University of Staffordshire United Kingdom

Computer Games Design and Programming with a Foundation year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Computer Games Design and Programming with a Foundation year at the University of Staffordshire is your gateway into the dynamic world of interactive entertainment creation. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring game developers who want to build a strong foundation in both the artistic and technical aspects of game creation. You will explore essential concepts in games design, learn to utilise powerful game engines, and develop fundamental programming skills, preparing you for a career in the ever-evolving games industry. This programme offers a comprehensive introduction for those passionate about bringing their game ideas to life.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, including a foundational first year to build your core knowledge in areas like Games Design Foundations and Programming Foundations. As you progress, you will delve into C# Scripting for Games Engines, Game Artificial Intelligence, and advanced mechanics design. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, culminating in significant collaborative projects like the Junior and Senior Collaborative Games Development modules. You will graduate with a Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year and a portfolio of practical work, ready to pursue roles in game design, programming, or technical art.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive introduction to computer games design and programming, beginning with a foundational year. Students will explore core concepts in games design, engine technology, and programming fundamentals. Subsequent years build upon this base, delving into C# and C++ scripting, computational methods, graphics programming, game artificial intelligence, and advanced mechanics design. The curriculum culminates in collaborative development projects, preparing students for professional roles in the games industry.

1 Year 0 compulsory modules

Games Design Foundations
Games Engine Foundations
Introduction Into Games Scholarship
Introduction To Collaborative Enterprise
Programming Foundations

2 Year 1 compulsory modules

C# Scripting For Games Engines
Computational Methods
Game Prototyping
Introduction To Graphics Programming
Mechanics Prototyping
Programming Fundamentals

3 Year 2 compulsory modules

Advanced Mechanics Design
C++ For Engines
Game Artificial Intelligence
Introduction To Mechanics Design
Junior Collaborative Games Development

4 Year 3 compulsory modules

Games Development Project
Low-Level Gameplay
Multiplayer Level Design
Senior Collaborative Games Development

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

17% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,081.00 USD 23,093.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,093.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,093.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,093.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 88,362.00 USD 92,375.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Stoke-on-Trent campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace Engineering & DesignAirport Infrastructure & Aviation SecurityAviation & Air TransportCybersecurity & Network SecurityDefense & Military AviationPolice & Public SafetyPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalPrivate Security & Risk ManagementProduct Management & UXRoad Transport & Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Amazon

Amazon Web Services

BT Group

Bet365

Capgemini

Deloitte

EY

Why Study Computer Games Design and Programming with a Foundation year at University of Staffordshire

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Staffordshire in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Computer Games Design and Programming with a Foundation year at University of Staffordshire

Can I work while studying?

International students can work during term time based on their study level. Degree students can work 20 hours per week, while Diploma students can work 10 hours per week.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For non-native speakers, required scores include TOEFL: overall 72, IELTS: overall 6.0, or PTE: overall 59. Ensure you meet the specific listening, reading, speaking, and writing criteria.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Game Designer, Game Developer, Level Designer, Technical Artist, and QA Tester.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course covers taking game ideas from concept to final release and modifying game engine technologies. You'll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard design and development techniques.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the Computer Games Design and Programming course in January or September. Choose the intake that best fits your schedule.
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