Bachelor of Science Computer Games Development
Program Overview
Bachelor of Science Computer Games Development
Overview
The Bachelor of Science Computer Games Development is a four-year undergraduate program that equips students with the skills and knowledge to develop computer games and related software systems. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in computer science, software engineering, and game development.
Key Information
- NFQ Level: 8
- Award: Honours Bachelor Degree
- Entry Route: Computer Science Common Entry (LM121)
- Duration: 4 years
- Fees: Vary depending on student status (EU, non-EU, etc.)
- Subject Area: Engineering
- Course Director: Associate Professor Gavin Wade
Why Study Computer Games Development at UL?
The Computer Games Industry is a rapidly growing field, currently outselling the film industry worldwide. This program offers students the opportunity to develop their skills in computer games programming and design, providing a comprehensive education in software development, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, and game design.
Program Structure
The program is structured over four years, with the first year focusing on foundational topics in computer science and software development. In subsequent years, students delve deeper into game development, including topics such as computer graphics, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. The third year includes an eight-month cooperative education placement, providing students with hands-on industry experience. The final year involves advanced topics in game development and a significant independent project.
Year 1 Modules
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| CS4012: Representation and Modelling | CS4043: Games Modelling Design |
| CS4141: Introduction to Programming | CS4222: Software Development |
| CS4221: Foundations of Computer Science 1 | CS4182: Foundations of Computer Science 2 |
| ET4011: Fundamentals of Computer Organisation | ET4162: Computing System Organisation |
| MS4111: Discrete Mathematics | MA4402: Computer Maths 2 |
Year 2 Modules
| Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
|---|---|
| CS4013: Object Oriented Development | CS4006: Intelligent Systems |
| CS4023: Operating Systems | CS4076: Event Driven Programming |
| CS4416: Database Systems | CS4115: Data Structures and Algorithms |
| CS4004: Software Testing and Inspection | CS4815: Computer Graphics |
| CS4096: Artificial Intelligence for Games | MA4413: Statistics for Computing |
Year 3 Modules
- Semester 5:
- Digital Modelling and Animation (CS4151)
- Virtual and Augmented Reality Design (CS4071)
- Mobile Application Development (CS4084)
- Games for Global Markets (CS4093)
- Machine Learning: Methods and Applications (CS4106)
- Semester 6: Cooperative Education
Year 4 Modules
| Semester 7 | Semester 8 |
|---|---|
| CS4207: Advanced Programming Concepts and Practices | CS4198: Computer Games Development Project 2 |
| CS4085: Computer Graphics II: Tools and Techniques | CS4135: Software Architectures |
| CS4928: Theory and Practice of Software Design | CS4067: Writing Games Analysis |
| CS4287: Neural Computing | CS4168: Data Mining |
| CS4197: Computer Games Development Project 1 |
Entry Requirements
Additional considerations:
- Please refer to the entry requirements for LM121 - Computer Science (Common Entry)
- Non-EU Entry Requirements: Please choose where you are applying from and refer to the specific requirements.
How to Apply
- Ireland: Irish students must apply to UL via the CAO.
- The UK: Students who have completed their A-Levels can apply to UL via the CAO.
- The EU: EU Students can apply to UL via the CAO.
- Non-EU country: If you are outside of the EU, you can apply for this degree directly to UL.
Fees and Funding
Student course fees are broken into three components: Student contribution, Student Levy, and Tuition Fees. The fees vary depending on the student's status (EU, non-EU, etc.). Scholarships are available for this course, including the BD Science and Engineering Undergraduate Scholarship, Brindle Foundation and Fidelis Partnership Scholarships, and others.
Employability Skills
Graduates of this program develop a range of skills, including:
- Understanding the fundamentals of software for computer graphics
- Working in teams and liaising with other professionals
- Working creatively and problem-solving
- Communicating (written and verbal)
- Developing skills in cinematography and story writing
- Cultural awareness: developing games appropriate to international markets
- Technical ability and solid skills in software development
Further Study Options
Graduates can pursue further study in areas such as:
- MEng in Information and Network Security
- MSc in Software Engineering
- MA in Journalism, Sport
- MA Technical Communication and eLearning
- MA English
- Grad Dip/MA in Public Administration
- MA Creative Writing
Job Titles for Graduates
- Graduate Programme Intern
- IT Technician
- Junior IT Consultant
- Junior Software Engineer
- Marketing Executive
- Mission Scripter
- Programming Engineer
- QA Engineer
- Research Assistant
- Service Engineer
- Social Localisation Programmer
- Software Developer
- Software Engineer
- Software Programmer
- Software QA Tester
- System Document Author
- Systems Software Engineer
- Systems Technician
- Technical Support
- Technology Analyst (Consulting Department)
Graduate Profile
Ryan Kerswill, a graduate of the program, is currently employed as a Junior Network Programmer with Ubisoft in Montpellier, France. He emphasizes the relevance of the course to his current role and the value of the internship experience in securing his job.
Student Profile
Daniel Keohane, a student in the program, enjoys the course for its combination of software engineering and games development. He participated in programming competitions and completed a Co-op work placement at DemonWare in Dublin, working on the Call of Duty team. This experience has been invaluable in developing his skills and enhancing his employability.