Studying Computer Games Design and Programming

Introducing your course leader, Oliver Rippon

Hi, I’m Oliver Rippon and I’m the course leader for the BSc (Hons) Computer Games Design and Programming course.

I’m a Technical Designer with a passion for crafting unique and engaging gameplay experiences. My expertise spans Unreal Engine and Unity, giving me a strong foundation in game systems and design.

I’m excited to share my knowledge and help you develop your skills in games design and development. Throughout your time at University of Staffordshire, you’ll have opportunities to experiment, create, and refine your ideas into fully realised projects.

Developer Mode | Using Maths to Predict the Future In Games

Maths is fundamental to all computer games. In this episode, lecturers Craig Weightman (Games Programming) and Mike Acosta (Games Art) explore techniques that are commonly used to accurately predict behaviour and simulate a gaming world, from physics to networked gaming.

Enhance your career prospects by engaging with industry professionals

We prepare our students for their career journey by organising our award-winning industry-led mock interviews for all of our final-year game students. You'll have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one interviews with leading members of the UK games industry, and receive detailed and constructive feedback on your CV, portfolio, and interview technique.

Have you explored our virtual campus in Fortnite?

Built by our talented games students, StaffsVerse is the UK’s first university campus to be recreated as a Fortnite island.

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how we brought this innovative project to life!

Explore StaffsVerse

Frequently asked questions

What kind of work placements are available?

You can undertake a placement year with top companies, gaining real-world experience in game design and programming. Past students have secured placements with:

  • Rockstar Games
  • Sony
  • Ubisoft
  • Rare
  • Creative Assembly

How is the course assessed?

The course uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

  • Essays
  • Reports
  • Portfolios
  • Presentations
  • Final year projects
  • Written exams

What career prospects can I expect after graduating?

Graduates can pursue careers in various sectors, including:

  • Game Designer
  • Gameplay Programmer
  • Level Designer
  • Technical Artist
  • Game Producer

Teaching staff

Oliver Rippon

Lecturer

Olly is a technical designer whose primary passion is creating unique and interesting gameplay experiences and systems. His experience in both Unreal Engine and Unity have granted him a wide range of knowledge across the area of games design.

Oliver's profile

Leigh Evans

Course Director - Games Development

Leigh is a lecturer in 2D/3D Game Design and implementation. He has worked in the industry and in both FE and HE, and his interests include retro games, virtual reality, game engines, and applications within the theatre and performance industries.

Christopher Harding

Lecturer In Games Design

Christopher is a lecturer with an enthusiastic approach to game development and storytelling. He has previously worked at Supermassive Games and has a passion for cinematics. He specialises in design theory, cinematics, and narratology.

Your next steps

  1. Accept your offer

    An exciting new chapter awaits you here at University of Staffordshire - we can't wait to meet you. Before you can progress with finance or accommodation choices, you'll need to confirm your offer via UCAS.

    Accept your offer

  2. Apply for student finance

    It's best to arrange your student finance before starting University. You can learn more about student finance and make an application at www.gov.uk/student-finance. Our support team is here to help, get in touch if you have any questions about student finance.

    Enquire about finance

  3. Find accommodation

    Finding a home from home is an important part of the student experience. If you're looking to live close to campus, there's a range of accommodation near to our East London campus surrounded by bars and eateries, along with all the activities the capital has to offer.

    View accommodation

Your Offer Holder Events

You're now part of our offer holder community, and we've planned an exclusive programme of events to help you prepare for becoming a student. These include both virtual and on‑campus sessions.

Keep an eye on your inbox for your invitation to our offer holder events - we'd love to welcome you, answer your questions, and help you feel confident about your next steps.

Your first event will be an interactive session designed to bring your course to life, with real case studies, taster activities, and live challenges tailored to your interests. If you're taking exams this summer, you can get some great tips at our exam preparation session.

At other upcoming events, you'll be able to explore your accommodation options, and find out more about student support and opportunities to earn while you learn. We'll also keep you up to speed on all the key deadlines and next steps, so you are ready for September.

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2026

in the UK for Games Education

Rookies Games Design and Development 2023, 2025

TIGA Best Games Institution 2024, 2025

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021