Game Development (Programming) MSc
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
This MSc in Game Development (Programming) focuses on programming skills essential for game development. Students create and develop computer games individually and as part of a team, utilizing industry-standard tools and techniques. The program emphasizes portfolio development and career readiness, preparing students for professional roles in the games and media industries. Students benefit from a strong industry focus, guest speakers, and access to a dedicated games lab equipped with the latest technology.
Program Outline
This MSc in Game Development (Programming) focuses on the programming skills essential for game development. Students will create and develop computer games both individually and as part of a team. The program emphasizes industry-standard tools and techniques, simulating a professional collaborative environment. Students will also develop prototypes utilizing emerging technologies like computer vision and stereoscopy, preparing them for professional roles through portfolio development and career readiness.
- Digital Studio Practice: Students work in a multidisciplinary group, collaborating on digital media production projects that align with industry needs and research. This module emphasizes developing a professional online profile and portfolio.
- 3D Game Programming: Students gain skills to create professional-quality 3D games using game libraries. The module delves into mathematics, physics, and graphics techniques, enabling students to implement realistic game elements.
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence: This module introduces machine learning and pattern recognition concepts and methods.
- Digital Media Final Project: This capstone project allows students to synthesize knowledge gained in previous modules and apply their skills to a substantial design-related problem. Students create a practical solution, demonstrating research skills and a critical understanding of digital media practices.
- Professional Placement: (Optional) This 120-credit module offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in a relevant work environment.
Assessment:
Assessment typically comprises coursework (e.g. essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios), practical elements (e.g. presentations, performance), and exams.
Teaching:
The program utilizes a blend of scheduled learning and teaching sessions, including lectures, workshops, tutorials, and seminars, alongside independent study. The university provides a range of resources, including online materials, library access, and the CANVAS virtual learning platform, to support independent learning.
- Dr. Darrel Greenhill (Course Director)
- Professor Vasilis Argyriou
- Professor Vesna Brujic-Okretic
- Dr. Jarek Francik
- Professor Dimitrios Makris
Careers:
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of computing careers in the games and media industries, including:
- Game Programmer
- AI Programmer
- VR Game Developer
- VR Developer
- Software Engineer Students can participate in Game Jams and Hackathons. Students have access to a dedicated games lab equipped with Sony PlayStation 5 development consoles, the latest software (Unreal Engine 5, Unity, Visual Studio), high-tech gaming PCs, and VR and AR equipment. Kingston University offers a range of postgraduate scholarships, including: Alumni discounts are also available.
Home 2025/26 MSc full time £11,400 MSc part time £6,270 International 2025/26 MSc full time £17,600 MSc part time £9,680 Home 2024/25 MSc full time £10,900 MSc part time £5,995 International 2024/25 MSc full time £16,900 MSc part time £9,295
Entry Requirements:
- A 2:2 or above honours degree in information technology, computer science, mathematics, physics or the academic equivalent.
- All applicants must be able to demonstrate, either through qualifications or portfolio of works, a solid understanding of digital media.
- Exceptionally, applicants may have no first degree but more than five years working in the field and/or a portfolio of works. Experience in digital media or the games industry is particularly valuable.
- For this course you must pass IELTS academic test in English with an overall score of 6.5, with no element below 6.0, or meet the scores listed on the alternative online tests.
