Computer Games Programming BA (Hons)

Anglia Ruskin University

Become a specialist in your field, whether you want to become a games programmer or a software engineer, with our Computer Games Programming degree in Cambridge.

Our BSc (Hons) Computer Games Programming will take you through the main areas of games development from initial idea generation all the way to releasing a playable and polished game.

As you study you’ll develop specialist skills in areas such as gameplay, artificial intelligence, gaming tools, and mobile gaming, and learn to create software using industry-standard programming languages such as C# and C . This will not only allow you to create games, but give you a secondary skillset as a software developer.

You’ll also develop a deep understanding of the two most popular commercial game engines, Unity and Unreal – knowledge that is highly sought after in the creative industries.

And of course you’ll build a professional portfolio to showcase your skills to future employers and clients.

What does a computer games programmer do?

Studying ARU’s Computer Games Programming degree gives you the opportunity to maximise your skills, gain valuable experience, and develop your professional network. The East of England is a hub for games companies, with Jagex, Frontier Developments and Ninja Theory all based locally. As a Computer Games Programming student at ARU, you’ll be based in the heart of Cambridge.

Our expert teaching and technical staff are here to offer you crucial support and feedback, and help you create an online presence to showcase your work.

Working as a team is crucial to games development and so you’ll take part in collaborative projects with students from other creative courses, developing your skills in teamwork and project management.

Every year, you’ll also tackle live briefs from our industry partners. These might include prototyping game ideas, and even developing teaser games. You’ll have a chance to take part in negotiated briefs too, which may focus more on your particular interests and specialisms.

You’ll also attend games jams, industry talks, conferences and festivals, like our annual gaming-inspired event Gamebridge. At Gamebridge, students from across the country attend industry-led talks and 1-2-1 portfolio reviews, whilst showcasing their work and networking with companies such as Frontier and Jagex, as well as other like-minded students.

Are computer games programmers in demand?

The computer games industry is booming, with growth fuelled by the proliferation of mobile gaming and new technologies such as altered/virtual reality (AR/VR) and next-generation consoles, as well as the popularity of eSports and game streaming and vlogging. According to UKIE the value of the UK video games market reached £7bn in 2020.

With more computer games available in more formats than ever before, gamers have come to expect high-quality gaming experiences. The industry needs highly skilled graduates that can work in multidisciplinary teams.

What are the benefits of a degree in Computer Games Programming?

81% percent of the UK computer games industry is educated to at least undergraduate level, rising to 88% for core games production roles in art or programming. A degree in Computer Games Programming is a signal to employers that you’re serious about a career in computer games and are up to the challenges of the job.

Industry-standard facilities

As a Computer Games student at ARU you'll have access to:

• High-end computers with graphic tablets
• Motion capture equipment
• Render farm
• Industry-standard SLRs (for HDRI capture)
• HD cameras
• Top of the range 3D modelling, animation, and compositing software including Maya, Motion Builder, 3DS Max, Mudbox, ZBrush and Unity 3D

Our Computer Games Technical Officer will be on hand to offer training and support. You'll also have access to all our other creative facilities and equipment.