Why Apply for a Degree in Games Technology?
Although this might sound like one of the so-called “Mickey Mouse” degree subjects, Games Technology is a serious degree and the games technology industry is big business.
The University of Abertay was the first in Europe to offer a Games Technology undergraduate degree and since then many other UK universities have followed suit due to the high demand.
Don’t think that you’ll spend all of your time sitting around playing Call of Duty though – Games Technology degrees are designed to give you a real insight into how computer games are built and equip you with the skills to create them yourself.
You’ll combine coding and Mathematics with a detailed study of computer technology and look at game design and the games industry as a whole.
But the question is, why apply for a degree in Games Technology?
Where can I study Games Technology?
There are now a number of universities across the UK that offer degrees in Games Technology or similar subjects, including:
- University of Abertay
- De Montfort University
- Norwich University College of the Arts
- Sheffield Hallum University
- Southampton Solent University
- Staffordshire University
- Teesside University
- University of Glamorgan
- University of Hull
- University of the West of Scotland
Remember, it’s important to check the course content for each university carefully before applying so you know exactly what’s involved. For example, some courses may be heavily based on group work, which might not appeal to some students.
You’ll be spending the next three years of your life studying Games Technology at university, so it’s vital that you apply for courses where you’ll enjoy the majority, if not 100%, of the modules.
What are the entry requirements for a Games Technology degree?
If you’re thinking that just your passion and a solid history of spending your spare time playing computer games is going to be enough to get you on a course, unfortunately you’re wrong!
Universities often ask for a Mathematics A Level and you may find a computer based subject or Physics an advantage. You’ll need to have strong communication skills as a lot of teamwork goes into building computer games.
You’ll also find that grade requirements are on the higher side, with Abertay asking for BBC and Birmingham City wanting BBB or above to receive an unconditional offer.
What will my degree cover?
Of course each university sets its own syllabus, but you’ll find modules similar to those listed below at all universities offering Games Technology.
Modules often include:
- Computer based artistic expression
- Artificial intelligence
- Mathematics
- Designing game levels
- Software engineering for computer game production
- Professional context of technology
- Introduction to 2D games programming
- 3D game world development
- The media industry
- Games graphics programming
- Games console programming
Your course will cover everything from how to make a video game to what makes them appeal to the public and how to market your game to your chosen audience.
By combining the practical side of Games Technology with the business side of the industry you’ll gain all the skills you need to move into a successful career after graduation.
Speaking of which…
What are my career options with a Games Technology degree?
Obviously the reason most people choose a certain degree is because of the employability prospects after graduation, and as you would imagine, most people who study Games Technology are looking for a career in the industry.
Many universities build strong links within the industry in order to be able to offer their students the chance to complete work placements with some of the top companies in game technology.
This not only boosts your employability but also gives you an idea of what life in the industry is really like. If you haven’t decided which direction you want to take your career in, this might help you decide what you want (or what you don’t want) to do when you’ve finished studying.
Leading companies are often involved with the development of Games Technology courses, so you can be sure you’ll be gaining the skills that employers are looking for.
Popular career options for Games Technology graduates include:
- Games developer
- Computer programmer
- Computer games publishing
- Technology marketing
- Public relations
- Journalism
- Medical technology
- Weapons technology
- Virtual reality
- Computer simulation
