Computer Games Programming

Computer games programming lies at the technical core of one of the world's largest and most creative industries. Games programmers build the engines, systems, and tools that make interactive experiences possible, working with mathematics, algorithms, physics simulation, artificial intelligence, graphics pipelines, and audio systems to realise the designs of game designers and the visions of creative directors. It is a discipline that demands both rigorous programming ability and creative problem-solving, and it is one in which technical innovation continues at a remarkable pace.

This three-year, full-time programme at Roehampton includes a foundation year for those who need additional preparation before the main degree content, a placement year, and a year abroad, giving you a full four years of formation that spans academic study, practical experience, and international engagement. You will develop programming skills alongside the technical knowledge needed to build game systems, covering areas such as graphics, game physics, AI for games, data structures, and the tools and workflows used in professional game development. The foundation year builds the technical and mathematical foundations you need to engage fully with the programming content that follows.

Graduates of games programming programmes move into roles in the games industry as gameplay programmers, engine programmers, tools developers, and technical specialists in graphics, AI, or audio. The technical skills are also in demand in industries that use real-time 3D technology beyond games, including virtual and augmented reality, simulation, training, and visual effects. The placement year gives you professional experience and the kind of portfolio work that studio employers use to assess candidates.

Further study in computer science, games technology, or artificial intelligence is an option for those who wish to develop specialist technical expertise.