STUDY

Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Games Development

Games controller
Course options: Professional Placement
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: GW42
Start date: September 2026
Duration: Three/four years full-time, four and a half to nine years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)
Course options: Professional Placement
Institution code: S82
UCAS code: GW42
Start date: September 2026
Duration: Three/four years full-time, four and a half to nine years part-time
Location: Ipswich
Typical Offer: 112 UCAS tariff points (or above), BBC (A-Level), DMM (BTEC), Merit (T Level)

Overview

Embark on an unparalleled Games Studio experience that sets you apart.

Our Games Development degree offers an immersive journey like no other. From day one, you'll dive into a fully integrated games studio environment, putting your skills to work on actual games. Industry leaders, senior peers, and qualified mentors provide constant guidance, enriching your voyage. 

Unveil your potential through the Games Development Pathway system as you shape your games studio project. Immerse yourself in diverse, industry career paths and receive mentorship to pinpoint your specialisation. Enhance your degree by showcasing your creations in the prestigious UK Games Funded Tranzfuser competition and joining our illustrious Games Hub, home to consistent finalists since 2016. Experience the grandeur of Game Anglia, the largest games festival in the East of England and present your projects at the indie development zone, captivating industry professionals and earning recognition. 

Delve into the forefront of gaming innovation.

Our curriculum blends cutting-edge industry practices with ground-breaking academic research. Unlike other UK institutions, we fuse games design with psychology and neuroscientific insights, creating a well-rounded foundation. Your journey to become a successful games developer encompasses these vital perspectives, equipping you for the evolving industry landscape. Witness the evolution of our award-winning student-made games, crafted within a professional studio environment under expert mentorship. Our alumni are employed by leading industry giants, contributing to games you've enjoyed like Hogwarts Legacy, Watch Dogs 2, Red Dead Redemption 2, Horizon Zero Dawn, Killzone Mercenary, Ghost Recon Wildlands, and more. 

Chart your path to success from day one.

Gain direct exposure to industry giants like Bandai Namco and Ubisoft. Feed an entrepreneurial spirit through our Games Hub, guiding you in taking games to market and even funding your ventures through student competitions. Elevate your projects using specialised equipment like eye-tracking and VR headsets. Forge a solid career foundation through placements and our Professional Practice module. Leverage the expertise of our academic team and The Ipswich Games Hub to secure Tranzfuser funding for your game. Our thriving student game jam community, exemplified by the annual Global Game Jam, challenges you to create a game in 48 hours, pushing your creative boundaries. 

Choose your specialisation 

There are two core pathways offered as part of BSc (Hons) Games Development focus on Design and Programming. In the first year, you will study three core modules and three modules that you have chosen from the pathway system. On the design pathway, you will become architects of engaging and emotive experiences reflecting the fundamental need for you to understand your audience intimately, designing for desirable emotions, and for the anticipation of those desirable emotions.

As a first year student, you will be introduced to a range of duties performed by game designers and be acquainted with the principles and tools to develop your own games. By the end of your first year, you will have gained a deep understanding of your players and what they want, in addition to unlocking the ability to trigger specific emotions in those players. We'll work in C++ and C# to ensure you are learning industry-standard languages and prepare you for the work you will undertake in the second year of study.

In your second year on the design pathway, you will augment your knowledge by studying the advanced behavioural psychological techniques that are applied to games. Students on the programming pathway take a deeper dive into writing code for games. You will look at graphics programming with OpenGL, AI techniques core to building immersive experiences, alongside an intensive module that has you writing your own 2D game engine, pulling together elements from the other modules you have worked through in your studies. 

In your final year, you are almost ready to take the game development scene by storm and you will need a professional online presence and CV. We have first-hand experience of industry recruitment and with our support you will stand out from the crowd.

As voted for by students, Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025, winner University of the Year.

The University of Suffolk has an international profile while being committed to our region. We are proudly modern and innovative and we believe in transformative education. We are on the rise with a focus on student satisfaction, graduate prospects, spending on academic services and student facilities.

1st

for Student Support

(Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025)
4th

for Computer Gaming

(Daily Mail Guide 2026)
6th

in England and Wales for social inclusion

(Times Good University Guide 2026)

Course Modules

Our undergraduate programmes are delivered as 'block and blend', more information can be found on Why Suffolk? You can also watch our Block and Blend video.

The BSc (Hons) Games Development offers two core pathways: Design and Programming.

In the first and second year, you'll study core modules and choose from the pathway system. Design focuses on creating engaging experiences by understanding players' emotions and designing for them. Programming delves into code for games, covering graphics, AI, and even creating a 2D game engine.

In the final year, you'll prepare for the industry with a strong online presence and CV, gaining a competitive edge.

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.    

Develop a game in teams with second year students following the development process used by professional game studios. Your senior team members will have prototyped the game’s core loop extensively prior to this module, allowing you to contribute to a playable and refined game experience. You’ll adopt an agile workflow and learn foundational game production skills like communication, quality assurance playtesting, and working with version control. This module provides essential real-world experience of game creation, challenging you to work effectively together towards a common goal.

Design can be considered as ‘the search for the best possible solution’. Throughout this module, students are introduced to the ubiquitous concepts that pervade many fundamental aspects of game design. These concepts are considered with reference to the player’s interactive experience and contextually, in conjunction with associated tools, as a part of the iterative development process.

The module provides you with an introduction to a range of game development tools including; asset creation, game engines and development environments. You will be required to design and develop a small number of games, demonstrating their understanding of the tools covered.

Build a solid understanding of fundamental programming techniques, mathematics and algorithms through a series of games focussed practical tasks that put the theory and techniques into context. You will learn how to structure small scale programming projects and make use of best practices such as version control.

Learn how to design intuitive, accessible and inclusive game experiences by analysing modern games and designing your own. You’ll get hands-on with key topics like onboarding (how to teach players without boring them), accessibility fundamentals (making sure your game works for as many players as possible), and inclusive design principles so players feel seen and represented in your game worlds. You’ll also explore how your own design choices influence how players think, feel and engage with the world. Whether it’s UI clarity or just-in-time gameplay teaching, you’ll develop practical skills that make your games more satisfying and enjoyable to play.

Learn how to develop AI systems for believable behaviours, you will implement a range of key technologies and algorithms, including behaviour trees, utility systems and path finding. You’ll get to see how these can be used together by building them into a small game framework.

You will be introduced to systems design and the structural forms associated with sustainable fun, progression and replayability with reference to a cross section of genres and experiential goals. You will assemble and structure their designs into coherent game loops and will collate their design decisions into accessible game design documents.

The module provides you with an in-depth view into the architecture of game engines and their implementations. You will construct their own basic game engine, implementing core components such as rendering, audio, scripting and input.

Develop and manage a game in teams with first year students using development processes used by professional game studios. As senior members of the team, you are executing a creative vision that you will have prototyped prior to the game’s production. You’ll follow an agile workflow and develop practical skills in project management, from writing agendas and meeting minutes to risk exposure and task tracking. You’ll also develop mentorship skills by coaching and guiding first year students as part of a collaborative team structure. Completion of the module will prepare you for entry level production roles by building confidence in your project management skills.

Narrative cues provide access to a wealth of ubiquitous experiential rewards which typically reside beyond the remit of ‘fun’. Throughout this module, you are introduced to the design work which informs the development of immersive worlds and identifiable characters. You are further introduced to the concept of, and components associated with, structural forms.

The module introduces you to the fundamental algorithms, theory, principles methods and techniques of 2D and 3D computer graphics. The mathematical underpinnings are covered in further detail from the level 4 Math for Software Development module. You will develop skills in implementing and developing computer graphic applications with C++ and standard graphics libraries (such as OpenGL) within a games programming context. The shader pipeline is also introduced, with you producing shader programs for use in your graphics applications.

Learn how to build level blockouts for games like Helldivers 2 and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows using key level design principles from visual language (how your level communicates interactivity, access etc) to pacing (the level’s tempo, rhythm and flow). You’ll also learn how to create motivational gameplay in recognition of an intended playstyle by building on your knowledge of gameplay scripting with topics such as events, interfaces, and composition. You’ll obtain a greater understanding of how players interact with game levels and systems, and how you can utilise them to create unique gameplay experiences. By the end of this module, you will be able to build believable play spaces and prototypes so that you can rapidly iterate and refine gameplay over time.

Within this module you are required to consolidate your existing game design and development skills into a single, independent piece of practical work that will be used on your portfolios to gain employment post graduation.

The Advanced Programming module is designed to fill the gap between the knowledge you have acquired from your other modules and the knowledge you will need in industry by providing seminars and activities on a range of small but important programming related topics. These sessions may cover such topics like: Basic multithreading and synchronisation, File I/O, Sockets Client/server, Event driven programming, Use of other windowing APIs., Design patterns. 

A degree final project should represent the culmination of your ability to undertake extended self-directed study in pursuit of an honours award. As a graduate student it is absolutely crucial to have a significant piece of work that represents the specialist skills developed on the course that can be presented in a portfolio to potential employers. This module offers the opportunity for this work to be produced within the context of an autonomous, academically rigorous project.

In this module, you will collaborate in small teams to build single, high-quality game. The game will be developed within an agile led development structure, drawing on experience they have gained in other modules to plan and control their progress.

Working with industry partners, you will have the opportunity to engage with a professional brief and dip your toes into the world of professional game development.

Course Modules

The BSc (Hons) Games Development offers two core pathways: Design and Programming.

In the first and second year, you'll study core modules and choose from the pathway system. Design focuses on creating engaging experiences by understanding players' emotions and designing for them. Programming delves into code for games, covering graphics, AI, and even creating a 2D game engine.

In the final year, you'll prepare for the industry with a strong online presence and CV, gaining a competitive edge.

Downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.  

Develop a game in teams with second year students following the development process used by professional game studios. Your senior team members will have prototyped the game’s core loop extensively prior to this module, allowing you to contribute to a playable and refined game experience. You’ll adopt an agile workflow and learn foundational game production skills like communication, quality assurance playtesting, and working with version control. This module provides essential real-world experience of game creation, challenging you to work effectively together towards a common goal.

Design can be considered as ‘the search for the best possible solution’. Throughout this module, students are introduced to the ubiquitous concepts that pervade many fundamental aspects of game design. These concepts are considered with reference to the player’s interactive experience and contextually, in conjunction with associated tools, as a part of the iterative development process.

The module provides you with an introduction to a range of game development tools including; asset creation, game engines and development environments. You will be required to design and develop a small number of games, demonstrating their understanding of the tools covered.

Build a solid understanding of fundamental programming techniques, mathematics and algorithms through a series of games focussed practical tasks that put the theory and techniques into context. You will learn how to structure small scale programming projects and make use of best practices such as version control.

Learn how to design intuitive, accessible and inclusive game experiences by analysing modern games and designing your own. You’ll get hands-on with key topics like onboarding (how to teach players without boring them), accessibility fundamentals (making sure your game works for as many players as possible), and inclusive design principles so players feel seen and represented in your game worlds. You’ll also explore how your own design choices influence how players think, feel and engage with the world. Whether it’s UI clarity or just-in-time gameplay teaching, you’ll develop practical skills that make your games more satisfying and enjoyable to play.

Learn how to develop AI systems for believable behaviours, you will implement a range of key technologies and algorithms, including behaviour trees, utility systems and path finding. You’ll get to see how these can be used together by building them into a small game framework.

You will be introduced to systems design and the structural forms associated with sustainable fun, progression and replayability with reference to a cross section of genres and experiential goals. You will assemble and structure their designs into coherent game loops and will collate their design decisions into accessible game design documents.

The module provides you with an in-depth view into the architecture of game engines and their implementations. You will construct their own basic game engine, implementing core components such as rendering, audio, scripting and input.

Develop and manage a game in teams with first year students using development processes used by professional game studios. As senior members of the team, you are executing a creative vision that you will have prototyped prior to the game’s production. You’ll follow an agile workflow and develop practical skills in project management, from writing agendas and meeting minutes to risk exposure and task tracking. You’ll also develop mentorship skills by coaching and guiding first year students as part of a collaborative team structure. Completion of the module will prepare you for entry level production roles by building confidence in your project management skills.

Narrative cues provide access to a wealth of ubiquitous experiential rewards which typically reside beyond the remit of ‘fun’. Throughout this module, you are introduced to the design work which informs the development of immersive worlds and identifiable characters. You are further introduced to the concept of, and components associated with, structural forms.

The module introduces you to the fundamental algorithms, theory, principles methods and techniques of 2D and 3D computer graphics. The mathematical underpinnings are covered in further detail from the level 4 Math for Software Development module. You will develop skills in implementing and developing computer graphic applications with C++ and standard graphics libraries (such as OpenGL) within a games programming context. The shader pipeline is also introduced, with you producing shader programs for use in your graphics applications.

Learn how to build level blockouts for games like Helldivers 2 and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows using key level design principles from visual language (how your level communicates interactivity, access etc) to pacing (the level’s tempo, rhythm and flow). You’ll also learn how to create motivational gameplay in recognition of an intended playstyle by building on your knowledge of gameplay scripting with topics such as events, interfaces, and composition. You’ll obtain a greater understanding of how players interact with game levels and systems, and how you can utilise them to create unique gameplay experiences. By the end of this module, you will be able to build believable play spaces and prototypes so that you can rapidly iterate and refine gameplay over time.

Within this module you are required to consolidate your existing game design and development skills into a single, independent piece of practical work that will be used on your portfolios to gain employment post graduation.

The Advanced Programming module is designed to fill the gap between the knowledge you have acquired from your other modules and the knowledge you will need in industry by providing seminars and activities on a range of small but important programming related topics. These sessions may cover such topics like: Basic multithreading and synchronisation, File I/O, Sockets Client/server, Event driven programming, Use of other windowing APIs., Design patterns. 

A degree final project should represent the culmination of your ability to undertake extended self-directed study in pursuit of an honours award. As a graduate student it is absolutely crucial to have a significant piece of work that represents the specialist skills developed on the course that can be presented in a portfolio to potential employers. This module offers the opportunity for this work to be produced within the context of an autonomous, academically rigorous project.

In this module, students will collaborate in small teams to build single, high-quality game. The game will be developed within an agile led development structure, drawing on experience they have gained in other modules to plan and control their progress.

Working with industry partners, you will have the opportunity to engage with a professional brief and dip your toes into the world of professional game development.

Interior view from inside Waterfront Building foyer, sunlight reflecting on the floor.

WHY SUFFOLK

1st University of the Year

WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025

2nd Teaching Satisfaction

Guardian University Guide 2026

2nd Student Experience

Good University Guide
A student sitting at a desktop computer
Student at The DigiTech Centre
Three students gaming in classroom
Computer Games and Creative Technologies
Three gaming students looking at the camera
Students at The DigiTech Centre
Close-up of large screens at the DigiTech Centre
Inside The DigiTech Centre

Entry Requirements

home-masthead-th

Career Opportunities

Positions which our graduates have achieved after graduation include: 

  • Level Designer
  • Lead Game Designer
  • Technical Designer
  • Assistant Producer
  • Game Designer
  • Software Developer
  • Full-Stack Engineer
  • Gameplay programmer
  • Quest Designer
  • System Designer
  • QA Games Tester
  • QA Team Lead
  • Content Designer
  • Games Master
  • Product Co-ordinator
  • Assistant Pipeline Director
  • Indie Developer

Our Ipswich-based students have worked on games such as Horizon Zero Dawn, Killzone Mercenary, Watchdogs 2, Ghost Recon Wildlands and Star Citizen. Graduates from the BSc (Hons) Games Development degree have been employed by top games studios in the UK and abroad. Graduate destinations include: Ubisoft (Romania), d3t Ltd, Guerilla Games, Rockstar, Electronic Arts (Romania), Spil Games (Netherlands), Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, Splash Damage, Sliding Pixel, The Imaginati, Dreadnought Studios, DGForm (Italy), Imaginarium Studios, War Hungry Games, Firelight Games, Betdigital, Aeria Games  (Germany), GmbH, Techland, Hammer Studio (China).

Our Careers, Employability and Enterprise Team are here to support you, not only whilst you complete your studies, but after you graduate and beyond.

To find out more about our range of services and support, please visit our Careers, Employability and Enterprise page.

 

Your Course Team

Chris Janes

Chris was formerly a gameplay programmer who worked on various games, most notably Hidden: Source. His teaching includes software design and AI for games.

Chris Janes staff profile photo

Dr Adam Clayden

Dr. Adam Clayden received his PhD from the University of Edinburgh (2019). He currently leads BSc (Hons) Games Development at University of Suffolk.

Adam Clayden staff profile photo

Heather Bishop

Heather has pursued a career in Academia to support her research in game design having graduated from the University of Suffolk in 2018.

Heather Bishop staff profile photo

Dave Pimm

Dave spent 12 years working in the games industry before moving to Academia. His research focuses on the application of psychology and neuroscience to gaming.

Associate Professor Rob Kurta

Rob specialises in non-digital games design, but before joining Suffolk spent 15 years at the University of East London teaching Computer Games Design.

Nick Thomas

Nick is the BSc (Hons) Games Development course leader and since joining the University, Nick has researched and worked on projects utilising VR technology.

Nick Thomas staff profile photo

Fees and Funding

UK Full-time Tuition Fee

£9,535

per year
UK Part-time Tuition Fees

£2,384*

per 30 credit module
International Full-time Tuition Fee

£15,690

per year

*Please contact Student Centre for further information on part-time fees.

The decision to study a degree is an investment into your future, there are various means of support available to you in order to help fund your tuition fees and living costs. You can apply for funding from the Spring before your course starts.

UK Fees and Finance UK Bursaries and Scholarships International Fees and Scholarships

How to Apply

To study this course on a full-time basis, you can apply through UCAS. As well as providing your academic qualifications, you’ll be able to showcase your skills, qualities and passion for the subject.

Apply Now Further Information on Applying
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Charlotte Spurgeon, Associate Designer, d3t Ltd.

"I would definitely recommend studying at the University of Suffolk, especially if you are interested in the technology sector, as the facilities are very up-to-date and constantly improving."

read more
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