BSc Games Programming
About this course
BSc (Hons) in Games Programming, a games design degree focusing on technical software development for interactive entertainment. Core topics include Programming, Data Analysis, Mathematical Modelling, Research Methods, and Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning. The curriculum is delivered over three years of full-time study, with optional pathways including a four-year full-time foundation route and a four-year part-time option. The first year establishes core competencies through modules such as Fundamentals of Programming, Programming 2D Computer Games, Database Design for Computer Games, and Computer Games Architecture and Optimisation. The second year advances technical ability via Native Programming and Compilation, Mathematics For Computer Games, and Programming 3D Computer Games. In the final year, students tackle complex systems through AI for Computer Games, Programming Multiplayer Computer Games, Simulation and Dynamics, and 3D Graphics Programming for Computer Games. The programme concludes with an independent Games Dissertation.
Written by AI from the university's course page and module list. It can get details wrong, so check the official course page before you rely on it.
Entry requirements
A typical offer for this course would be: BCC at A-Level or, DMM at BTEC/Cambridge Technical or, Pass (C and above) at T Level Further Information: You will be expected to have achieved GCSE Mathematics (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above. The University of Northampton welcomes international applicants and applications from students with a range of non-traditional educational or professional qualifications. We welcome applications from students with a mix of A levels and BTEC/Cambridge Technical qualifications. Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) Entry Requirements: The University of Northampton now offers on a range of our courses an alternative route to study; the integrated foundation year (IFY). Admission to this foundation course is normally: DEE at A Level or, MPP at BTEC or, Pass (D or E) at T Level However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.
What students say
Based on about 8 final-year students who answered (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Teaching on my course: 55%
- Learning opportunities: 57%
- Assessment and feedback: 64%
- Academic support: 75%
- Organisation and management: 55%
- Learning resources: 80%
- Student voice: 47%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Continued on course: 90%
- Left higher education: 15%
What graduates do next
Based on about 9 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 80%
- Unemployed: 20%
Most common jobs
- Information Technology Professionals: 20%
- Elementary occupations: 20%
- Science, engineering and technology associate professionals: 20%
- Skilled trades occupations: 10%
- Business and public service associate professionals: 10%
- Find their work meaningful: 50%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 50%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 40%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 45 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North West: 5%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 10%
- East Midlands: 25%
- West Midlands: 15%
- East of England: 15%
- London: 20%
- South East: 5%
Who gets in
Based on about 20 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- A levels: 90%
- Access course: 5%
- Other HE qualification: 5%
Accreditation & quality ratings
TEF 2023 (whole university): Silver overall, Silver for student experience, Silver for student outcomes.
Modules
- Professional and Academic Skills for University Study
- Applied Learning Project
- Foundations in Technology
- Group Game Project: Fundamentals
- Programming 2D Computer Games
- Fundamentals of Programming
- Programming for Game Engines
- Database Design for Computer Games
- Computer Games Architecture and Optimisation
- Indie Games Development
- Native Programming and Compilation
- Group Game Project: Advanced
- Mathematics For Computer Games
- 2D Graphics Programming for Computer Games
- Programming 3D Computer Games
- Simulation and Dynamics
- Group Game Project: Industry Practice
- AI for Computer Games
- 3D Graphics Programming for Computer Games
- Programming Multiplayer Computer Games
- Games Dissertation
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of BSc Games Programming at University of Northampton earn?
The median salary is £24,000 after 15 months, £23,000 after 3 years, £29,000 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £23,000 and £36,000. The £29,000 median after five years is £1,500 more than the UK median for Computer games and animation.
What do graduates of BSc Games Programming at University of Northampton do next?
80% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2022-23).
Are students happy with the teaching on BSc Games Programming at University of Northampton?
55% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2024-25.
What grades do I need for BSc Games Programming at University of Northampton?
The typical offer is BCC at A level. The average entrant had 101 UCAS points.
How many students continue on BSc Games Programming at University of Northampton?
90% of students continued into their second year, and 15% left higher education.