Computer Game Development
Computer game development is a demanding creative and technical discipline that combines programming, design, mathematics, art and narrative to produce interactive experiences for players. The games industry is one of the largest and most innovative sectors of the global entertainment economy, and it draws on a remarkably wide range of skills, from the software engineering needed to build game engines and manage performance to the design thinking required to create compelling worlds, mechanics and stories. At Wrexham University, this three-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, giving you the preparation you need before progressing into the full degree.
You will develop skills across the technical and design dimensions of game development, beginning with game design principles, 3D software and C++ programming before building on this to work with Unreal Engine in creating narratively inspired environments. The programme gives you experience of the full game development process, from initial concept and design through to implementation and testing, and you will work on team-based game projects that reflect the collaborative nature of professional game development. A placement year gives you direct professional experience in the games industry or a related sector, significantly strengthening your prospects in a competitive job market.
Work placement opportunities are integrated throughout the programme.
Graduates of game development programmes move into careers across the games industry and into related fields in the wider technology and creative sectors. Roles as programmer, game designer, level designer, environment artist, QA tester and technical artist are all common entry points into the industry. The technical skills the degree develops are also applicable in virtual reality, simulation, visual effects and interactive media.
Some graduates move into software engineering roles in technology companies more broadly, while others pursue postgraduate study in game development, computer graphics or a related computing discipline.