Games Programming (with Foundation Year)

The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

Featuring a reduced tuition fee in the first year, our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

Course Modules

Stage 1a:
• Transition to University – Learning to Learn (compulsory)
• Investigating Your Subject (compulsory)
• Foundations in Physical Sciences (compulsory)
• Negotiated Learning Project (compulsory)

Stage 1b:
• Fundamentals of Programming (compulsory)
• Programming for Games Engines (compulsory)
• Database Design for Computer Games (compulsory)
• Group Game Project: Fundamentals (compulsory)
• Programming 2D Computer Games (compulsory)
• Computer Games Architecture and Optimisation (compulsory)

Stage 2:
• Indie Games Development (compulsory)
• Native Programming and Compilation (compulsory)
• Mathematics for Computer Games (compulsory)
• 2D Graphics Programming for Computer Games (compulsory)
• Programming 3D Computer Games (compulsory)
• Group Game Project: Advanced (compulsory)

Stage 3:
• Games Dissertation (compulsory)
• Simulation and Dynamics (compulsory)
• AI for Computer Games (compulsory)
• 3D Graphics Progamming for Computer Games (compulsory)
• Programming Multiplayer Computer Games (compulsory)
• Group Game Project: Industry Practice (compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 2025 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.