Computer Science with Game Design BSc (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Bangor University

Program Overview

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:

  • Principles of Machine Learning
  • Advanced Data Management & Analyrics 
  • Computer Vision
  • Internet of Things 

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 .


 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

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.

Progression & Future Opportunities

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.

Program Key Stats

£19,000
Sept Intake : 29th Jan


41 %

Eligibility Criteria

ABB - AAA
2.4
34 - 40
65

1200
6.0
75

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Chief technology officer
  • Game developer
  • Data analyst
  • Data scientist
  • Database manager
  • Game designer
  •  Information systems manager
  • Game producer
  • Game programmer
  • Game tester
  • ​IT analyst
  • IT security specialist

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