optimise real-time game systems using gameplay, tools, and engine programming in industry-standard facilities
- Collaborate in cross-disciplinary teams with Game Art and Game Design students, simulating a real studio environment
- Showcase your final-year game project at the annual Games Expo, gaining exposure to veteran developers and industry professionals
- Optional industrial placement year to build professional experience and strengthen your CV before graduating
Curriculum and Modules
The Computer Games Programming BSc (Hons) curriculum provides a solid foundation in computer science and software engineering before progressing into specialist games programming topics. You will study three modules per semester, delivered through a mixture of interactive lectures, seminars, tutorials, and practical lab sessions. Assessment methods include coursework, portfolios, team projects, oral presentations, and examinations. Please note that modules are subject to change as the university regularly reviews course content.
Programming Fundamentals
20 creditsIntroduces core programming concepts and computational thinking, providing a strong foundation in writing clean, efficient code using industry-relevant languages.
Mathematics for Games
20 creditsCovers essential mathematical concepts for game development including linear algebra, vectors, matrices, and trigonometry applied to real-time graphics and physics.
Game Engine Architecture
20 creditsExplores the design and structure of modern game engines, teaching you how real-time systems are built and how to work with existing engine frameworks.
Gameplay Programming
20 creditsFocuses on implementing game mechanics, player controls, camera systems, and interactive elements that create engaging gameplay experiences.
Artificial Intelligence for Games
20 creditsTeaches AI techniques used in game development, including pathfinding, decision-making systems, behaviour trees, and adaptive difficulty scaling.
Independent Studies Project
40 creditsA large-scale final-year project or research study in an area of your choice, such as procedural generation, point-based rendering, or advanced AI systems for games.
Elective and Specialisation Options
Admission Requirements
The University of Derby welcomes applications from students with a range of qualifications. Your offer will typically be based on your predicted or achieved grades from full Level 3 qualifications. A strong application, relevant experience, and personal statement will be considered where typical criteria are not met. To apply, please submit your application through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- A-LevelsTypical offer based on A-Level grades or equivalent; contact Uni4Edu for the most current entry requirements
- BTECBTEC Extended Diploma or equivalent Level 3 qualifications accepted
- Access to HEAccess to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant subject is accepted
- International BaccalaureateIB Diploma accepted; contact Uni4Edu for specific point requirements
- International QualificationsEquivalent international qualifications are considered; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific requirements
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0 minimum, with at least 5.5 in each band (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing)
- SELTAnother Secure English Language Test at CEFR level B2 or above is accepted
- Pre-sessional EnglishPre-sessional English language programmes available for students who need to improve their English before starting the course
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Derby offers a range of scholarships and discounts to help international students manage the costs of studying in the UK. Scholarships can be applied for once you have received an offer through Uni4Edu. Multiple discounts may be combined to further reduce costs.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship
An automatic scholarship for eligible international students from selected regions, providing a tuition fee reduction in the first year. This award does not require a separate application and is applied automatically when eligibility criteria are met.
Early Payment Discount
International students who pay their annual tuition fee in full ahead of enrolment can benefit from an additional discount. This can be combined with other eligible scholarships for greater savings.
Sports Scholarship
Up to GBP 6,000Available to talented student athletes, this scholarship provides financial support alongside access to specialist training, physiotherapy, and sports science services at the university.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
This degree prepares you for a wide range of careers in game development and the wider technology sector. Because the program has a solid computing and software engineering focus, it opens up excellent prospects across all software development roles in the computing industry. You will graduate with strong programming, mathematics, and problem-solving skills, along with experience working in production-style teams.
Potential Career Roles
Example Employers of Derby Graduates
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Derby holds a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, recognising outstanding student experience and outcomes. The university is ranked in the top 10 UK universities in the Uni Compare Rankings 2026 and continues to perform strongly across national and international league tables, particularly in areas related to computing and game design.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Animation and Game Design | The Guardian University Guide | 9th for career after 15 months (2026) |
| Animation and Game Design | The Guardian University Guide | Top 15 for satisfaction with teaching (2024) |
| Animation and Game Design | The Guardian University Guide | Top 20 for satisfaction with feedback (2024) |
| Teaching Excellence | TEF (Teaching Excellence Framework) | Gold (2023, valid for 4 years) |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Game Design and Development BSc (Hons)
University of Bradford, Bradford, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
June 2025
Gross Tuition
24456 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Games Development, BSc Hons
University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
17975 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Games Animation, Modelling and Effects (including foundation year) - BSc (Hons)
London Metropolitan University, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
April 2025
Gross Tuition
15500 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Computer Games Programming BSc
University of Roehampton, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
17628 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Computer Games (Art) BA
Solent University, Southampton, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
May 2025
Gross Tuition
17750 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
