MSc Computer Games Technology

Program Overview

MSc Computer Games Technology

Course Overview

Join our MSc Computer Games Technology and gain a globally reputable qualification which will make you highly desirable to employers. Our graduates have gone on to work with the world’s most recognisable games companies, including Ubisoft, Sony, EA, and Rockstar North. Others have set up successful games companies of their own.

Designed and maintained in close association with games companies

It’s an ideal route if you wish to expand and focus your existing programming skills for the development of computer games. Designed and maintained in close association with games companies, the MSc Computer Games Technology course will provide you with access to a range of state-of-the-art facilities.

During your studies, you’ll benefit from being part of a community of likeminded individuals within our School of Design and Informatics.

With strong industry links and the opportunity to work on real team projects, you’ll benefit from developing the skills and expertise essential to computer games companies, as well as building your own network of contacts in this exciting industry.

And, of course, you’ll be studying your Masters in the city of Dundee – identified as a key hub of games-making activity in the UK.

Entry Requirements

UK Entry

A good honours degree (minimum of 2:2) or equivalent in computing, including a good knowledge of object-oriented programming and mathematics.

International Entry

We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants from across the world. Please select the country of your qualification from the searchable list below to view entry requirements. If you have different qualifications to those listed, please contact us.

Academic Requirements

Applicants who do not cover the appropriate subjects during their degree will be considered if they have relevant industry experience.

English Language Requirements

All courses at Abertay University are taught in English. If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate that you meet our English language requirements.

How the Course Works

The programme is designed around five themes:

Games Production and Design

Uses the games development template as the basis for games design, development and production. This theme is strongly grounded in the market reality of games publishing.

Games Programming

Develops the core programming competence of students using DirectX and console hardware programming.

Professional Knowledge

Provides the underpinning mathematical and games industry knowledge required to be a professional in the computer games field.

Programming Specialism

Provides an opportunity to develop and evaluate the techniques used to implement network computer games and the AI techniques used in games.

Research

Provides an opportunity to explore a personal research topic related to computer games technology.

Accreditation

This degree has been accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT. Accreditation is a mark of assurance that the degree meets the standards set by BCS. An accredited degree entitles you to professional membership of BCS, which is an important part of the criteria for achieving Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status through the Institute. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.

Partnerships

Scotland's first Adobe Creative Campus

All Abertay students have access to Adobe Express, empowering you to enhance digital skills with industry-leading tools.

Modules (Subject to change)

Year 1

Programming For Games (CMP502)

Introduction to the techniques and underpinning mathematics for developing games and real-time graphics applications with a modern API.

Applied Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence (MAT501)

Covers the basic mathematics necessary for graphics and introduces you to Artificial Intelligence (AI), specifically in computer games. The module will provide you with the mathematical techniques involved in realistic computer graphics, and a critical understanding of the basic features used to implement AI, in a computer game or entertainment product.

Network Game Development (CMP501)

A critical understanding of the principles of computer networks as they are applied to the development of various types of networked computer games. You will develop and evaluate the techniques used to implement networked computer games with a particular emphasis on real-time, fast action games.

Research Methods (2) (GRS501)

An introduction to research methods and statistical analysis for postgraduate students. Combines theoretical, historical and statistical concepts with hands-on practical lab sessions using both qualitative and quantitative techniques to put theory into practice.

Game Design and Development (DES502)

An opportunity for you to operate at a professional level of games development and show your ability to critically review and consolidate your working practices within a team environment. This module requires you to be part of a team that apply their skills in the critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of a professionally aligned video game. This will include being actively involved in the concept development and game design, as well as taking a central technical role in its development.

Advanced Procedural Methods (CMP505)

An understanding of the various techniques used to generate procedural content in games, tools and common media editing packages to a cutting-edge standard. You are also taught further graphics, games and general programming techniques and practices.

Masters Project (CMP504)

Select, plan, conduct and write up a research-based investigation for the Masters Project. The project will include the selection of appropriate research and experimental methods, the collection and analysis of data/information and the evaluation and communication of findings. The result is a solution appropriate to the project aims and a dissertation.

Fees & Funding

The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you depends on factors such as your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying.

Scholarships

The scholarships below are open to all international students and those applying from England, Wales and Northern Ireland with a 2.1 or above for a postgraduate course.

Abertay Postgraduate Taught rUK Scholarship

This £1,000 award is open to all prospective new postgraduate students from England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

International Postgraduate Abertay Scholarships

This £3,000 award is open to all prospective new international postgraduate students at Abertay University.

Career Opportunities

Employment opportunities exist in a variety of sectors including computer games development, graphics and visualisation, multimedia and education.

Typical job titles include games programmer, graphics programmer, and AI programmer. Opportunities also exist for graduates to become self-employed, freelance contractors or to start their own games development business.