Program Overview

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BSc (Hons) Games Computing with Virtual and Augmented Reality

The BSc (Hons) Games Computing with Virtual and Augmented Reality programme is designed for students wishing to combine their study of Games Computing with a focus on the game technologies of the future. The programme aims to prepare students to contribute to the growing development and interest in extended reality, with a focus on interaction, immersiveness, and entertainment.

Key Information

• Campus: Brayford Pool
• Typical Offer: See More
• Duration: 3 years
• UCAS Code: G406

Course Overview

Our BSc (Hons) Games Computing with Virtual and Augmented Reality programme is designed for students wishing to combine their study of Games Computing with a focus on the game technologies of the future. The programme aims to prepare students to contribute to the growing development and interest in extended reality, with a focus on interaction, immersiveness, and entertainment. By combining core computer science and game development skills with an additional focus on extended reality, the course aims to create developers who are equipped to address the increasing demand for extended reality as a platform for game technologies.

Why Choose Lincoln

• Focus on cutting-edge topics
• Access to a range of specialist equipment
• A range of specialist optional modules
• Take part in games workshops and game jams
• Optional placement year
• Undertake individual projects on topics of interest

How You Study

In the first year, students have the opportunity to study the fundamental areas of computer science and games development. This includes programming fundamentals, maths for computing, and games development.

In the second year, there is in-depth study expected in areas of games computing, such as advanced programming, concept development, user experience design, and artificial intelligence, alongside a focus on game development for virtual and augmented reality.

As well as completing a games development project in the third year, students can choose from a range of specialist optional modules, including Physics Simulation, Parallel Programming; Autonomous Mobile Robotics; Image Processing; and Cross-Platform Development.

Modules

First Year

• Algorithms and Data Structures
• Foundations of Programming
• Game Design
• Game Studies
• Introduction to Software Engineering
• Professional Development

Module Overview

This module aims to equip students with an understanding of time and space efficiency, enabling them to select appropriate algorithms for the programming problems they are presented with. Students will be introduced to relevant theoretical concepts around algorithms and data structures in lectures, together with practical experience of implementing them in the workshops.

Module Overview

This module introduces students to software constructs and the development of programs using a high-level programming language. Students will learn about standard programming practices and develop software using the object-oriented programming paradigm.

Module Overview

This module explores the theoretical underpinning of the games design process, focusing on how design techniques can be employed to address a design brief or specific problem domain. Students can develop a first-hand understanding of how games concepts can be developed through a process of exploratory ideation.

Module Overview

This module is designed to provide grounding and context to the Games Computing programme, encompassing historical, societal, aesthetic, and ethical aspects of games as cultural artefacts.

Module Overview

This module will outline the main components of the software design and development process that ensure software is fit for purpose and of sufficient quality. Students will develop their practical understanding and appreciation of frameworks for software development processes using case studies and practical implementations.

Module Overview

In industry, computer scientists and software developers work in teams to create solutions to a variety of different problems. This module aims to introduce the art of problem solving, teamwork, and the industry employment process to help equip students with the skillsets required for an industry setting.

Second Year

• Artificial Intelligence
• Concept Development
• Full Stack Development
• Game Development for Virtual and Augmented Reality
• Game Programming
• Team Software Engineering

Module Overview

The module aims to provide a modern introduction to the concepts of symbolic artificial intelligence, set in the context of intelligent agents.

Module Overview

This module aims to develop students' applied design problem- solving and practical implementation skills. The module will be delivered over a semester.

Module Overview

This module will explore the 'full stack' of web application technologies. You will have the opportunity to learn how to design and develop both the frontend and backend of modern web applications.

Module Overview

This module focuses on how to design and develop games for contemporary Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) platforms. The module will underpin practical development work with theoretical concepts of user experience in VR/AR platforms.

Module Overview

This module introduces second year students to the fundamentals, theories, and techniques of games programming. It is designed to give students a grounding in the development of video games, predominantly targeting PC systems.

Module Overview

The purpose of this module is to provide students with the experience of working as part of a team within a simulated commercial setting. Students will go through the key phases of software development from ideation through to development, testing, delivery, and publishing.

Third Year

• Graphics
• Physics Simulation
• Project
• XR Game Studio
• Autonomous Mobile Robotics (Option)
• Cyber Security (Option)
• Image Processing (Option)
• Machine Learning (Option)
• Mobile Application Development (Option)
• Parallel Programming (Option)

Module Overview

This module introduces the student to the theory, principles, methods, and techniques of 3D computer graphics. The specialised mathematical underpinnings are explored along with their practical application in algorithms commonly used in videogame development.

Module Overview

Realistic physics simulation is a key component for many modern technologies including computer games, video animation, medical imaging, robotics, etc.

Module Overview

This module offers students the chance to demonstrate their ability to work independently on a significant, in-depth project requiring the coherent and critical application of computer science theory and skills.

Module Overview

This module aims to emulate a studio-based working environment in a classroom setting: students will collaborate in small teams to design, develop, and evaluate a VR game experience over a period of one semester.

Module Overview

The module aims to introduce the main concepts of Autonomous Mobile Robotics, providing an understanding of the range of processing components required to build physically embodied robotic systems.

How You Are Assessed

The programme is assessed through a variety of means, including in-class tests, coursework, projects, and examinations. The majority of assessments are coursework-based, reflecting the practical and applied nature of games computing science.

Placements

Full-time students have the option of a year-long professional practice placement, which can be overseas, after the second year, providing real-world experience.

Special Features

Students have the opportunity to be part of a vibrant community of active researchers and take part in extracurricular activities such as performance and games workshops, game jams, and national competitions.

Entry Requirements

United Kingdom

104 to 112 UCAS Tariff points. This must be achieved from a minimum of 2 A Levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications: If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.

Fees and Scholarships

A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages. For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs.

What Can I Do with a Games Computing Degree?

Our Games Computing programmes aim to equip graduates with the skills necessary for a technical career. Graduates can work across the games industry as developers, tools programmers, artificial intelligence programmers, level designers, mission scripters, games testers, and in many other roles in the wider IT industry.