Course content
The course focuses on advanced technical games development, computational problem-solving and research-informed practice. You’ll explore graphics programming, game-based AI, studio simulation and industry practice while developing the technical judgement needed to produce robust, efficient and effective game systems.
You’ll work with contemporary game engines, programming frameworks and software engineering methods. Through practical development, technical experimentation, workflow evaluation and reflective critique, you’ll build a professional portfolio of technical artefacts and prototypes.
The course culminates in a major masters project, where you’ll plan, implement and evaluate an original technical games development project aligned to your chosen specialist area and career goals.
Professional body accreditation
Accredited by TIGA (The Independent Game Developers' Association) as delivering skills relevant to the games industry. TIGA accreditation is applicable to courses meeting any of a wide range of games industry needs, such as programming, art, design and entrepreneurship.
Modules
The modules listed below are an indicative list of the modules that make up the course. Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Our teaching is informed by research, and modules change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline. We aim to ensure that all modules run as scheduled. If for any reason a module cannot be run, we will advise you as soon as possible and provide guidance on selecting an appropriate alternative module.
Advanced Graphics Programming
Discover advanced graphics programming as you explore animation and lighting techniques, including skeletal animation and modern reflectance models. You'll gain hands-on experience with graphical APIs, debug tools, and real-time rendering while developing transferable skills for careers in gaming and research.
Module code: GDEV70028
Game Based Artificial Intelligence
This module equips you with the essential skills required to apply academic AI to game agents. You will develop the ability to evaluate implementations, develop within practical scenarios, and adapt techniques to game AI challenges, making you well-prepared for success in the growing specialism of game AI.
Module code: GDEV70029
Studio Simulation
In this module, youll step into a fully simulated studio environment where you work as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver a game prototype under the direction of academic staff acting as Game Directors. Youll take on specialist roles, use professional production tools, and follow industry workflows such as agile development, sprint planning and milestone reviews. Alongside creating a polished group project, youll also explore professional practice topics including communication, documentation, ethics, entrepreneurship and studio culture, helping you build the skills and confidence needed for the modern games industry.
Module code: GDEV70040
Game Masters Project Research And Planning
In this module, you will define the focus and direction of a substantial postgraduate project. You will develop a clear research question or creative/technical aim, explore relevant literature and professional practice, and plan an appropriate research or development approach. Through structured proposal development and a mid-point review, youll refine ideas, methods and project scope in response to feedback and critical reflection.You will be supported through one-to-one supervision as they explore advanced tools, research methods and professional workflows. This module establishes the intellectual, creative and technical foundations for the final Masters Project, ensuring you are well prepared to progress into independent project delivery.
Module code: GDEV70038
Game Masters Project Implementation And Evaluation
In this module, you will realise and complete a substantial, self-directed Masters project, producing either a professional-quality practical artefact or an academic dissertation. Building on the foundations established in Part One, you will apply advanced discipline-specific skills, research methods and professional workflows to deliver a coherent, original and well-evaluated outcome.Through iterative development, critical evaluation and regular supervision, you will demonstrate autonomy, problem-solving and research-informed decision-making. The completed project forms a central component of the postgraduate portfolio and prepares students for advanced professional or research-focused roles within the games industry and related fields.
Module code: GDEV70037
Industry Practice
In this module, youll work on an industry-aligned brief tailored to your specialist discipline, developing practical work that reflects professional standards and current sector expectations. Youll take part in multidisciplinary lectures on contemporary industry practice and attend focused lectures that support your technical, creative or design development. Through responding to a live-style brief, presenting your ideas and reflecting on your process, youll strengthen the professional skills, communication abilities and industry awareness needed for careers across the games sector.
Module code: GDEV70039