About the course
Games programming is the largest and fastest growing entertainment industry in the world.
Our MSc gives you the highly specialised set of skills needed to stay and the forefront of this demanding and constantly evolving field. The Computer Science department at the University of Hull has provided graduate programmers to the games industry both in the UK and throughout the world for over 20 years, and as such we have developed a rich network of industry contacts, both graduate employers and alumni, who help us to ensure our course remains one of the best games programming courses in the UK.
Created with involvement from industry professionals, the course programme focuses on the technical aspects of game development and the underlying fundamentals of computer science. We cover a range of core concepts, including C++ programming, physics simulation, concurrency, advanced graphics, artificial intelligence, and game engine architecture. You will have use of our dedicated games development lab, equipped with the latest console development kits and top-spec PCs. You will also have access to HIVE — our multi-million pound virtual environment lab, which provides access to emerging and new technologies for computer interaction, data collection and visualisation.
The course begins in September each year and lasts twelve months. There are two trimesters of taught modules, followed by an individual dissertation project during the third trimester.
Studying Computer Science at Hull, you'll benefit from an excellent experience for students, with a supportive student community. We have an international reputation for our research activities, with a strong record of industrial and public grant funding. We are also affiliated with Microsoft’s DreamSpark programme, which allows you to access the latest Microsoft operating systems and development software for home use. Once registered with the University, you can download the software free of charge.
What you'll study
All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.
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Computer Science Dissertation
You will make an original contribution to research by designing, carrying out and writing up your own project on a topic you choose, supported by your dissertation supervisor.
All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.
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C++ Programming and Design
This module explores how to create efficient, robust, real-time applications in C++ and culminates in the development of a complex graphics-oriented solution.
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Real-Time Graphics
Gain essential knowledge and understanding, as well as practical tools of real-time 3D graphics rendering using modern programmable graphics hardware.
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Simulation and Artificial Intelligence
Mathematical and physics simulation and artificial intelligence are two key components in games development. You'll gain an understanding of the theory and skills required to develop physically-based simulations and gain an introduction to artificial intelligence. You'll explore the accuracy of your simulations and investigate the application of artificial intelligence methods in video games.
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Games Architecture and Concurrency
Explore the software architectures used in console and PC platforms. You’ll study game engine technologies that include CPU, GPU, bandwidth, bottlenecks and their solutions.
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Advanced Rendering and Virtual Environments
Explore 3D technology trends and some advanced techniques relating to 3D rendering and virtual environments. This module will provide you with hands on experience in advanced graphics effects programming, targeting the latest virtual environment devices.
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Development Project
Study the theory and practice needed to develop software, based on realistic contexts and clients’ requirements. You'll learn through an authentic task-based approach to software development, with experience of leadership, cooperation and teamwork.
This MSC is designed to support students with various levels of computing and programming practice experience. However, it is particularly suited to those with significant experience of writing code.
The modules in the first trimester are designed to allow a smooth transition to postgraduate study, regardless of your background.
As a route into research, the programme supports the development of postgraduate technical skills, alongside critical research, analysis and planning activities.
In lectures you’ll benefit from a range of techniques, from interpreting complex ideas through interactive discussions, to live programming or other problem-solving demonstrations.
Our degrees are accredited by the British Computer Society, The Chartered Institute for IT. The BSc and MSc programmes fully meet the academic requirements for Chartered IT Professional and partial Chartered Engineer status, while our MEng programmes fully meet the academic requirements for both Chartered IT Professional and Chartered Engineer status. Some employers recruit preferentially from accredited degrees, and an accredited degree is likely to be recognised by other countries that are signatories to international accords.
Teaching and learning
We place a strong emphasis on practical laboratory sessions. These will significantly develop your core computer science skills, and enhance your employability through exposure to commercial projects.
As teamwork plays a key role in commercial software development and has great value as an employable skill, group work is used in a number of modules.
Assessment
Practical coursework is the main form of assessment, and you will design, build and test software solutions to a variety of problems. This is complemented by written coursework. The largest assessment is the dissertation.