Bangor’s specialized degree merges core computer science with creative game design, offering training in C++ programming, graphics maths, gameplay mechanics, and engine development—supported by industry-standard resources and optional placement opportunities. It’s validated by the BCS and emphasizes real-world projects like console games and interactive media, setting you up for roles as a game programmer, engine developer, or indie creator
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Computing
You'll Start with solid foundations in modules like Imperative Programming Foundations, Object-Oriented Programming, Mathematics for Computing, Game Studies, and Web Technologies. You’ll learn coding (Java, C++), build small 2D games, and explore game theory and mechanics—through labs, tutorials, and interactive workshopsYear 2 – Advanced Concepts & Team Projects
Year 2
You’ll dive into Data Structures & Algorithms, AI & Game Design, Game Development, Level & Mechanics Design, and take part in Industrial Projects and Business & Enterprise Programming. This year balances deep technical growth with the creative process behind game logic, mechanics, and technical team development
Year 3 – Individual Research & Specialisation
The final year includes a major Individual Project, Research Methods, Advanced Game Development, Game Design 3, Creative Visualisation, and Game Production. You’ll build a portfolio-quality game or immersive experience, demonstrating mastery of research, design, technical skills, and teamwork
As well other advanced optional modules like:
Optional Pathways
Placement Year (between Years 2–3): Gain industry experience with partners such as Airbus, IBM, and local tech firms.
Study Abroad: Participate in international exchange programs in Europe or globally to broaden your perspective and skills.
Assessment Overview
Continuous Assessment: Lab work, quizzes, programming tasks, group presentations, and code reviews.
Final Exams: Applied in theory-based modules.
Team Project (Year 2): Assessed on both deliverables and collaboration quality.
Individual Project (Final Year): Evaluated through code, a detailed written report, and a final presentation.
Focus areas:
"Game programming & graphics • Game AI & mechanics • Algorithms & data structures • Web and enterprise development • Research & production pipeline • Advanced game project • Optional placement or study abroad"
Learning outcomes:
Program and optimize games in languages like C++ and Java
Design engaging game mechanics and immersive user experiences
Apply AI, graphics, and algorithmic logic in game contexts
Conduct independent research and development in game creation
Collaborate effectively on multi-disciplinary game projects
Present polished game prototypes and production documentation
Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is fully BCS-accredited, qualifying for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status. Optional placement/international year and industrial projects reinforce workplace-ready skills
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
Bangor is TEF Gold-rated, and its computing labs including networking, cleanroom, VR, and electronics are praised for excellence
Ranked highly in the Government’s most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), with 85% judged to be world-leading
Bangor research in Top 30 for societal impact in UK
The school’s research in AI, graphics, and data visualization actively informs teaching and student projects .
BSc (Hons) Computer Science at Bangor University blends hands-on learning, research-led teaching, and strong industry links to deliver a practical, forward-looking computing education. From high-spec labs to tailored career support, the programme equips students with the real-world experience needed for success in a fast-moving tech landscape.
Experiential Learning Highlights
Modern Computing Labs: Two open-access Windows/Linux dual-boot labs (50+ terminals), plus dedicated facilities for Networking, Electronics, and Research. Includes a Class 1000 clean-room and Keysight-equipped electronics testing lab.
Up-to-Date Industry Environments: All labs are regularly updated to reflect current tools and practices in industry.
Remote Access & Virtualisation: UNIX/Linux infrastructure allows you to access lab environments remotely, enabling coding, testing, and system deployment from anywhere.
Game-centric curriculum fused with key theory: You’ll reflect critically on mechanics, narrative, culture, and ethics alongside technical implementation
Device Loan Scheme: Raspberry Pis, smartwatches, and IoT kits available to support embedded systems and hardware projects.
Campus-wide Digital Support: Access to the 24/7 central library, IoT maker spaces at Pontio, and full IT support throughout your studies.
Experiential Learning Highlights
Year 1–3 Practical Sessions: Weekly demonstrator-led labs help you build hands-on proficiency in Java, Python, C/C++, Linux systems, networks, cybersecurity, AI, and electronics.
Enterprise-Pro Team Project (Year 2): Work in teams on real-world client briefs, designing and delivering working software or systems using Agile methods.
Final-Year Capstone Project: Supervised by research-active staff, your individual project often focuses on topics like AI, security, IoT, or computer vision utilizing specialist labs and resources.
Placements, Internships & Career Preparation
Optional Industry Placement Year: Take a paid or research-based placement in Year 3, either in the UK or abroad, fully supported by faculty and the Careers & Employability Service.
Short-Term Internships: Gain 6–10 week placements during term breaks via university programs like IAESTE and internal schemes.
Research Internships: Engage in summer research with university labs on projects in AI, data science, electronics, and more.
Strong Industry Connections: Collaborations with local tech hubs like Parc Menai mean students often co-develop their final-year projects with real companies.
Comprehensive Career Services: CV writing help, mock interviews, mentoring, and access to the Bangor Employability Award support your long-term professional growth.
Graduates from Bangor’s BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Games Design programme benefit from excellent post-study opportunities, with around 85% of graduates from Bangor University are in employment or further study within 15 months, with approximately 85% in highly skilled roles.
Typical roles include:
Game Software / Tools Developer
Graphics Programmer
Embedded Programmer
Systems Engineer in Game Studios
University Services That Support Employment
The Skills & Employability Service provides:
Workshops
CV and interview coaching
Internships and volunteering opportunities
The Bangor Employability Award, adding structured career development to your studies
Internship schemes run twice per year
Final-year projects often involve real-world collaborations with local companies, giving you valuable employer-facing experience
Employment Stats & Salary Figures
100% of recent cohorts were in employment or study within 15 months
Median salaries:
~£25,500 at 15 months
~£28,500 at 15 months
~£36,000 after 5 years
University–Industry Partnerships
Final-year projects and internships are often conducted with firms in the nearby Parc Menai technology hub and other regional businesses
Access to the undergraduate internship scheme, offering paid, graduate-level experience across Bangor’s academic schools and service departments
Accreditation & Long-Term Value
Fully validated by the British Computer Society (BCS)
Aligns with requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP)
Confirms that the course meets recognized professional standards
Research-driven teaching and technical focus support long-term career development
Further Academic Progression
After graduation, you can:
Pursue an MSc in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cyber Security, or Software Engineering
Enroll in an MSc by Research or continue to a PhD, benefitting from Bangor’s research-active faculty and lab facilities
Work toward Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status through your BCS-validated degree and placement experience
Enter professional conversion programmes (e.g., fintech, IT consultancy) or teacher training, supported by Bangor’s careers services.
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