Next start date: September 2013
Degree type: BSc (Hons)
UCAS Code: G470 BSc/CGT
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
How to Apply
Why choose this course?
Such is the shortage of well-trained and highly-skilled computer games programmers that the career opportunities open to you when you graduate with our BSc (Hons) in Computer Games Technology are virtually endless. This world-leading course is academically challenging and will develop your skills in game programming, real-time interactive graphics, sound and mathematics. In addition to the specialist core studies, there is freedom within the course to take optional modules to develop interests in areas associated with computer game development. You will leave us with confidence and skills to work in one of the most demanding industries in the world, and at a distinct advantage over other computing graduates intending a career in the games industry.
What you study
The goal of the CGT programme is to create graduates that have the essential skills and knowledge required to develop computer games software in an industry where technology is constantly evolving.
The subject areas covered in the course focus on the essential principles of computer games programming using the latest technology available. This enables our graduates to apply these principles to create software for any platform that computer games are developed for.
Throughout the course students are constantly engaged in practical-based activities ensuring that they are able to apply what they learn within the context of computer games development.
Students participate in group-based projects with others studying different game-related subject areas such as game design or computer arts. This provides valuable experience of how game development teams operate within industry.
“I’ve really enjoyed the course not only because of all of the hands-on industry relevant experience but also because the course is filled with students who are as passionate about making games as I am.” – Erin, U.S.A.
“CGT has given me experience on platforms from handhelds and mobiles right through to PC and current generation consoles, which will be invaluable when I apply for jobs in the industry” – Ian, U.K.
How you learn and are assessed
You will spend around 12-15 hours per week in lectures, tutorials and laboratories. Lectures are used to present key concepts, theories and techniques. Tutorials and laboratory-based activities increase your understanding of the subject and allow you to develop your competence and confidence in technological and theoretical work.
During the course you will be required to actively participate in group work, discussions, seminars, and private study.
There is a mixed assessment strategy used on the course. Most modules are assessed through coursework, which may include project work and student-led presentation. Some modules use a mixture of coursework and formal examination.
Minimum Entrance Requirements
Higher AABB; A Level BBC; ILC (H) BBBBB
Essential subjects: Mathematics (min. grade B) at Scottish Higher or AS Level.
Advanced entry (year 2)
A Level: AAB (to include Mathematics & Computer Science)
Overseas/EU
All applicants are required to provide certified proof of competence in English Language and the University's minimum requirements are listed here
USA Applicants - US High School Diploma along with either AP or SAT scores. If the US High School Diploma is offered with AP scores then at least two, but preferably three subjects at AP (two of which should be technology related, e.g. computing, physics) at grade 4. If the US High School Diploma is offered with SAT scores, then a minimum of 600 in writing, critical reading and mathematical elements of the SAT Reasoning Test and a minimum of 600 in the relevant SAT Subject Tests (with the subjects being technology related is required).
Alternative Qualifications
Applications are generally assessed on the basis of standard school leaving qualifications such as SQA Highers or GCE A Levels. For those with alternative qualifications, consideration is given to professional qualifications or other forms of formal academic learning as well as experience gained that could provide evidence of ability to benefit from a particular course.
For further advice please use our Ask a Question section.
Career prospects
On graduating, you will possess a mathematics/games-orientated programming degree which is highly sought after by the computer games industry. The BSc (Hons) Computer Games Technology degree was created in response to the acute shortage of game programmers within the industry, and is designed to meet the industry requirements outlined by Skillset. The University works closely with leading game developers such as Sony Computers Entertainment Europe, Electronic Arts, Codemasters and Denki, making graduates from the course highly employable within these industries.
Graduates have found employment as games, graphics and network programmers in a wide variety of different areas such as creating console games for Sony PlayStation3, Nintendo Wii, and Microsoft XBox 360, to programming handheld devices such as the Nintendo DS and the latest smartphones. While pursuing their studies some students have taken advantage of the University’s enterprise initiatives to found their own start-up companies.
Want to know more
Admissions Tutor: Dr Kenny McAlpine
Tel: +44 (0) 1382 308600
email: institute@abertay.ac.uk
| Fee Category | September 2013 Fees |
Scholarships & Bursaries |
| Scottish and other EU students |
£1820 per year. Apply to the Student Awards Agency |
Other forms of support |
| English, Welsh and Northern Irish students |
£7000 per year (max. amount payable You can apply for financial assistance, |
Bursaries & Scholarships |
| Overseas (non EU) students |
£10250 per year. Fees may be subject to annual increase. |
Overseas Scholarships |
Fees shown are payable annually, and may be subject to increase each year.
