Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
MSc Games Development (Programming)
Introduction
Take your computer game development skills to the next level. Gain experience in multi-disciplinary working in our specialist studios and create an advanced portfolio.
Course Options
- 12 months full-time
- 24 months part-time
Key Facts
- STUDY OPTIONS: 12 months full-time
- START DATES: September
- LOCATION: Cambridge
- FEES:
- £9,800 UK students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)
- £19,500 International students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)
Student Work
- Hexagonal map generator - Jack Silva, 2024
- Island Guardian - MA/MSc group project, 2024
Teaching and Assessment
- Games Programming
- Collaborative Games Development 1
- Collaborative Games Development 2
- Games Data, Analytics and Research (30 credits)
- Major Project for Games (Programming)
Entry Requirements
- A good honours degree (or equivalent), normally in a related subject.
- Applicants with professional experience are also encouraged to apply.
- Applicants should have experience with object orientated programming, preferably in C#, C++ or Java.
- If English is not your first language you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification, as recognised by Anglia Ruskin University.
Fees and Paying for University
- Tuition fees for UK students (2025/26): £9,800
- Tuition fees for international students (2025/26): £19,500
- ARU graduates may be eligible for an Alumni Scholarship and get a 20% fee discount.
Facilities and Showcase
- Industry-standard facilities
- Futures Lab and workshop equipment
- Outstanding student support
Accreditation
- TIGA accredited
Lecturers
- Lee Cheng
- Ian Brown
- Barış Işıkgüner
Careers
- Game developer
- Marketing
- Teaching
- General technology
- Serious games development (rehabilitation, education, training, defence, science, health, city planning, engineering)
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The MSc Computer Games Development (Computing) program at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is designed to equip students with advanced skills and knowledge in computer game development. The program emphasizes multi-disciplinary collaboration, providing students with opportunities to work alongside students in the MA Computer Games Development (Art) program.
Objectives:
- Enhance students' existing computer game development skills.
- Develop expertise in games programming, focusing on a specific area of interest.
- Provide opportunities for students to create innovative games, considering target platforms, audience, and reward strategies.
- Foster an understanding of professional, legal, and ethical issues in game design.
Description:
The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Students engage in hands-on projects, attend industry talks and conferences, and participate in game jams to gain a well-rounded understanding of the game development process. The program also includes a Major Project, where students conduct independent research and develop an innovative game.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Game Development Theory
- Game Design Process
- Game Programming
- 3D Modeling and Animation
- Game Testing and Evaluation
- Professional and Ethical Issues in Game Development
Program Structure:
The program is offered full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months.
Course Schedule:
- Full-time: Mondays (1 hour online session), Tuesdays (9 am - 12 pm, 1 pm - 4 pm)
Modules:
- Core Modules:
- Games Programming
- Portfolio (Computer Games Art)
- Games Development 1
- Games Development 2
- Research Methods
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Practical Projects
- Faculty:
- Dr. Cenk Köknar (Course Leader)
- Unique Approaches:
- Emphasis on multi-disciplinary collaboration between computer science and art students.
- Industry-led talks and portfolio reviews.
- Access to high-end computer graphics facilities, including motion capture equipment and 3D modeling software.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths:
- Game Developer
- Game Programmer
- Game Designer
- Game Tester
- Graphics Programmer
- User Interface Designer
- Opportunities:
- Employment with major game development companies, including Frontier Developments and Jagex.
- Opportunities in "serious" game development for applications in rehabilitation, education, and healthcare.
- Outcomes:
- Graduates are highly sought after due to the TIGA accreditation, which is recognized by the UK games industry.
- Graduates are equipped with the skills and portfolio necessary to pursue successful careers in game development.
Tuition Fees and Payment Information:
Tuition fees for UK students (2024/25)
£9,300 UK students starting 2024/25 (full-time, per year) ARU graduates may be eligible for an Alumni Scholarship and get a 20% fee discount. Fees are payable upfront, in full or in instalments, but there's no need to pay until you've accepted an offer to study with us. Find out more about paying your fees.
Tuition fees for international students (2024/25)
£18,600 International students starting 2024/25 (full-time, per year) Tuition fees for international students (2024/25) £18,600 International students starting 2024/25 (full-time, per year) You can pay your fees upfront, in full or in two instalments. We will ask for a deposit of £4,000 or a sponsorship letter Find out about paying your fees. For postgraduate courses, international ARU graduates are automatically considered for an International Alumni Scholarship, worth £3,000 off first-year fees.
Overview:
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is a global university with students from 185 countries. It is known for its innovative and entrepreneurial approach to education and research. ARU has been recognized as the Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023 and has received a Gold award for the quality of its education in the Teaching Excellence Framework.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The context mentions that ARU is committed to creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for students, staff, and communities. It also highlights the university's focus on providing outstanding facilities and opportunities for student growth.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Ambition:
ARU is academically ambitious for its students and strives to provide high-quality education.Excellence:
ARU is ranked in the top 15% of universities in the UK for graduate employment and has been recognized for its excellence in education, social work, and sports science.Collaboration:
ARU fosters collaboration between students, businesses, and partners, and its courses are recognized by industry and professionally accredited.Impact:
ARU conducts impactful research that addresses pressing issues and makes a difference in the community.Enterprise:
ARU encourages entrepreneurship and provides mentorship, support, and start-up funding through the Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy.Enthusiasm:
ARU's can-do attitude and infectious enthusiasm set it apart from other universities.Academic Programs:
The context mentions that ARU offers a wide range of courses, including undergraduate, postgraduate, postgraduate research, college courses, apprenticeships, short courses, and distance learning programs. It also highlights the university's commitment to providing career-ready graduates.
Other:
The context mentions that ARU has campuses in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough, and Writtle. It also highlights the university's commitment to sustainability, equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Entry Requirements:
- A good honours degree (or equivalent), normally in a related subject. Applicants with professional experience are also encouraged to apply. Applicants should have experience with object orientated programming, preferably in C#, C++ or Java.
- If English is not your first language you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 ( Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification, as recognised by Anglia Ruskin University.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS 6.5 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification, as recognised by Anglia Ruskin University.