Studying Computer Games Programming

Introducing your course leader, Paul Roberts

Hi, I’m Paul Roberts and I’m the course leader for the BSc (Hons) Computer Games Programming course.

I have worked across the industry in a variety of senior and principal roles that cover games programming and game AI more specifically. The games companies I have developed for include Activision, Sumo Digital, Traveller's Tales, Team 17, and other smaller indie studios. I have worked on titles such as Call of Duty, Worms, Lego games, alongside other unannounced projects. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Computer Games Programming and a Master's by Research in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence), my research focuses on believable decision-making in the sport of boxing. I have written books on game AI, and am the editor of the hugely popular Game AI Uncovered series of books. 

I look forward to welcoming you to University of Staffordshire and supporting you in developing the skills needed for a career in games development.

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

Can I join any games related societies or clubs?

University of Staffordshire offers a variety of gaming societies, including League of Legends Society, Valorant Society, Call of Duty Society, Super Smash Bros Society and Overwatch 2 Society. Some of the societies host a range of events each year such as tournaments, fundraisers, gaming parties and the annual campus clash where students play against each other. 

What programming languages will I learn?

The course covers programming languages such as C++, C#, and Java.

Are there any industry placements available?

Yes, you can complete a one-year industry placement after your second year.

What kind of projects will I work on?

You will develop a portfolio that includes creating games, studying game AI and physics, computer graphics using DirectX and OpenGL, and network programming for multiplayer games.

Are there opportunities to work with industry professionals during the course?

The course includes guest speakers from the industry who discuss cutting-edge game development tools and processes. Additionally, you will have opportunities to pitch your games to commercial studios such as Matmi, Team 17, and Media Molecule, providing valuable industry exposure and feedback.

Teaching staff

Paul Roberts

Senior Lecturer

Paul is a leading name in Game AI. He has a wealth of experience in the field, both professionally & academically. He has worked for many games studios in the UK and is credited on multiple games. He has written and edited several books in the area.

Paul's profile

Craig Weightman

Senior Lecturer

Craig is a lecturer in Games Programming and has an active research interest in gamification and its uses in developing society.

Craig's profile

Dr David White

Senior Lecturer

Course leader for PhDs. Senior lecturer in Computer Games Programming – 3D graphics programming and AI.

David's profile

James Banton

Lecturer

James works across Games Development and Games Programming and actively researches Artificial Intelligence in games, focusses on employability for students and readying students throughout their work for industry standard.

James's profile

Davin Ward

Interim Course Director

Davin is the Course Director for Game Technologies. Having experience in running his own indie games company he brings this knowledge and understanding into his teaching. As Course Director he is responsible for supporting placements opportunities.

Davin's profile

Benjamin Williams

Senior Lecturer

Kieran Osborne

Lecturer

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. Apply for your accommodation

    We have a range of accommodation to choose from to suit all lifestyles and budgets, including en-suite and accessible rooms. Browse rooms and find out how to apply.

    Browse University 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 is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

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

Research Excellence Framework 2021