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.

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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.

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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

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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 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

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.

Teaching staff

Thomas Oliver

Senior Lecturer

Tom comes to education from an industry background running his own indie games company. He specialises in realising game mechanics through use of commercial engines but is also proficient in audio development and all things maths related.

Thomas's profile

Peter Cooper

Lecturer

Peter has taught software engineering, web development, games development and computer science. He is commencing a research MSc in Computer Science, developing areas of interest such as Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Gaming and Gamification.

Peter'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

David James

Course Director

I am a Games Technical Design Lecturer at Staffordshire University, specialising in the design principles and technical implementation of game software.

David's profile

Luke Barsby

Lecturer

Luke is a Computer Game’s Developer as well as an active researcher in the Extended Reality field. His main area of interest is using mixed realty as a tool for the design of interactive exhibits.

Luke'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

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
for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

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

Research Excellence Framework 2021

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

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021