Game Programmers drive the game development process; creating the framework, functionality and interaction in the game. Regarded as the essential ingredient in the development process, game programmers are highly valued and continually in demand.

The course teaches students languages and technologies used in the games industry, including C++, C#, OpenGL, game engines as well as developing problem-solving skills. This program has been developed in response to industry needs and runs for two years, full-time.

COURSE CONTENT

STAGE ONE

The first year of the course is a foundation year, intended to provide students with advanced game programming skills. The course takes students through languages and technologies used heavily by the gaming industry, including C, C++, C#, OpenGL, game libraries and version controls as well as developing maths, problem solving, and practical programming proficiency.

Although the course takes a games approach, it is also suitable for anyone wanting to learn real-time application development skills which are highly sought after across all areas of programming and simulation.

STAGE TWO

In the second year the course covers specific algorithms and technologies used in game development and builds on the students core language skills. Students cover more advanced development techniques as well as learning how to develop using industry standard game engines.

By the end of the year students will have experience in 3D graphics, Artificial Intelligence, Networking, Physics & Collision, Console Hardware, Profiling, and Managing medium to large scale software projects. Students focus on developing their skills in all aspects of C++ programming before focusing on specialised areas, and developing across multiple platforms.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

• Game engine programmer
• Physics engine programme
• Graphics engine programmer
• Artificial intelligence programmer
• Sound programmer
• Gameplay programmer
• Software engineer
• UI programmer
• Input programmer

A range of game programming roles within game development including Gameplay Programmer, Network Engineer, Graphics-Shader Developer, 3D Game Engine Programmer, Tools Developer and many others.

Graduates would also use these skills in a range of similar roles within games-based simulation and training as well as general software development roles.