You will study the modules presented in Year 1 of the Common Entry route to Computer Games Development. The emphasis in Year 1 is on programming, an appreciation of its basis, and the study of the physical machine on which programs run. In the second year, and in the first semester of third year, the programme will extend your knowledge of general software development, while other modules are directly relevant to game development. In semester two of year three, you will have an eight month cooperative education placement, either in Ireland or abroad, where you will get the opportunity to apply the knowledge you have learned, increase your awareness of the computer games work place and develop your social and business skills. In the fourth year, you will undertake a significant independent project in the area. Normally this will involve development of one or more software components of a computer game, or developing a complete game using existing software components. In addition, you will continue to deepen your knowledge of general software development and to acquire deeper expertise in specialised aspects of game related issues.

Applicants are required to hold at the time of enrolment the established Leaving Certificate (or an approved equivalent) with a minimum of six subjects which must include: Two H5 (Higher Level) grades and Four O6 (Ordinary Level) grades or four H7 (Higher Level) grades. Subjects must include Mathematics, Irish or another language, and English. In addition, applicants must hold a minimum grade O2/H6 in Mathematics. A Special Mathematics Examination will be offered at UL following the Leaving Certificate results for those students who did not achieve the Mathematics requirement. We welcome applications from mature students. Mature applicants must apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO) by 1 February.