BSc (Hons) Computer Games Programming

Why study Computer Games Programming at ARU?

• Develop specialist skills in areas such as gameplay, artificial intelligence, gaming tools, and mobile gaming, and learn to create software using industry-standard programming languages such as C# and C++.
• Develop a deep understanding of the two most popular commercial game engines, Unity and Unreal – knowledge that is highly sought after in the creative industries.
• Build a professional portfolio to showcase your skills to future employers and clients.
• Attend exciting industry events including games jams, industry talks, conferences, and festivals, such as our annual student games fest Gamebridge, where you can show your work to major industry reps.
• Work collaboratively in a development studio environment that reflects the professional workplace.
• Study in a region renowned for computer games: the East of England has nearly 200 active games companies, and Cambridge is home to 26 games companies including Jagex, Frontier Developments and Ninja Theory (source: Ukie Games Map, January 2024).

Our BSc (Hons) Computer Games Programming degree course will take you through the main areas of games development from initial idea generation all the way to releasing a playable and polished game.

You’ll not only learn to create games but gain a secondary skillset as a software developer.

82% of the UK computer games industry is educated to at least undergraduate level, according to UKIE’s 2022 census.

Our BSc (Hons) Computer Games Programming degree course will prepare you for programming-focused roles such as gameplay programmer, artificial intelligence programmer, tools programmer, and mobile programmer. You could also apply your skills to software development.

We recognise that experience and contacts help you stand out from the crowd when you’re applying for jobs. That’s why, while you’re studying for your Computer Games Programming degree, you’ll have numerous opportunities to meet and work with companies from our extensive industry network. ARU students have previously undertaken internships and work experience with ARM, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, Frontier and Just Flight.

We’ll help you develop a professional portfolio and online presence from day one, so you can showcase your skills to potential employers and clients. You’ll also graduate with skills in information literacy, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and project organisation and management, all of which will serve you well throughout your career.

After you graduate, you might decide to stay at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our MSc Computer Games Development (Computing) degree. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and save 20% on your fees.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

You will need to dedicate time outside of your course to develop your employability, through placements, internships or volunteering or through our partner scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). You can evidence this experience on your CV and talk about it in interviews to give you that all important edge.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.