Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Computer Science (Games Development)
At Plymouth you will create your own apps, games, and VR solutions to build a versatile profile. Innovate in gaming and apply game tech to real-world problems, working solo and in teams. Build your portfolio and boost creativity for career success.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
Your gaming platform
You'll be part of our Plymouth games and development community, participating in exhibitions and national events such as EGX, Develop, Tranzfuser, and the Global Game Jam. These platforms allow you to present your ideas, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and build a portfolio that attracts industry attention.
Real-world projects
You'll work with local game studios and other creative partners on live projects, gaining valuable industry experience and building a network of professional connections before you graduate, ready for your career.
Expertly equipped
You’ll make the most of our dedicated game development labs which houses state-of-the-art equipment and immersive capabilities. Getting you hands on with a range of hardware and software configurations enhancing your learning and development as a game developer.
About
The course gives you every opportunity to show your skills. If you’re good at design, you can show that off. If you’re good at programming, you can show that off. As I am a mix of both the programming and the design sides, this is perfect for me.
It is best played through our arcade machine!
10 January 2026, 09:00–15:00
Come along to our Creative Futures taster day
Experience a day of creative workshops, inspiring talks, campus tours, portfolio advice, exhibits, games, and pop-up shops with Plymouth students, alumni, and staff.
Whether you want to kickstart your future in the creative industries, or just enjoy embracing all things creative, we can’t wait to welcome you.
This course is for you if...
you're passionate about creating innovative games and interactive experiences
you enjoy problem-solving and have a creative mindset
you're eager to gain hands-on experience with the latest game development tools and technologies
you aspire to work in roles such as game developer, game designer, or interactive media specialist
Details
Year 1
Start your journey at the cutting edge of technology. In your first year, you’ll dive into the core principles of computer science—learning to code, solve problems algorithmically, and master the maths that powers modern computing.
From day one, it’s hands-on: you’ll design databases, explore how operating systems work under the hood, and start thinking like a developer.
Our industry-aligned curriculum sets you up for success, with practical workshops and early preparation to set you up for specialisation.
Core modules
BPIE111
Stage 1 Computing Placement Preparation
0 credits
Undertaking a sandwich-year placement (also known as an industrial or work placement) offers many benefits, including valuable hands-on work-experience and enhanced employability. This module is for first-year students who may undertake a placement in their third year. It is designed to support students in exploring placement opportunities and developing the skills and knowledge required to successfully secure one.
COMP1000
Software Engineering 1
20 credits
In this hands-on module, you’ll explore how computers make decisions, repeat actions, and store data while building your own programs step by step to solve real-world problems using programming languages. Along the way, you'll use professional tools and techniques to write clean code, test, and debug. Whether you're dreaming of games, apps, or AI, this module is your first step into the world of software engineering.
100% Coursework
COMP1001
Computer Systems
20 credits
Explore the hidden machinery behind every computing device. In this foundational module, you'll uncover how computers really work - from digital logic to hardware architecture, operating systems, and assembly language. Build the understanding needed to work confidently across platforms and systems.
100% Coursework
COMP1002
Cyber Security & Networks
20 credits
Step into the world of secure digital infrastructure. You'll learn how devices connect, how data flows, and how to defend networks against cyber threats. From configuring routers to exploring malware and encryption, this module builds the skills to protect and manage today's interconnected systems.
100% Coursework
COMP1003
Algorithms, Data Structures and Mathematics
20 credits
Discover the logic that powers computing. This module dives into essential data structures and algorithms, showing how they solve real problems efficiently. From recursion to graph traversal, you'll combine theory and coding to develop analytical skills that form the core of computational thinking.
100% Coursework
COMP1004
Computing Practice
40 credits
Develop confidence in the day-to-day tools and workflows of modern computing. In this foundational module, you'll use real development environments, track code changes, write effective documentation, and collaborate on small projects. You'll gain essential habits that support software development, problem-solving, and teamwork from day one.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
Year 2
This is where your abilities start to truly shine. In Year 2, you’ll take core game programming skills to the next level - bringing your worlds to life with artificial intelligence, advanced game engine tech, and experimental user interfaces.
You’ll refine your development process, collaborate in creative teams, and prototype innovative gameplay experiences that reflect your unique style and passion.
A major group project challenges you to take on professional roles within a development team, integrating everything you’ve learned so far to deliver a complete game solution. It’s a year of growth, creativity, and serious portfolio-building.
Core modules
BPIE211
Stage 2 Computing Placement Preparation
0 credits
A year-long work placement is a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop skills that will enhance future career prospects. This module prepares students to begin their placement search by providing practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, and how to present themselves effectively to potential employers; featuring insights from students who have recently returned from their own placements.
COMP2000
Software Engineering 2
20 credits
Go beyond coding to master the craft of software development. This module builds on foundational skills by exploring agile practices, version control, test automation, and software quality. You'll learn how professionals deliver reliable, maintainable systems in dynamic real-world environments.
100% Coursework
COMP2001
Information Management & Retrieval
20 credits
In a world where data is everywhere, learn to find what matters. This module explores how to structure, store, and retrieve meaningful information using modern databases. You'll design queries, optimise search performance, and understand the backbone of intelligent data systems.
100% Coursework
COMP2002
Artificial Intelligence
20 credits
Unlock the foundations of machine intelligence. This module introduces core AI concepts including decision trees, neural networks, and heuristic search. You'll explore how machines learn, adapt, and solve problems, building intelligent systems that mimic human thinking.
100% Coursework
COMP2003
Computing Group Project
40 credits
Collaborate to build a working software system from idea to delivery. In this module, you'll take on a real-world development challenge as part of a structured team. You'll plan, design, code, and test your solution while honing agile methods, managing client expectations, and developing the communication and coordination skills used in professional software teams.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
COMP2007
Game Development
20 credits
Turn ideas into interactive experiences. In this hands-on module, you'll design and build digital games using industry-standard tools. Explore gameplay mechanics, visual storytelling, and user interaction while collaborating on engaging, playable prototypes that bring creativity to life.
100% Coursework
Optional placement year
Step into the real world and put your skills to the test. During this 48-week industry placement, you’ll gain invaluable experience in a professional environment - applying everything you’ve learned so far to real projects, real teams, and real challenges.
Supported by our strong network of industry partners and dedicated placement team, you’ll build confidence, sharpen your technical and professional skills, and grow a network of contacts that can open doors after graduation. It’s your opportunity to stand out, gain a competitive edge, and graduate with more than just a degree - graduate with experience.
Core modules
BPIE330
Computing Related Placement (Generic)
A year-long work-placement, undertaken with an approved placement provider and in a role relevant to the students programme. Students will leave with practical and relevant work experience, where they put theory into practice. This module is attached to the Placement and provides students with a single digital space to refer to for key reminders, FAQs, contact details, top tips and their Placement-year handbook.
Final year
This is your final level - where ambition meets opportunity. Whether you want to join a studio, freelance, or start your own company, Year 3 gives you the tools to make it happen.
Surrounded by a thriving community of developers, you’ll have access to game jams, hackathons, industry talks, and enterprise support. You'll specialise in areas like advanced graphics, game AI, or industry-led development projects, while completing a substantial individual project that showcases your technical mastery and creative vision.
This is your chance to craft something remarkable - your launchpad into the games industry.
Core modules
COMP3000
Computing Project
40 credits
This module provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to work independently on an in-depth project with an implementation element that builds on their established knowledge, understanding and skills to provide a problem solution. Self-management, innovation, creativity, ability to synthesise information, ideas and practices are key concepts, as is the ability to engage in critical self-evaluation.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
COMP3013
Team Enterprise
20 credits
Build something big as a team. In this studio-style module, you'll work collaboratively on a software project, taking responsibility for technical delivery, peer mentoring, and agile coordination. It's a deep dive into teamwork, creativity, and enterprise-focused software development.
100% Coursework
COMP3019
Computing Product Development, Management & Delivery
20 credits
Turn ideas into real-world solutions! This dynamic, hands-on module takes you through the full development journey — from pitching and planning to quality assurance and product launch. You’ll explore the essentials of managing constraints, tackling ethical and legal challenges, and marketing with purpose. Perfect for future developers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
COMP3006
Full-Stack Development
20 credits
Build complete web applications from front to back. In this module, you'll design interfaces, implement server logic, and connect databases using industry-standard tools. You'll develop and deploy full-stack systems that power interactive, data-driven digital experiences.
100% Coursework
COMP3007
HCI, Usability and Visualization
20 credits
Design technology that works for people. In this module, you'll explore the science and art of Human-Computer Interaction, usability engineering, and interactive visualisation. Learn how to build intuitive interfaces, evaluate user experiences, and visualise data in ways that are clear, accessible, and impactful.
100% Coursework
COMP3015
Games Graphics Pipelines
20 credits
Bring game worlds to life by mastering the graphics pipeline. From shaders to rendering techniques, you'll learn the programming skills behind visual effects in modern games. This module equips you to create immersive environments that perform as beautifully as they look.
100% Coursework
COMP3016
Immersive Game Technologies
20 credits
Step into virtual worlds you've built yourself. Explore the technologies behind immersive gaming, from VR to AR, by developing interactive experiences using cutting-edge platforms. Learn how to blend presence, interaction, and storytelling for maximum impact.
100% Coursework
Optional pathways
We offer a suite of computer science courses allowing you to choose your specialist field.
We also offer
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year
.
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
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Bring your ideas to life!
Create your own apps, games, and immersive virtual and mixed reality experiences. Push the boundaries of innovation in the games industry while using powerful game technologies to tackle real-world challenges.
Whether working solo or as part of a team, you’ll build an impressive portfolio, grow as a creative, versatile developer, and launch your career with confidence and impact. Work on projects from week one. Develop workflows, processes and understanding that allows your team to innovate.
Make something tangible. Ensure it works. Optimise and iterate. Be agile and ready to overcome challenges.
Our specialist labs aid our research-driven, hands-on teaching
Our Computer Science hub provides a dedicated space for our community of students, staff and technicians.
We also have artificial intelligence, games development, cyber security and software engineering labs to support our suite of specialist degrees.
Design, develop and test real-world games in our specialist Games Development Lab.
Leveraging engines such as Unity and Unreal, you're able to practice your skills; developing and deploying highly creative, innovative and interactive games.
Our hardware systems provide the necessary computation and graphical processing for timely rendering and compiling.
Check out our student showreel 8
Dedicated game development labs with high-end development PCs running industry leading game engines.
Project labs for full virtual production. Space for a variety of hardware and development approaches to create your game visions.
Virtual reality takes center stage in our labs enabling you to create immersive experiences, games, and tech demos.
Meet your expert teaching staff
We have active research projects that are key to some of the industry's most pressing issues. Active core members of these research groups make up a large proportion of your lecturers and tutors, and you will be taught be some of the best academics in the field.
Our
technical staff
are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Rory Hopcraft
Lecturer in Cyber Security
Programme Director
Dr Vasilios Kelefouras
Lecturer in Computer Science
Admissions Tutor
Dr Fatma Bouabdallah
Lecturer in Computer Science
Year 1 Tutor
Passionate about all things computing?
Explore, innovate, and connect with CompSoc; the University of Plymouth Computing Society. We offer a platform to:
- participate and learn together in collaborative coding sessions. Perfect for both improving your skills and helping others with their coding challenges
- gain insights from industry professionals through our guest speaker events, providing valuable industry connections and real-world perspectives on what it's like working in tech.
- build your professional network at our events. Meet peers, alumni, and professionals from the tech industry, opening doors to potential career opportunities and collaborations.
Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
The course places a strong emphasis on employability with a focus on the technical side of game development
You will gain highly transferable skills for a fast-evolving sector and beyond. As part of the degree you will be able to establish a tailored developer profile and your career path through our professional network, developer community and international partners.
Perhaps your dream is to start your own company by yourself or with a team, we will support you with the help of the
The Cube's
entrepreneur programme.
I have gone from knowing nothing to being confident enough now to build my own applications and games and work for companies in the industry. I was offered a job from the work I did while on placement and I've recently signed a contract with them which is fantastic.
Arron Burch created his burger flipping game for VR platforms and released it on Viveport.
Optional placement year: preparing you for the future
We regularly have students securing placements and jobs at FTSE 100 companies. There is a perception that only students from red brick universities go to these places. It simply is not the case – our students are massively competitive and win these placements as well.
Professor Nathan Clarke
Professor in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
Preparing the next generation of computer scientists means offering opportunities to collaborate with industry connections through work placements and taking real-world business projects.
The optional placement year offers you the chance to engage in hands-on learning, gaining practical experience so that you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
Our students have been highly successful in obtaining positions in top-class companies including well-known multinationals such as: IBM, Intel, HP and Microsoft; at national and government organisations and corporations such as BBC, Met Office, and Land Registry; and at local companies/organisations such as Delt Shared Services, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Marine Labs and University of Plymouth Technology Information Service (TIS) department.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
Full-time study
ÂŁ9,790 per year
ÂŁ9,790 per year
Part-time study
ÂŁ815 per 10 credits
ÂŁ815 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ18,650 per year
ÂŁ18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,955
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,465
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ19,200 per year
ÂŁ19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
ÂŁ1,955
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
ÂŁ1,465
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to field-based activities or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Tamar Engineering Project
The
Tamar Engineering Project
is open for applications to ambitious students who want to embark on a career in engineering and who have shown potential for high academic achievement at A level, but whose background or personal circumstances may be a barrier to university study. Successful applicants will receive:
- ÂŁ3,000 per annum towards living costs for the duration of the taught element of their degree (usually three years)
- ÂŁ1,500 fee waiver per annum
- one-to-one mentoring from an industry expert.
Applications close on 30 June 2025
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above are required.
A levels
104 104 points from a minimum of 2 A levels.
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM – in science-related subjects: IT, Humanities, Engineering, Software Development, IT Practitioners, Business, Computing, Science.
BTEC National Diploma Modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All Access courses
Pass Access to Higher Education Diploma in a relevant subject (e.g. Computer Science, Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Technology) with at least 33 Level 3 credits at Merit and/or Distinction.
T level
Merit overall in Digital: Digital Production, Design and Development or Digital Support Services.
International Baccalaureate
26 overall. English and Mathematics accepted within as GCSE equivalent.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
I622
I622
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Foundation Year
Don't have the traditional entry requirements to start a degree? Get a solid grounding in the disciplines underpinning computer science through an additional foundation year, gaining hands-on skills across a range of topics.
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
I622
I622
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Other routes to this course
If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the
University of Plymouth International College (UPIC)
.
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.