Newcastle University signing
Joins UK developer trade body TIGA, with three courses on offer to budding game makers.
TIGA, the trade association representing the UK games industry, today announced Newcastle University as its newest member.
Newcastle University currently offers three courses for students interested in pursuing a career in the video games industry:
Short Advanced Masters in Computer Game Engineering MSc (1 year)
Computing Science (Games and Virtual Environments) BSc Honours (3 years)
Computing Science with Industrial Placement (Games and Virtual Environments) BSc Honours (4 years)
The flagship Masters programme is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to develop computer game software and provides an international perspective on advancements in computer game development. The course focuses on the range of technical skills required by the computer game industry, including an understanding of advanced programming techniques, graphics, game engine technologies and teamwork.
Graham Morgan, Lecturer of the Masters degree stated: Our focus when designing this course was that it should prepare students to work in the computer game industry. To achieve this we consulted widely with industry figures from companies such as Bizarre Creations, Midway, Sony Liverpool, Travellers Tales, Eutechnyx and Media Molecule.
On joining TIGA Morgan added: We are joining TIGA for three reasons: Firstly, we wholeheartedly support TIGAs work in raising the profile of the UK games industry to Government and among other stakeholders including the academic world. In our view, the video games industry IS this countrys IT industry, and it requires greater recognition and support from Government.
Secondly, it is important we continue to build strong links with industry to ensure our courses maintain a standard of excellence and also to ensure our students have the best possible access to advice and employment opportunities when they graduate. Thirdly we are keen to discuss potential R&D projects with the development community.
Richard Wilson TIGA CEO stated: TIGA is committed to strengthening the links between academia and industry as can be seen by the recently launched Education Exchange service which is one of the Play Together initiatives. Our industry can only thrive if it has access to a steady stream of highly talented people who possess the skills that industry needs and I believe this can only be achieved with greater collaboration and input from industry. Newcastle University sets a fantastic example in this regard and we look forward to working closely with them on this and other programs.
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