Bachelor of Science (Honours) Computer Science (Games Development)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

South East Technological University

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) in Computer Science (Games Development) at South East Technological University is a dynamic four‑year honours degree that equips you with both the creative and technical skills to design, develop, and program video games and interactive digital experiences. You’ll learn industry‑relevant programming languages and tools while building a portfolio of playable games, preparing you for careers in game studios or broader software development roles.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In your first year, you’ll establish a strong foundation in programming and game thinking, starting with modules such as Introduction to Programming, Introduction to Object Oriented Programming, and Game Design. You’ll also explore Mathematics for Graphics and Human Computer Interaction, while developing your creative skills through Introduction to 2D Digital Art and Concept Art for Games. This year sets you up to think like both a coder and a creator.

Year 2

Second year moves you into more specialised game and software development. You’ll study modules like Gameplay Programming I, 2D and 3D Gameplay Programming, and Computer Architecture for Game Devices. Teamwork and industry practices are emphasised through Agile Software Development and Software Engineering for Games, helping you build practical experience while refining your ability to create playable games.

Year 3

In Year 3, you’ll tackle advanced topics such as Data Structures and AI Algorithms and 3D Graphics, alongside opportunities for a Work Placement or Semester Abroad. You’ll also complete a Project in Computer Games to showcase your skills and start building a professional portfolio for your final year.

Year 4

In your final year, you focus on professional-level game development and optional advanced modules like Game Analytics, Artificial Intelligence for Games, and Fundamentals of Game Networking. A Capstone Project gives you the chance to demonstrate your creativity, technical expertise, and problem-solving abilities, completing your journey into becoming a skilled games developer.

Focus Areas

Game programming and engines (Unity, Unreal), AI and graphics, interactive design, software engineering practices, and team collaboration.

Learning Outcomes

Build playable games, master key programming languages such as C++, C#, Python, and JavaScript, apply industry standards like Git, and complete real projects with teamwork experience ready for professional roles.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This is an NFQ Level 8 honours degree recognised in Ireland, integrating practical projects, work placement, and industry tools aligned with sector expectations.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

SETU’s computing graduates are sought after by Irish and international game and tech companies, with alumni working for employers including Microsoft, Glu Mobile, and Frostbite Studios, reflecting strong industry connections and real-world outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At SETU, you won’t just learn theory — you’ll actively do what professional games developers do. From the early years, the programme emphasizes hands-on development using real industry tools like Unity and Unreal Engine, where you’ll build playable game prototypes and full titles. You’ll gain experience with professional programming languages such as C++, C#, JavaScript, and Python, and work with source control systems like Git, just as you would in a real studio environment. As you progress, you’ll collaborate with peers across art and design streams to create complete games, participate in national and international game events, and take part in a structured industry placement that gives you practical experience in a software company.

Your experiential learning includes:

Dedicated game development studios where you work on interactive game projects with peers and lecturers using professional engines and frameworks.
Use of industry-standard software tools such as Unity 3D, Unreal Engine, SFML, SDL, and OpenGL for building both 2D and 3D games.
Collaborative projects with students from Interactive Digital Art and Design, helping you integrate art, UX, and technical programming into your portfolio.
A paid work placement in Semester 6, working in a software house or IT department to apply your skills in a real professional setting and grow your network.
Opportunities to showcase your work at SETU’s final year project showcase, attended by employers from the games and tech industries.
Access to SETU’s library facilities across campuses with collaborative and individual spaces, and university computing support services to help you stay productive.
Connections with research and innovation through SETU’s Walton Institute, an internationally recognised ICT research centre, offering inspiration and potential pathways into advanced tech areas relevant to games and interactive systems.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) in Computer Science (Games Development) at SETU are well prepared to step confidently into careers where creativity and technical skills come together. You could take on roles such as Games Developer, Gameplay or AI Programmer, Engine Developer, or apply your software engineering skills to broader tech roles such as mobile app development or general software engineering. SETU supports your progression and helps you turn your degree into a career in several ways:

The Careers Development Centre provides tailored support including CV workshops, interview preparation, access to job vacancies, and networking events specifically for computing and IT students.
SETU students participate in careers fairs and industry events, connecting directly with employers offering internships and graduate roles.
Graduates are sought by companies such as Microsoft, Glu Mobile, Frostbite Studios, Havok, Demonware, and Engage XR, showing strong demand for skills developed in this program.
Computing and IT graduates from SETU enter a sector with competitive starting salaries and high employment rates within six months of graduation.
The degree’s NFQ Level 8 honours status ensures long-term professional value and provides a solid foundation for international career opportunities.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this programme, you could continue your studies with a postgraduate degree, such as a Master’s in Data Science, IT Management, or Game Development, or pursue a research-focused pathway like a Master’s or PhD through SETU’s gameCORE Research Centre. These opportunities can lead to specialist research roles or higher-level technical leadership positions in the games and technology sectors.