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 Undergraduate  

BSc (Hons)

Computer Games Programming example

Why study Computer Games Programming example at Derby?

  • Spend the first year learning the fundamentals of computer science and finding out what your passions are and where your talents lie
  • Learn in our state-of-the-art-facilities including our XR (cross-reality) lab
  • Gain both the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills you need to develop first-rate games
  • Choose to take an optional industrial placement year which will add substance to your CV and broaden your professional networks
  • Benefit from the flexibility of transferring to another course in our Computing portfolio after your first year
  • You won’t have any written exams as all assessment is through coursework
Top10in the UK for student satisfaction with teachingThe Guardian University Guide 2023 - Animation and Game Design subject area
Top20in Animation and Game DesignThe Guardian University Guide 2023 - Animation and Game Design subject area
Top10in the UK for student satisfaction with the courseThe Guardian University Guide 2023 - Animation and Game Design subject area

An impressive portfolio of skills

On this dynamic course you’ll be equipped with both the theoretical grounding and the practical skills you need to develop compelling computer games. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of computer science, the theoretical field that underpins all software development. This knowledge prepares you for long-term employability and success as a computer programmer of any kind but applies in particular to the breadth and complexity of computer games development. 

You will study computer science with a strong emphasis on the practical programming skills needed for games development.  

In your final year, you'll get to work with students on the BA (Hons) Computer Games Modelling and Animation degree to create a game. The games are then exhibited as part of our Games Expo where there public will get to try out your creation. You’ll also meet and hear from industry professionals. Previous attendees have included Sumo Digital, Mediatonic and Bloc Digital. 

Pursue your personal interests

Through the Independent Studies module, we give you the chance to tailor your studies to match your professional interests and career ambitions. You will develop a large-scale project or conduct a research study into an area of your choice. Previous topics explored by our students include point based rendering, procedural generation of realistic game levels and multi-level AI for elastic difficulty scaling. 

Benefit from flexibility

You’ll gain fundamental knowledge in your first year studying modules alongside students on our other Computing and Mathematics degrees. At the end of your first year, you’ll then have the option to transfer to one of the following courses: 

You’ll go on to study more specialist modules in your second year with further options to tailor your studies to an area of your interest in your final year. 

Facilities

You’ll get to use cutting-edge software development tools in our industry-standard laboratories. Facilities include:

Kedleston Road, Derby Campus entrance

Undergraduate Open Days

The best way to find out if studying at Derby is right for you is to experience an Open Day. Get a feel for the city and campus, tour our first-class facilities and see where you could be living.

Book your Undergraduate Open DayBook your Undergraduate Open Day

Building Strong Industry Connections

We believe that real-world experience is an essential part of academic success. Our partnerships with leading organisations across various sectors ensure our students gain valuable insights, hands-on opportunities, and access to the latest industry innovations.

Through collaboration with our industry partners, we bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, preparing our graduates to thrive in competitive global markets.

Getting you career ready

Your degree is only part of your story.

We're here to help prepare you for life after university.

Career Support Image

94%
of UK graduates are in employment or further study.

2nd
for employability.
Uni Compare Annual Student Review Rankings 2026.

87%
of UK graduates say their current activity is meaningful.

Getting you career ready

Your degree is only part of your story. We're here to help prepare you for life after university. We'll tailor your talents and help you build the tools that will set you apart when you are ready to look for your first graduate role.

Our staff have valuable and varied experiences in the workplace and beyond. And we have great links to industry. This means you'll have opportunities to apply your learning. You'll find work experience that's directly relevant to your studies, including placements and real projects set by businesses.

Our promise

We promise to provide an inclusive approach; supporting, advising and guiding you on your employability journey to success. We will listen to your needs and signpost opportunities for you to engage with up to three years after graduation.

Find out more about our Careers and Employability services

Additional information about your studies

Course updates

The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.

If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.