BSc (Hons) Computing (Games Programming) · concepts which you will utilise in your final year project. Year 3 develops advanced knowledge and skills. You will explore leading edge

UCAS Code: I610

Course

Length:

3 Years Full-Time, Typically 4.5 Years

Part-Time

Start Dates: September 2018, September 2019

Department: Department of Computer Science

Location: Edge Hill University

• Underpin your knowledge of softwaredevelopment with solid computing principles,ensuring your employment prospects are excellentacross the computing industry;

• Develop expertise in the design andimplementation of games software, from computergraphics and digital animation, to games engines,mobile apps and streaming media;

• Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT,for the purposes of fully meeting the academicrequirement for registration as a Chartered ITProfessional.

This degree is for those who wish to study gamesprogramming while also acquiring the technical abilitiesto enhance their future employability in a wide range ofareas. While the focus of the modules relates tocomputer gaming, the course has been designed toprovide extensive skills and knowledge that can beapplied to a number of industry sectors. The programme

BSc (Hons) Computing (GamesProgramming)

Studying Abroad Option Available Sandwich Year Option Available International Students Can Apply

Work Placement Opportunity Professional Accreditation

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has been aligned to the current SFIAplus skill standards,which are widely recognised among the IT industry andadopted by the British Computer Society (BCS). Thismeans that graduates will not only meet the industryexpectations for programming roles, but can take the first

steps towards attaining chartered status within theindustry.

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Course in Depth

What will I study?

In Year 1 you will study a balanced range of currentcomputing topics from fundamentals of analysis andconstruction of systems to multimedia technologies. Partof your first year studies will look at career options withinthe computing and IT industry.

Year 2 enhances your programming skills by exploring arange of techniques relevant to the gaming industry, andaligned with the development of novel user interfacesand controllers which enhance the game players'experience. You will also experiment with toolsets whichare appropriate in the industry, such as 3D gamingengines and 3D modeling tools, introducing coreconcepts which you will utilise in your final year project.

Year 3 develops advanced knowledge and skills. You willexplore leading edge concepts related to thedevelopment of games which can be deployed acrossmultiple platforms, utilising industry-standard tools andframeworks. Creativity and innovation drive thedevelopment of your final year project in which you willcultivate your own original ideas and build upon thetheoretical underpinning provided in the programme.

How will I study?

Our teaching methods have been designed inconsultation with leading employers in the region,ensuring you gain relevant experience and use industrystandard equipment. As well as lectures, modules usestudent seminars and there is extensive laboratory workwhich give you the chance to express your own opinionsand ideas.

To enhance your employability, you will be givenopportunities to work together and develop the essentialpeople skills to complement your technical ability.

How will I be assessed?

The pattern of assessment is varied and is designed toensure you acquire a range of skills, particularly thoserequired by future employers. You will design and writeprograms, write reports and essays, critically analyse

documents, deliver oral presentations and undertakeexaminations. We want you to develop an ability to workindependently and as part of a team.

Who will be teaching me?

You will be taught by staff who are passionate aboutstudent learning and development. The programme teamare specialists in computing and active researchers inareas including mobile computing, distributed systems,e-commerce, web information architecture, visualisationand applications of problem-based learning in computingand information systems. Academic staff are regularcontributors to academic conferences and journals.

A Great Study Environment

The Department of Computer Science is based in thestate-of-the-art £13m Technology Hub. Thispurpose-built development offers highly contemporarysuites of outstanding facilities for Computer Sciencestudents.

Our modern computer laboratories are equipped withhigh-specification computers, high-resolution screensand the latest hardware and software.

A four-screen CAVE (Computer Augmented VirtualEnvironment) provides a super immersive 3D virtualenvironment, enabling users to immerse themselves in a

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virtual room and experience real life scenarios in 4Kresolution.

There are also specialist laboratories for networking andgames programming, in addition to a specialist researchlaboratory, open access laboratory, a Harvard stylelecture theatre, and 'The Hatchery', a working space fornew business ideas.

Learning resources include robots and a roboticssimulator, wired and wireless networking hardware,graphics software, web development tools, softwaredevelopment environments, big data servers, eyetrackers, giant 3D interactive teaching screens, and otherspecialist software required for studying forensics andinternet security techniques.

The department has strong links with industry and thecurriculum is kept current and highly relevant throughinput from our Employer Advisory Panel.

A dedicated Enterprise Projects Team and Web Factorysocial enterprise initiative recruit students to paid workon a range of commercial projects. This provides you withthe opportunity to gain experience in a commercialenvironment. You will also be actively supported indeveloping solutions for local businesses through yourcoursework.

Competitions including 'University TechnologyChallenge' and 'Hackathon', organised in collaborationwith companies such as Barclays, the BBC and Talk Talk,allow you to show invention and initiative through, forexample, inventing new apps and presenting a businesscase in a highly competitive environment.

An annual employability conference and specialistcareers fair prepare you for employment. You can alsoengage with research through the 'INSPIRE' initiative,with some of our students having papers published atinternational conferences.

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Modules

Level 4 (Year 1 of Full-Time Programme)

CIS1107: Foundations of Computer Science (20 credits)Foundations of Computer Science introduces you to the concepts and practices of problem solving through a series ofinnovative class seminars and individual experiments. You will learn to identify a problem, analyse it, and produce astructured solution. Exploring common issues within computing, you will also see how all of the separate areas merge,overlap and depend on each other in order for a robust computing system to be developed.

CIS1108: Digital World: Information Systems and Design (20 credits)Digital World: Information Systems and Design explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned bycomputing technology. The module will develop your understanding of the essential concepts of systems analysis,including identifying systems processes, understanding business needs and presenting appropriate IT solutions. Youwill then apply this knowledge of systems analysis and design methods to make suggestions for improvement of abusiness, its processes and information systems.

CIS1109: Digital World: Computer Architecture and Networks (20 credits)Digital World: Computer Architecture and Networks explores how the world of the 21st century is underpinned bycomputing technology while challenging you to envision your future developments as a Computing professional. Themodule discusses how current and modern computer architectures operates. It also analyses the technology on whichcomputer architecture depends, starting with current central processing units (CPUs) and their instruction sets andprogressing to the principles of modern multitasking operating systems that are supported by the underlyinghardware architectures. An important aspect of modern computer technology is networking. The module introducesand covers basic principles of networks, their interconnecting components and protocols used in enabling reliablecommunications.

CIS1110: Web Design and Development (20 credits)Web Design and Development is a fusion of two distinct areas in the world of web content production. The modulewill enable you to develop a sound understanding of the World Wide Web, the related technologies, the relationshipsbetween them and also their use. You will also explore colour and design theories, layout and typography. In addition,the module provides an appropriate setting to introduce some of the more powerful, user friendly web developmenttools used widely in the industry today, along with HTML and CSS and both client and server side scripting.

CIS1111: Programming: Concepts to Construction 1 (20 credits)Programming: Concepts to Construction 1 provides a practical introduction to the fundamentals of anobject-oriented approach to software development. You will be introduced to the analytical techniques and processesthat are essential for specifying, designing and implementing applications.

CIS1112: Programming: Concepts to Construction 2 (20 credits)Programming: Concepts to Construction 2 provides a practical introduction to the fundamentals of anobject-oriented approach to software development. You will explore and develop object-oriented modellingtechniques and receive an introduction to programming through event-driven program design and graphical userinterfaces.

Language modules, delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, are available to study as an integral part of this degree.

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A single Language module can be studied instead of CIS1107 Foundations of Computer Science.

Level 5 (Year 2 of Full-Time Programme)

CIS2147: Programming Languages: Theory to Practice (20 credits)Programming Languages: Theory to Practice provides an insight into the theoretic and practical concepts, andapplication of programming for problem solving. You will develop a critical understanding of the application of avariety of programming styles to a range of real-world problems, and develop a critical understanding of the datastructure used for solving problems and strategies available when testing software.

CIS2150: Games Engines (20 credits)Games Engines develops your understanding of the role that games engines play in the development of interactivecomputer games. Creating an engagingly realistic and/or immersive experience in modern video games depends oncreating complex, dynamic behaviour of the game characters or objects. This module explores the two fundamentalcomponents necessary to implement engaging game behaviour, namely physics and artificial intelligence. You will gainan in-depth understanding of how these components are facilitated through the use of games engines.

CIS2155: Mobile Apps (20 credits)Mobile Apps covers the emerging area of mobile computing and equips you with the knowledge and experience ofdeveloping mobile applications for different types of mobile devices. You will develop an understanding of the systemarchitectures that can be employed in mobile internet applications and investigate various mobile software andhardware platforms.

CIS2160: Computer Graphics and Modelling (20 credits)Computer Graphics and Modelling develops an in-depth technical and theoretical understanding of the techniquesused in producing computer graphics. 2D graphics will be covered, but particular emphasis is placed on understanding3D graphics and the fundamental requirements for implementing a 3D rendering solution. The module considerscurrent concepts and practical applications, as well as the mathematics underlying computer graphics by exploring thehuman visual system.

CIS2161: Digital Design and Production (20 credits)Digital Design and Production develops an insight into specialist, detailed practical and contextual insight into the useof visual effects. The module offers advanced technical workshops that deliver software training in particle generation,animated graphics, advanced compositing and cross-platform production. You will also have the opportunity to engagein specialist study in the key aspects of contemporary CGI animation including character development, CGIconstruction, modelling and animation, environment design, SFX techniques and processes relating to CGI, andmulti-platform animation practices.

CIS2162: Employability (20 credits)Employability simulates, as accurately as possible, what it's like to work in a given Computer Science specialism. Youwill be introduced to the "world of work" via a simulated work environment, as part of a team representing a fictionalcompany but which need to produce real products or engage in realistic work-related activities. A 15 day placementwill also enhance essential employability skills and provide you with the opportunity to relate theory to practice, buildon your transferable skills and evaluate your learning.

Level 6 (Year 3 of Full-Time Programme)

CIS3140: Research and Development Project (40 credits)Research and Development Project provides you with the opportunity to show individual creativity and

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originality and apply appropriate knowledge and skills taught throughout the programme. The module requires you todemonstrate investigative, problem-solving, communication, management and other transferable skills as youundertake an individual project. You will conduct in-depth work on a substantial problem. This will include researchingand analysing the problem and identifying and achieving a solution.

CIS3145: Distributed Systems (20 credits)Distributed Systems equips you with broad knowledge for building distributed computer systems. You will learn themain concepts of parallel and distributed systems. A number of modern and representative case studies (systems builton different middleware technologies) will be studied. Practical implementations of a small distributed system will alsobe undertaken.

CIS3147: Streaming Media (20 credits)Streaming Media is a standard feature in many games ranging from the development process to the reporting medium.In this module you will look at the technical implementation and limits of platforms such as OnLive and explore thetechnology that allows games, such as World of Warcraft, to stream content dynamically to the user while still allowingthem to play. You will also consider the effect that streaming media has had on games reporting and sales, including theadvent of "Let's Players" and the boom of game streaming on platforms such as Twitch.tv.

CIS3149: Interface Programming (20 credits)Interface Programming provides an insight into the issues relating to the design and implementation of userinterfaces. The development of new technologies and libraries that offer richer functionality to interface developersoffers the opportunity to explore different mechanisms for the creation of interfaces. You will develop a criticalunderstanding of these mechanisms as well as the relationship between the end user, the interface designer and thesoftware developer through the development lifecycle that takes place. You will also gain an insight into the humanfactors that offer key determinants to support decisions in the design process.

CIS3156: Intelligent Systems (20 credits)Intelligent Systems focuses upon the artificial intelligence (AI) techniques that are embedded within many games toadd greater depth and challenges to players. The module explores the theory behind AI programming and provides theopportunity to develop your skills in writing AI code, using a range of techniques and theories which are relevant to thegaming industry, among others. You will be introduced to paradigms which facilitate the creation of AI routines andenable you to integrate these concepts into gaming code.

Timetables

Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You canexpect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while wemake every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place onany day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.

Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes aresubject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellationof, courses.

Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies, revisions to subject benchmarksstatements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right tomake variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.

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Entry Criteria

Entry Requirements

• Academic Year 2018/19 Entry: Typical offer112 UCAS Tariff points, for which no specificsubjects are required, plus evidence of numeracy;

• Academic Year 2019/20 Entry: Typical offer112 UCAS Tariff points, for which no specificsubjects are required, plus GCSE Mathematics atGrade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent).

Example Offers

Some examples of how you can achieve 112 UCAS Tariffpoints are detailed below.

• A Levels – BBC;

• BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTECQCF qualifications) – Distinction, Merit, Merit(DMM);

• Access to Higher Education Diploma – 45 creditsat Level 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and30 credits at Merit. The required total can beattained from various credit combinations.

Please note, the above examples may differ from actualoffers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awardsmay also be accepted.

As long as you have a minimum of two A Levels (orequivalent), there is no maximum number ofqualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. Thisincludes additional qualifications such as the WelshBaccalaureate and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ),AS Levels that haven't been continued to A Level, andGeneral Studies AS or A Level awards.

For further information on how you can meet the entryrequirements, including details of

alternative qualifications, please visitwww.edgehill.ac.uk/offers.

EU students can get country-specific information aboutthe University's entry requirements and equivalentnational qualifications at www.edgehill.ac.uk/eu.

International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international for information on the entry criteria foroverseas applicants.

English Language Requirements

International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score nolower than 5.5 in each individual component, or anequivalent English language qualification.

If your current level of English is half a band lower, eitheroverall or in one or two elements, our Pre-SessionalEnglish course might be for you.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Edge Hill University recognises learning gainedelsewhere, whether through academic credit andqualifications acquired from other relevant courses ofstudy or through recognition of an individual'sprofessional and employment experience (also referredto as 'experiential learning').

Previous learning that is recognised in this way may beused towards meeting the entry requirements for aprogramme and/or for exemption from part of aprogramme. It is your responsibility to make a claim forrecognition of prior learning. For guidance, please consultthe University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy andcontact the faculty in which you are interested instudying.

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Career Prospects

What are my career prospects?

You will gain the technical knowledge to enter a career incomputer gaming as well as the programming skills forroles within the wider computing industry. Relevancetowards employers is maintained by closely aligning theobjectives of the course to the current SFIAplus skillsstandard for relevant career paths, which is widely usedamongst the IT industry.

The programme is accredited by BCS, The CharteredInstitute for IT, for the purposes of fully meeting theacademic requirement for registration as a Chartered ITProfessional. Successfully completing an accreditedhonours degree is the first step to full BCS membershipand to being awarded chartered status.

How can I enhance my employability?

It is useful to consider, even before you apply, how youwill spend your time while studying and make the most ofyour university experience.

Optional, additional activities may be available on thisdegree which could help to prepare you for a stimulatingand rewarding career. These include:

• Sandwich Years - you may have the opportunity toapply to complete a sandwich year placement,usually as the third year of a four year degree, andgain highly relevant work experience;

• Erasmus+ and Study Abroad - you may have theopportunity to apply to spend time studying orworking abroad, usually as the third year of a fouryear degree, enabling you to immerse yourself in adifferent culture;

• Language Learning - you may be able to selectlanguage modules, delivered at the Edge HillLanguage Centre, as an integral part of your degree(for which you will gain academic credits).Alternatively, it may be possible to participate inLanguage Steps classes as additional study.

Please note, the availability of these additional activitiescannot be guaranteed for all students. Depending onavailability and the number of students wanting toparticipate, there may be a competitive applicationprocess for sandwich year placements or studying abroadopportunities or you may be required to secure a relevantplacement yourself.

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Finance

Tuition Fees

If you are a prospective UK or EU student who will bejoining this undergraduate degree on a full-time basis inacademic year 2018/19, the tuition fee will be £9,250 perannum. Tuition fees for international students enrollingon the programme in academic year 2018/19 are£11,800 per annum.

If you are a prospective UK or EU student who will bejoining this undergraduate degree on a part-time basis inacademic year 2018/19, the tuition fee will be £77 percredit, i.e. £1,540 per 20 credit module. 360 credits arerequired to complete an undergraduate degree.

The University may administer a small inflationary rise intuition fees, in line with Government policy, insubsequent academic years as you progress through thecourse.

Financial Support

Subject to eligibility, UK and EU students can apply for aTuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the fullcost of tuition fees. UK and EU students may also beeligible to apply for additional funding to help with livingcosts.

For comprehensive information about the financialsupport available to eligible UK and EU students joiningthis programme in academic year 2018/19, together withdetails of how to apply for potential funding, please viewour Money Matters 2018/19 guide for your intendedmode of study.

• Money Matters 2018/19Full-Time: www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfinance2018

• Money Matters 2018/19

Part-Time: www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfinance2018pt

Financial support information for international studentscan be found at www.edgehill.ac.uk/international/fees.

Scholarships

Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships with acompetitive application process for prospective full-timeundergraduate students. These scholarships aren't linkedto academic success and celebrate determination, talentand achievement beyond your coursework, for instancein creativity, enterprise, ICT, performance, sport orvolunteering.

Additional scholarships, which you may qualify to receive,reward outstanding grades and are available to eligibleUK and EU students.

To find out more about scholarships, to assess youreligibility, and to meet some of our dedicated scholarshipwinners, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

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Apply

How to Apply

If you wish to study full-time, apply online through UCASat www.ucas.com. Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyucas tofind out more about the application process.

If you wish to study part-time, apply directly to Edge HillUniversity at www.edgehill.ac.uk/apply-part-time.

Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us andformally enrol as a student, you will be subject to theprovisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions andpolicies which apply to our students. These are availableat www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

Visit Us

If you are considering applying to study at Edge Hill

University, the best way to gain an insight into studentlife is to discover our stunning campus for yourself byattending an open day. You can view dates and book yourplace at www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays.

Alternatively, if you are unable to attend an open day, youcan find out more about all of our events for prospectivestudents, including monthly campus tours,at www.edgehill.ac.uk/visitus.

Request a Prospectus

If you would like to explore our full range of degreesbefore you apply, you can order an undergraduateprospectus at www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradprospectus.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about this programme or whatit's like to study at Edge Hill University, please contact:

• Course Enquiries

• Tel: 01695 657000

• Email: [email protected]

International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email [email protected] withany queries about overseas study.

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