Games Technologies - Introduction to

Overview
The convergence of technologies, platforms and creative practices around virtual worldbuilding has gained considerable momentum in recent years. The so-called Metaverse is currently providing much focus for new approaches to XR (extended reality), virtual production and digital twining with numerous applications across arts, social sciences, engineering, health and education.

The Introduction to Games Technologies allows students from a wide range of backgrounds to understand the tools, technologies and processes which make virtual worldbuilding, design and creativity work together in creating 3D environments.

Students gain practical skills in game engine programming on platforms including Unity, Unreal and Blender. This addresses specific skills gaps across industry where expertise and experience of the opportunities afforded by these new media tools will become increasingly important. The programme aims to recruit students from a wide range of employment and disciplinary backgrounds where the applications of these advanced media production technologies are becoming increasingly important.

Year 1
Core Modules
• Introduction to Games Technologies (20 credits)
• Studio 1 (20 credits)
• 3Din Games (20 credits)

Course Structure
Students enrol on a part-time (1 year) basis. The first semester will consist of two modules worth 20 CATS points each. The second semester will have one module worth 20 CATS points where students will form multi-disciplinary teams to work on projects.

Graduate
Normally at least a 2.2 UK Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in any discipline.

Applicants with qualifications below a 2.2 Honours degree standard may be considered if they can demonstrate appropriate extensive industry experience.

In addition to the academic requirements, all applicants will also be required to provide a personal statement (max 500 words) outlining their skills-base and motivation relevant to games technologies which will be used as part of the selection process. Further information on uploading this document is available on the Direct Applications Portal when applying.

The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL). Please visit http://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicy for more information.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 16th August 2024 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.

How to Apply
Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

1 year (Part-time)

Contact Teaching Hours
Large Group Teaching: 3 (hours maximum)
Each module has 30 hrs contact time in total over the 10 week semester in which it runs with a mixture of asynchronous and synchronous delivery - lectures, workshops, tutorial support, lab discussions, reviews and guest industrial lectures.

Small Group Teaching/Personal Tutorial: 3 (hours maximum)

Entry Year: 2024/25

Career Prospects
Introduction
The PG Certificate will equip you with the knowledge and skills required for a successful career using games technologies. Graduates will be eligible for roles in a variety of industries, including games development, film/TV, immersive experiences/Metaverse, advanced manufacturing, and architecture and engineering. Graduates would also have the opportunity to continue their studies and progress into research roles in this area.