COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc (Hons) Games Development and Production program at Heriot-Watt University provides students with a comprehensive and structured pathway to becoming skilled game developers and producers. In the first year, students build foundational knowledge in software development, computer systems, web design, interaction design, and games introduction, alongside core mathematical and logical skills. The second year expands on these fundamentals with courses in data structures, algorithms, programming languages, games engines, database management, and user-centred experimental design, preparing students for more advanced technical and design challenges. In the third year, students focus on software engineering, artificial intelligence, computer graphics, operating systems, networking, professional development, and games prototyping, further integrating practical and theoretical skills in preparation for real-world game development. The fourth and final year emphasizes research, project management, and group-based game development through the Game Development Group Project, alongside advanced modules such as design and implementation, project testing and presentation, distributed and parallel technologies, and advanced human-computer interaction. Optional modules in this year include biologically inspired computation, software engineering methods, network security, intelligent robotics, and data mining and machine learning, allowing students to tailor their learning to specific interests. Across all four years, the program combines technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and professional practice to prepare graduates for careers across the game development industry and related fields.