BSc (Hons) Computer Games at University of Essex

Programme overview

The BSc (Hons) Computer Games is a three-year degree, extendable to four with an optional placement or study abroad year. It builds a foundation in the mechanics, concepts and techniques of computer games alongside core computer science theory, preparing students to design and implement their own games, virtual reality training and gamification. It is taught at the Colchester Campus.

Department: School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering | Duration: 3 years (4 years with an optional placement or study abroad year) | Intake: October 2027 | Study mode: full-time; year abroad option, placement year option | Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 covers Team Project Challenge, Mathematics for Computing, Introduction to Programming, Object-Oriented Programming, Introduction to Databases, Web Development, Data Structures and Algorithms I and Fundamentals of Digital Systems. Later years include Computer Game Design, Computer Game Programming, C++ Programming, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, Physics-Based Games, High-Level Games Development and an Individual Capstone Project Challenge.

Career pathways

Graduates pursue careers in computer games (development, programming, intelligence), IT (computer and information research, network architecture, database administration), healthcare information and technology, business and finance (financial and data analysis, risk management) and energy. Graduates have progressed to employers including Playtech and Sky.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UK applicants: GCSE Mathematics grade C/4, plus 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of the equivalent of 2 full A-levels. IB: 29 points in the IB Diploma or 112 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of 2 Higher Level subjects; the Maths requirement can be met with 2 in Standard level Maths, 2 in Higher level Maths or 4 in IB Middle Years Maths. Essex accepts A-levels, AAQs, BTECs, Access to HE Diploma, T-levels and most other qualifications that hold UCAS tariff points; acceptability of some non-A-level qualifications such as BTECs may depend on the subject studied and units taken. Contextual offer (UK-resident applicants from underrepresented groups): GCSE Mathematics C/4 plus 96 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels. International applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each component, or a specified score in an equivalent accepted test; a pre-sessional English pathway is available for those who do not meet the IELTS requirement. Applications are made through UCAS (Essex institution code E70).

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year. Home/UK tuition fee per year; fees increase for each academic year of study. Placement year: 20% of the standard tuition fee for that year; full year abroad: 15%. Source

International applicants: GBP 26,325 a year. International tuition fee per year; fees increase for each academic year of study. Placement year: 20% of the standard tuition fee for that year; full year abroad: 15%. Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 3 years (4 years with an optional placement or study abroad year)

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