Computer games and animation - Subject Guide

Single Honours 

• Animation 

• Digital Art 

• Games Design 

• Audio Engineering 

• Digital games development  

Joint Honours 

• Animation and Games Art 

• Film and Animation 

• Computer Science with Games Technology 

• Illustration and Animation  

SOURCE: COMMON DEGREE TITLES FROM WHATUNI

Alternative options 

• Foundation years: If you do not meet the entry requirements for your computer games and animation course, then you can take a one-year foundation course which will get you up to speed and it can also be used to improve your English language proficiency. 

• Sandwich degrees: A sandwich degree is a great way to gain a bit of extra work experience before graduation or experiencing a study abroad program by adding another year to your studies, typically between Years 2 and 3, or after Year 3. 

• Integrated Master’s: An integrated Master's degree extends your undergraduate degree by one year, and you’ll gain a Master’s degree qualification for relatively little extra cost, while delving deeper into your subject of interest. 

• Degree apprenticeships: Degree apprenticeships allow you to earn a wage as you learn new skills and gain a qualification. These courses usually last between three and six years, and your employer covers your course fees. 

FIND OUT MORE: Different types of undergraduate degree

SOURCE: WHATUNI

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• What you need to know to apply to university through UCAS

• UCAS points calculator

There typically aren’t any specific subjects needed for undergraduate study in computer games and animation, however three A-levels (or equivalent) are usual for UK entry. Popular options include a mix of technical and design subjects such as art and design, computer science, media studies, and English literature. 

FIND OUT MORE: How to choose your A-level subjects

The field of computer games and animation is rapidly evolving and involves a variety of disciplines from illustration and narrative design to motion capture. There are specialisms in both creative and technical aspects of the field, programming game mechanics, organising AI behaviour, and networking systems to develop immersive gameplay experiences. Some of these specialisms include: 

• Game engine development: Involves creating software frameworks that power interactive game environments, including physics engines, rendering pipelines, and scripting languages, to ensure smooth gameplay experiences across various platforms. 

• Narrative design and scriptwriting: Designers craft compelling storylines, character arcs, and dialogue choices, shaping immersive gaming experiences that resonate with players and drive engagement. 

• Shader programming: Creative programmers write code and use various design softwares to create detailed visual effects, lighting models, and rendering techniques, enhancing the realism and aesthetics of game graphics. 

• Motion capture: Motion capture records the movement and expressions of live actors, and integrates the data into digital characters, imbuing them with lifelike movements and emotions, enhancing immersion and storytelling in games and cinematic projects. 

• Game AI: AI can be used to develop algorithms and systems that control non-player characters (NPCs) and opponents, providing challenging and realistic gameplay experiences through adaptive behaviour models and decision-making capabilities. 

FIND OUT MORE: View all courses

• 3D modeling techniques 

• Character design and animation 

• Narrative techniques 

• Game engines and tools 

• User interface design 

• Artificial intelligence 

• Physics simulation 

• Virtual and augmented reality 

• Mobile game development 

• Game marketing and monetisation 

You can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of both technical and creative aspects of game design and animated media from fundamental principles of game design to 3D modelling and animation techniques, mastering software tools and programming languages to bring characters, environments, and objects to life. You’ll learn about sound design, used for creating immersive audio experiences, and work on collaborative projects, workshops, and internships, in preparation for careers in the rapidly expanding video game and animation industries. 

Transferrable skills which you’ll also develop include: 

• Time management 

• Presentation skills 

• Teamwork 

• Visual representation skills 

• Advanced digital literacy 

The world of computer games and animation is relatively newly established and exists as a hotbed of experimentation and innovation. While there aren’t any accreditations you’ll need to work professionally in the field, there are entities such as the British Interactive Media Association (BIMA) which promotes excellence in digital media, including gaming and animation through industry recognition and support. 

Computer games and animation design involves a mixture of creative and technical digital work. There are other degrees that fall within this area of study, and it may be work doing some research to see whether they appeal enough to consider applying to any of them. These may include: 

• Illustration 

• Software engineering 

• Interactive media 

• Graphic design 

• Film making 

Computer games and animation graduates have diverse career opportunities in the rapidly growing entertainment industry. They can pursue roles as game designers, developing innovative gameplay mechanics and immersive virtual worlds, or become animators working in film, television, or advertising.

Opportunities also exist in interactive media, where graduates can work on augmented reality experiences, interactive installations, or educational games. With their creativity and technical skills, graduates are well placed to shape the future of digital entertainment and storytelling. 

Career options include: 

• Game developer 

• Animator 

• 3D modeller 

• Visual effects artists 

• UI/UX designer 

• Quality assurance analyst 

• Concept artist 

• Motion capture technician 

• Project managers 

These are just a few of the most common job roles. You'll find plenty of other options available to you, and you can also continue your studies by completing a postgraduate degree in computer games and animation or a related subject. 

FIND OUT MORE: Career guides