POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION Programme Title: Awarding Body: Teaching Institution: Final Awards: Intermediate Awards: Mode of Study: UCAS Codes: QAA Subject Benchmarks: JACS Code: Professional/Statutory Body: MSc Computer Games Staffordshire University Faculty of Computing, Engineering & Sciences MSc Computer Games PgC/PgD/MSc Computer Games Full Time Not Applicable Master s Degrees in Computing 2011 Accredited by BCS The Chartered Institute for IT for: Chartered IT Professional - Further Learning (CITP) Chartered Engineer (CEng) -partial Chartered Scientist (CSci) -partial Date of Production: April 2013 Date of Revision: April 2015 If you require this document in a larger text or a different medium please contact us. 1
EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME To develop masters-level knowledge and skills in Computer Games in context of employer-driven needs, emerging markets, and contemporary subject areas within the discipline. Develop awareness of current research and practice in computer games programming. Extend theoretical knowledge and practical skills of models, methodologies, and programming techniques that can be employed in the development of computer games. Critically apply the theoretical and principle-based aspects of programming to the design, practical development and implementation of computer games. To develop academic and discipline-specific rigour through applied scholarship to build or strengthen domain-specific understanding and transferrable skills thus equipping graduates for a career in industry or academia To develop and strengthen critical analysis, independent scholarship, and intellectual empowerment through a structured research-informed programme of studies. To use the rigour of academic knowledge development and training to develop applied practical skills for the engineering & construction of computer games. Develop academic and discipline-specific rigour through applied scholarship to build or strengthen domain-specific understanding and transferrable skills thus equipping graduates for a career in industry or academia Develop and strengthen critical analysis, independent scholarship, and intellectual empowerment through a structured research-informed programme of studies. Provide a balanced programme of study, comprising games development principles with the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience. Develop effective communication skills of value to academic, technical and professional environments. What is distinctive about this programme? This cutting-edge award will prepare you for a career in the computer games sector. You will have the opportunity to learn using technology such as the Sony PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, and will be taught by staff with wide-ranging industry expertise. Designed to build on the computing knowledge gained in your undergraduate studies, this MSc will enable you to move into games programming and gain an in- 2
depth knowledge of related specialised areas. The award covers a range of topics including: 3D graphics using DirectX, Artificial Intelligence, Physics, Low level PlayStation 3 programming, and software engineering for games. Practical classes are taught using new high spec computers, and the latest games consoles including the Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3. By studying on this award, you will be at the heart of these exciting and innovative developments, and equipped for a future and promising career in this area. There is also the opportunity to complete a placement in the games industry. The award also aims to instil sound academic & professional skills required for lifelong learning & development. Students also have the opportunity to apply for an industrial placement and are assisted in this process by our placements team. Other distinctive features: Work towards graduating with the skills necessary to work as a programmer in the games industry Learn the principles and techniques of software development specific to computer games Build on the computing knowledge gained in your first degree to become a specialist in computer games programming Develop your ability to work effectively in project teams, with sufficient knowledge, skills and experience to create large-scale computer games Gain experience using cutting-edge technology such as Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 Experience practical work, largely using industry-standard programming languages such as C++ Study advanced graphics, physics, and artificial intelligence techniques that are used in current computer games Learn in the UK - home to major games companies such as Rockstar North, Codemasters, Lionhead Studios, and the largest video games market in Europe You can choose to undertake a 12 month industrial placement where the University will advise you and help you in finding a placement opportunity There will be opportunities to attend a variety of guest lectures, seminars, and mini-conferences Independent research features strongly throughout the course. You will be able to develop your research skills and apply these in the completion of an awardspecific dissertation in Computer Games. This provides a good foundation for progressing to further research study. 3
PROGRAMME OUTCOMES What will this programme teach me to do? At the end of your studies you should be able to: Knowledge & Understanding Develop specific focus and depth of critical understanding and interpretation of theoretical and technical knowledge in the domain of Computer Games including that at the forefront of the field. Learning Develop and demonstrate full and competent ability in the approach, execution and critical synthesis of software development relating to games development, the associated theory, and principles, and the translation of this to real-world contexts. Enquiry Understand and apply advanced techniques of research and enquiry in Computer Games and problems associated with the development of computer games and propose effective solutions that are applicable within complex and unpredictable contexts. Analysis Understand and demonstrate analytical powers of thought through critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of subject material and demonstrate an in-depth understanding and application of research styles and methods of inquiry relating to games development and associated current and emerging domains. Problem Solving Use problem solving techniques to produce acceptable solutions in complex and unpredictable situations that encompass a range of stakeholders associated with games development & deployment within legal, ethical, and professional governance. Communication Convey, the educational experience and accrued knowledge & skills to academic and non-academic audiences, including its value in both an academic and commercial context. Application Adopt a critical lens and approach to the application of Computer Games theories, principles & practice to academic and commercial contexts in order to produce solutions of real value. Reflection Be able to fully identify and understand one s one intellectual capital in relation to Computer Games and its future value in the academic and commercial Knowledge Economy 4
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE, MODULES AND CREDITS Programme Title: MSc Computer Games September start Fast Track Semester 1 (12 weeks) COSE70601 Low-Level Game. COSE70541 Game Artificial Intelligence L E V E L Semester 2 (12 weeks) COSE70635 Game Engine and Architecture COSE70603 Real-Time Graphics for Games COSE70634 Professional Games Development and Research Techniques COSE70598 Concurrent and Multiplayer Game 7 Dissertation period (Teaching Block 3) (The dissertation period is 16 weeks plus a viva period) COIS71052 Dissertation (60 Credits) Note no industrial placement period is permitted as part of the Fast Track award. 5
September start Standard Semester 1 (12 weeks) COSE70601 Low-Level Game. COSE70541 Game Artificial Intelligence L E V E L Semester 2 (12 weeks) COSE70635 Game Engine and Architecture COSE70603 Real-Time Graphics for Games COSE70634 Professional Games Development and Research Techniques COSE70598 Concurrent and Multiplayer Game 7 Summer Vacation Dissertation period (Semester 1 extended) (The dissertation period is 16 weeks plus a viva period) COIS71052 Dissertation (60 Credits) Note the award allows students to take a 6 or 12 month industrial placement between the completion of study of the PG Diploma stage and commencement of the Dissertation period, subject to a student meeting the relevant progression regulations. Potential Awards: Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits) comprising a total of 60 credits from any of the modules listed above including any required core modules. Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) comprising PG Cert plus a total of 60 credits from any of the modules listed above including any core modules. MSc (180 credits) total of 180 credits from any of the modules listed above including the MSc Dissertation and Core Modules. 6
Progression: In order to progress to the Industrial Placement (Internship) you must have passed at least 45 credits. In order to progress to the MSc Dissertation you must have passed at least 105 credits. HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT AND ASSESSED? Teaching and Learning A substantial variety and range of teaching and learning strategies are used on this award. These take the form of class attendance (for on-campus students), directed reading, independent reading (this is very strongly encouraged), electronic delivery of learning material, computer simulations, discussions with supervisors, practical work, problem solving, working with peers in group activities, working with people in industry, undertaking literature reviews and critically appraising published work, giving presentations, being interviewed, report writing, industrial visits and seminars. This variety of methods is designed to encourage you to become an independent learner so that you can continue to increase your knowledge even after you finish the course (and thus is contributes to your employability). Teaching and learning within the University is supported by electronic distribution of information and course management through the Blackboard virtual learning environment. Each module within the Faculty has a presence on Blackboard. This allows you to engage in your studies in a structured, directed and flexible manner. The system also provides a means of formal and informal communication between students and lecturers through discussion forums. Many of the modules on the MSc have been developed to make full use of this facility and are used as exemplars of good practice. The information on Blackboard is in support of, and not as a replacement for, attendance at taught classes each week attendance is a requirement (for on-campus students). You will also approach your studies from both practical and theoretical perspectives; and also learn from the range of assessment activities that you will be subjected to. These activities include delivering presentations, engaging in interviews, recording logbooks, programming, and report writing. You will receive both written and verbal feedback on these activities from tutors to assist you in further developing your skills. The substantial range of facilities available within the Faculty and the University, contribute to generating a research/academic community environment and culture that impacts favourably on MSc students. However, the resource that influences the learning of students most on these awards is probably the staff - their approach to supporting you, their specialist subject knowledge, and their knowledge of appropriate specialist texts and other support material that can contribute to your learning. Thus, we believe in, and practice, Research Informed Teaching The dissertation will involve regular supervisory meetings to discuss the progress of your research and practical implementation. Your supervisor will provide feedback on work submitted in draft form. Most of the dissertation period will consist of independent learning, where you will formulate, plan, pursue and document a 7
programme of systematic research and artefact development. To find out which software is available in the laboratories please check: http://www.fcet.staffs.ac.uk/current_students/labs.htm Assessment Games programming is an inherently practical subject. You need to gain a good level of competency in the actual development of the algorithms and techniques discussed in the lectures. Therefore the assessment is largely assignment based, with a number of modules having a 70% assignment component. These assignments can consist of a combination of: Creation and demonstration of a game or game-related program Critical report reflecting on a practical implementation Literature review Design documentation Oral presentation of work You also need to demonstrate knowledge and application of the technical and algorithmic elements of games programming, and therefore there are a number of written exams and class tests to address learning outcomes that relate to the nonpractical elements of the course. Written examinations may include assessment of a portfolio of practical work. The Dissertation is assessed by a written report, and a demonstration and viva-voce examination following the submission of the thesis. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Entry Requirements (including IELTS score) What qualifications would I need to join this programme? The entry requirements for the award are normally: An Undergraduate Honours degree (grade 2.2 or above) in a related Computing discipline from a UK University or the international equivalent. You must be able to demonstrate a good standard of English. A minimum score of IELTS 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands) or an equivalent qualification is required for this award. Applicants with appropriate experience will also be considered provided you satisfy the University that you are capable of responding to the challenge of postgraduate study. Disability Statement Staffordshire University operates a policy of inclusive teaching and learning to ensure 8
that all students have an equal opportunity to fulfil their educational potential. Details about how to apply to have your needs assessed can be found at: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/courses_and_study/disabled_students/index.jsp AWARD SPECIFIC INFORMATION Assessment of the programme will be undertaken in accordance with the University awards regulations. Students are encouraged to undertake a suitable Industrial Placement (Internship) lasting up to a maximum of 1 academic year. This placement must be completed before the student starts the MSc Dissertation. The placement is zero credit rated and so does not contribute to the final award. Award specific regulations: In order to progress to the Industrial Placement (Internship) you must have passed at least 45 credits. In order to progress to the MSc Dissertation you must have passed at least 105 credits. Further information about the award can be found in the relevant Student Handbook and on the University Website. This includes information about optional modules, student support, and academic regulations. ==================================== 9