Bachelor of Science Computer Games Development Careers
Key information
Employability Skills from this degree
- Understanding the fundamentals of software for computer graphics
- Working in teams and liaising with other professionals to complete complex, software-based games projects
- Working creatively and problem-solving
- Communicating (written and verbal)
- Developing skills in cinematography and story writing
- Cultural awareness: developing games appropriate to international markets
- Technical ability and solid skills in software development:
- Object Oriented Design
- Mobile apps
- Data structures and algorithms
- Self-motivation and the ability to work independently
- Flexibility in meeting deadlines and client requirements
Further Study Options
- MEng in Information and Network Security
- MSc in Software Engineering
- MA in Journalism, Sport
- MA Technical Communication and eLearning
- MA English
- Grad Dip/MA in Public Administration
- MA Creative Writing
Job titles for graduates with this degree
- Graduate Programme Intern
- IT Technician
- Junior IT Consultant
- Junior Software Engineer
- Marketing Executive
- Mission Scripter
- Programming Engineer
- QA Engineer
- Research Assistant
- Service Engineer
- Social Localisation Programmer
- Software Developer
- Software Engineer
- Software Programmer
- Software QA Tester
- System Document Author
- Systems Software Engineer
- Systems Technician
- Technical Support
- Technology Analyst (Consulting Department)
Student profiles
Ryan Kerswill
As a Network Programmer, a typical day involves designing systems, implementing features, research and fixing bugs. Communication is important and our team discusses various topics every day. This includes a daily meeting where we explain what we have been working on to keep immediate team members informed of each other's work, and if there are any problems. On complex problems, we design them together for more feedback on the current solution. Sometimes we review each other's work before submitting it. My course in Computer Games Development at UL was extremely relevant to the industry I have become part of. I learned many skills that are required for my job, so that every day, I use the knowledge gained from the course. The internship I did as part of the Co-Op program was invaluable and helped me to secure a job after graduation. Having work experience before graduating sets you apart from other candidates competing for the same job.
Ryan is currently employed as a Junior Network Programmer with Ubisoft in Montpellier, France.
Daniel Keohane
I have always loved playing video games, but I was also extremely interested in how they were made. I looked at some of the topics covered in this course and felt it was the perfect option for me. This degree programme will teach you about software engineering, with a strong leaning towards games development. We learn about games-related subjects like computer graphics and AI, while still covering generic software modules like Object Oriented Development and Software Architectures.
I really enjoy my course - it has provided me with a number of opportunities to enter programming competitions around the country which are huge fun. Gamesfleadh is held every year and comprises of a number of programming-related competitions, i.e. Robocode where contestants must develop an AI system for a virtual battle bot using the Java programming language to compete against other battle bots.
For my Co-op work placement, I went to DemonWare in Dublin. DemonWare specialises in online software services for some of the top game developer studios in the world, powering some of the most popular video game titles. I worked for the Call of Duty team; my tasks involved developing features for the upcoming Call of Duty title and bug-fixing issues in existing titles. Through my work placement, I gained a wealth of hands-on experience and developed my knowledge of Python, C++ and Git. This work placement at Demonware has been invaluable and is one of my strongest selling points when it comes to applying for any graduate position. While my development work was on the Call of Duty titles, I am credited in: Call of Duty: Ghosts, Diablo 3 and Skylanders: Swap Force
