Game Programming at University - Which one?

DiabloVodkaShot

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Feb 20, 2009
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Hey guys,

I am wanting to reach out to all the programmers in the community that either do it for a living or have a hell of a lot of knowledge on the matter, i am looking to go to university to study games programming and i cannot make my decision up between these three university's so i will post there name and few details and maybe get some advice from you guys.

P.s i have offers from all of these.

SAE INSTITUTION ( private university) Link:
http://london.sae.edu/en-gb/course/8603/Games_Programming_-_BSc(Hons)_Games_Programming_-_Degree
This is probably my favorite option however it is a difficult one because it requires me to pay 2000£ per year towards the course out of my own pocket and does not offer accommodation(greater london(200-300 pw)), however its only for 2 years and has the same of the other courses (BSC(Hons)).

Course Content:
Code:
[COLOR=#852626][FONT=Helvetica][B]Games 401
[/B][/FONT][/COLOR]In this module, students are introduced to C++ object-oriented programming, and the C# language, to make text-base and 2D graphical games. Students learn how to effectively use the features of graphics packages to create graphical assets for games. Principles of 3D modelling are also covered, and principles of communication such as essays and presentations.
Games 402
Games 402 covers 2D games programming using C++. In Game Systems Design, students are taught how to apply object oriented design techniques to games, including the use of Design Patterns. In Data Structures and Algorithms, students learn about classic abstract data types such as lists, trees, stacks and queues. Introduction to Game Design covers fundamental concepts of game design.
Games 403
Games 403 covers writing 3D games using a 3D graphics API. Maths for Games Programming covers the mathematics underpinning 3D games, such as vectors, matrices, planes, quaternions, the view frustum, and octrees. Computer Hardware and Operating Systems teaches students low-level concepts of digital electronics and operating systems. In Game Level Design, students learn principles and practice of level design.
Games 501
This module is the culmination of the first three modules of this programme in the realisation of a technical project. It requires students to plan, manage and complete a technical work within a specialised area of Games Programming, resulting in a full 3D 
game.502: Creative Media Practice
This module aims to develop discipline specific knowledge and skills to more sophisticated conceptual and technical levels through the realisation and evaluation of advanced games programming applications. Mathematical concepts are treated in greater depth, broadening an appreciation of the underlying constructs of programming and computation. 
Students are expected to initiate research and development in areas of mathematical and graphical simulation. Topics covered include research, industry issues, modern graphics APIs, shader programming, advanced mathematical techniques such as complex numbers and quaternions as well as an introduction to artificial intelligence for games programming.
Games 601: Advanced Games Programming Practice
This module aims to develop discipline specific knowledge and skills to more sophisticated conceptual and technical levels through the realisation and evaluation of an advanced games programming application. In this module, students will take a more in-depth look at artificial intelligence, are introduced to networking, optimisation, software engineering and game audio.
620: Major Project (BSc)
This module is the culmination of the degree programme, enabling students to demonstrate the full range of their technical, scientific and academic skills. The major project is self-generated and may take one of many different forms. 

[FONT=Helvetica]The project is intended to demonstrate a range of advanced skills in accordance with the requirements of a substantial Bachelor of Science project. Through successful completion the student will also exhibit their capacity to conduct independent research and manage a large-scale venture.[/FONT]
Kingston and Demonfort
I like both of these universities because i don't have to pay out my back pocket just yet i can student finance it etc... so there is a little less pressure however its a 4 year course with a placement year at a big firm E.G Sony.

Kingston Course Details whats on it at bottom of page: http://www.kingston.ac.uk/undergraduate-course/computer-science-games-programming-2013/

Demonfort Course Details at bottom of page click the drop down. http://www.dmu.ac.uk/study/courses/undergraduate-courses/computer-games-programming.aspx

I know you may be thinking why am i posting here well i just need extra advise from people either in industry or know a lot about the language and can advise which is the best option to get a job and know a lot.
 

02goswej

Golden Oldie
Golden Oldie
Jul 12, 2004
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Hey.

Although C# is an excellent language, if you're looking to be doing game programming in the commercial environment you want a course that can teach you either a managed language such as C# or Java but ensure you are aware of any optimizations which can be performed at the lower level, whether this is memory management or just simple optimizations (the equivalent of memory alignment etc.)

Personally I would look for a course which includes C and/or C++, since this is still the primary language for game programming. C++ is unbeatable when it comes to speed of execution and flexibility in optimizations (if done properly...often is not).

To conclude if you're looking for a course which can teach you how to make a game, easily with rapid implementation then I'd suggest a managed environment (as previously mentioned, C# and Java are great. C# probably more with the XNA framework). If you want to be a good programmer, get paid more but also be challenged a lot more, then go to the realms of unmanaged languages such as C and C++ (It will be C++ in all likelihood if you're doing games programming).

Hope that helped.