Abertay University named first Scottish Unreal Engine Academic Partner

Abertay University named first Scottish Unreal Engine Academic Partner

Abertay University has been announced as the first Scottish Academic Partner of Unreal Engine.

Unreal Engine is a 3D creation platform from Epic Games which allows users to create games, visual effects, computer arts and augmented and virtual reality applications.

The engine is used on several Abertay University degree courses including Game Design and Production and Computer Arts.

Students use Unreal Engine to create everything from custom game characters to realistic worlds which become the basis of fully fledged video games.

The partnership recognises that Abertay, as Europe’s top ranked university for games education, is committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities for students using the engine.

It also recognises the expertise of the lecturers who deliver lessons using the platform in their modules.

As an Academic Partner, Abertay University staff and students get early access to limited-availability training events and advance information on internships and hiring events at Epic Games.

Abertay is also featured in the Academic Partner section of the Unreal Engine website, providing information for those studying for a career in the games industry.

Lecturer Mathew Bett said: “We’re delighted to become the first university in Scotland to join the Unreal Engine Academic Partner Programme.

“Our students produce outstanding work each year using the Unreal Engine and it provides them with the skills they need to succeed in industry.

“We’re delighted Epic Games have recognised our efforts and will continue to ensure students develop the skills they need for employment using the engine.”

Mark Flannagan from Epic Games added:  "I was aware of Abertay University's programs more than 20 years ago, even before I entered the video game industry.

“What Abertay has achieved in the intervening time has been extraordinary. Not just providing exemplary educational experiences for their students, but repeatedly innovating, and consistently placing highly in world rankings.

“I was fortunate to be able to visit Abertay in February 2020, before the pandemic travel restrictions, and was highly impressed by their facilities, staff, and student work. 

I'm thrilled they are now part of Epic’s Academic Partner network."