A computing student playing video games on a computer, utilising innovative IOT esports facilities for improved experience.

Software Engineering (Game Development) - Foundation Degree

Summary

If you have a passion for video games then you will have some idea of how big the market is and what an appetite it has for innovation. If you want to be part of that, then this Foundation Degree is for you. The Software Engineering (Game Development) programme is an exciting course giving you the chance to develop industry relevant tools, languages and techniques to develop an impressive portfolio to showcase your abilities for key development roles whether you're new to computer or not.

In this fast-moving environment, it is obviously important that we remain at the cutting edge of the latest innovations. That's why our curriculum is continually evolving with input from our employer partners to ensure our programme stay industry relevant so that you have the skills to compete for the very best roles.

Taught by experienced tutors with a background in the industry, key elements of the programme are outlined below:

  • You will learn to code in industry relevant languages including C++ and DirectX to build skills
  • You will examine and apply skills to a range of different delivery platforms and technologies for example PC, PlayStation, and mobile channelling your love of games into viable playable products
  • You will gain general software engineering skills including working with databases, networked applications, systems analysis, producing technical designs and working to established development methodologies and developing interfaces all of which increase the range of careers you can pursue both in and out of the games industry
  • You will build a portfolio including 2D and 3D game demos, projects on licensed engines such as Unreal, database and network applications, Artificial Intelligence techniques and networked game demos, providing to employers evidence of your abilities and attitude for key development roles
  • You will work in team projects and individually, building collaborative and problem solving skills which will enhance value to future employers and develop yourself both personally and professionally
  • Course code DP1HE008
  • UCAS code G610
  • Duration 2 Years
  • Day/s of week Monday and Tuesday
  • Time 09:00 - 21:00

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
08 Sep 2025
University Centre
2 Years
  • £37,100 average annual salary
  • Rapid progression to Senior Management and Consultancy roles
  • 59,103 annual job openings in the North West

What Uni Reviews

Teachers are knowledgeable and very supportive. Equipment is top notch. ****
- Steven Dickson
Good community brilliant tutors and a good course. *****
- Jakub Kosiec
Excellent support and tutors. *****
- Afreen Hussain

Black and white logo for Lancashire & Cumbria Institute of Technology.

Two students engaged in video game testing on a computer, focusing on a game developed for their degree program.
A computing student wearing glasses interacts with a tablet inside an immersive pod environment.
A computing student with headphones attentively using a computer in a new innovative IOT esports environment.
Two students engaged in video game testing on a computer, focusing on a game developed for their degree program. A computing student wearing glasses interacts with a tablet inside an immersive pod environment. A computing student with headphones attentively using a computer in a new innovative IOT esports environment.
Two students engaged in video game testing on a computer, focusing on a game developed for their degree program.
A computing student wearing glasses interacts with a tablet inside an immersive pod environment.
A computing student with headphones attentively using a computer in a new innovative IOT esports environment.

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

As one of the most vibrant and dynamic markets in computing, the demand for new talent is always strong with companies always on the lookout for the next cutting-edge games developer.

Key information

Entry Requirements

A minimum of 96 UCAS points (excluding Functional Skills) in an appropriate discipline:

  • MMM from Extended Diploma or DD from Diploma in any level 3 Computing/IT course
  • We will strongly encourage and support those who do not hold GCSE Maths/English at grade C/4, or equivalent qualification, to pursue a Maths/English qualification alongside the main programme.

The entry criteria for direct entry onto Level 5 of the programme is:

  • Successful completion of the HNC Computing at Blackpool & The Fylde College

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are expected to achieve a minimum 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component

Applicants who are able to demonstrate relevant work/life skills or knowledge will also be considered on an individual basis.

Qualification obtained

FdSc Software Engineering (Game Development)

Fees and funding

Please visit our finance page for more information on tuition fees and available financial support.

Extra costs and equipment

There are no direct additional costs for this programme other than the provision of stationery, photocopying and so forth. However, students may wish to purchase a laptop to allow them to do coursework more flexibly.

It is possible to borrow a laptop or to get help with financing one if you are eligible for financial support.

Regulation and Accreditation

Accrediting Institute: N/A

Awarding Body: The University of Lancaster

Regulatory Body: Office for Students (OfS)

Terms and conditions

Read our full terms and conditions for more information.

What will I learn?

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

During the latter part of this course, you will need to complete 96 hours of related work-based activity. This will involve finding a suitable work placement, which we will encourage you to do yourself. If, for some reason, you’re unable to find a placement, our Workplace Co-ordinator will arrange interviews with employers; we may even find you an internal placement with our own IT Services Department.

Your work-based activity also includes timetabled sessions, which will involve creating CVs, learning about professional guidelines and legislation, and exploring how to apply your new-found skills to the workplace.

  • Modules at level 4

    Module title Code Credits Optional
    Introduction to Programming DP4MD020 20 No
    Mathematical Concepts in Programming DP4MD021 20 No
    Software Engineering Practices DP4MD022 20 No
    Database Concepts and Programming DP4MD023 20 No
    Algorithms and Data Structures DP4MD024 20 No
    Professional and Academic Skills Stem DP4MD034 20 No

  • Modules at level 5

    Module title Code Credits Optional
    Work Based Learning DP5MD022 20 No
    Cross Platform Programming DP5MD023 20 No
    Game Engine Development DP5MD024 20 No
    Graphics Programming DP5MD025 20 No
    Applied Game Mechanics DP5MD026 20 No
    3d Modelling and Environments DP5MD027 20 No

Study Support - at a glance

  • Higher Education Learning Mentors (HELMs)
  • One-to-one and group study support sessions
  • Pre-degree preparation workshops
  • IT Support
Discover available Study Support

Programme Specification

Download our Programme Specification for this course.

Tutor Profile - Chris Willitts

Area of Expertise:
Interaction Design, Human Computer Interaction, Video Game Development, Video Game Engines, Website Design & Development and Social Media Marketing.

Enjoys teaching at B&FC because:
I was once a student at B&FC and not the best one by far! The staff here never gave up on me and always urged me on to bigger and better things. Now, I have the opportunity to pay that forward and support new students each year.

How will I learn?

Scheduled Learning

Scheduled time relates to the time you spend in directed study with the guidance and support of our academic tutors. Scheduled learning can take a variety of forms and will vary from one course to the next, but may include lectures, seminars, tutorials, project supervision, demonstrations, studio or workshop time, fieldwork and external visits.

Independent Study

Higher education courses rely on students undertaking work outside of formal, scheduled sessions and this is generally categorised as independent study. Independent study might include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks and revision.

Expert tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of higher education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.

The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.

Learning Methods

Learning Method Level 4 Level 5 Level 6
Scheduled 340 297 0
Independent 860 873 0
Placement 0 30 0
Total 1200 1200 0
Ready to take the next step? Navigate to the top of the page and click Apply Now to continue your degree-level journey.

Not the course for you?

Take a look at some of our other degree-level study options and see what sparks your imagination.

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

Assessment Method Level 4 Level 5 Level 6
Coursework 69% 77% 0%
Exam 0% 0% 0%
Practical 0% 0% 0%