CSD1401 Software Engineering Project 1 (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): None
This class presents an overview of the way the game development industry works and a history of game development. It will expose students to the positions and job responsibilities that each member of a game development team has, along with the industry requirements for concept pitches, design documents and schedules. It will also introduce sprite animation, object motion, and input processing, which students will use in the creation of a game of their own design.
CSD1451 Software Engineering Project 2 (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD1401, CSD1121
This project focuses on the creation of a simple game or simulation. Students will work together on teams of three or four members. All projects must be written entirely in C (C++ is also allowed) and cannot use external libraries or middleware of any kind (except those provided by the instructor). Topics include effective team communication, planning, documentation, debugging, source control, testing, and iterative software development techniques.
CSD2401 Software Engineering Project 3 (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD1130, CSD1171, CSD1451
This project is divided into two trimesters and focuses on the creation of a simple real-time game or simulation with 2D graphics (3D games are not allowed, unless on special permissions). Students will work together on teams with average of five/six members to implement technical features such as audio effects, music playback, pattern movement, simple artificial intelligence, same-machine multiplayer
(networking is not allowed, unless on special permission), particle systems, scrolling, and simple physics. All projects must be written with a core of C++ code and cannot use middleware such as pre-existing physics engines, networking engines, AI, etc. Additional topics may include basic software architecture, essential development practices, fundamentals of team dynamics, and task prioritization methods.
CSD2451 Software Engineering Project 4 (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD2400
In this class, students work to complete and polish the projects they began in CSD2400. Additional topics may include intermediate software architecture, advanced debugging techniques, bug tracking, formal playtesting, game pacing and game balance. CSD2511 Introduction to Game Design (6 credits) Prerequisite(s): None This is an introduction module to game design theory and the process of designing games. Topics may include design principles, writing rules, playtesting, game state, randomness, hidden information, and game balance.
CSD2513 System Design Methods (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD1121, CSD2511
This module focuses on how to analyze and simulate
game systems. Topics may include system analysis, system simulation, system balancing, combat systems, and economic systems.
CSD2541 Level Design (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD1121, CSD2513
This module introduces the basic principles of level and encounter design. It focuses on the design of spatial environments, player guidance techniques, and controlling pacing through encounter frequency and variety.
CSD3401 Software Engineering Project 5 (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD2451, CSD2151 or CSD2541
This module is the first trimester of a two-trimester project that will be continued in CSD3451. It focuses on the creation of a polished, professional-quality, real-time game or simulation, and provides the opportunity to work together on cross-discipline teams of three or more members, implementing the technical features needed for the project. This first trimester focuses on pre-production to ensure the technology, tools, design, art, audio, and team are ready for full production in the following trimester.
CSD3451 Software Engineering Project 6 (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD3401
In this module, students work to complete the projects they began in CSD3401. This second trimester focuses on production to bring the project to the point where the target audience finds it engaging. Furthermore, techniques are explored for creating effective resumes, interviewing, and pursuing internships.
CSD3516 Technical Design Methods (6 credits)
Prerequisite(s): CSD2513, CSD2541
This module focuses on designing and implementing digital game prototypes, with an emphasis on integrating mechanics, controls, and camera. Additional topics include building tension to create engagement and implementing player feedback techniques
CSD4401 Capstone Project (10 credits)
Prerequisite (s): CSD3451
The capstone project is a major, year-long individual project that is to be undertaken by a student that utilises the technical capabilities, professional skills, and academic knowledge obtained during the degree programme. The project must be of reasonable complexity and industry relevance, and should allow scope for the student to demonstrate the various aspects of software engineering / information security.
CSD4902 Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP) (30 credits)
CSD4902A IWSP (Career Skills) Prerequisite (s): None
CSD4902B IWSP (Work Attachment) Prerequisite (s): CSD4902B, CSD3451
The Integrated Work Study Programme (IWSP) is an integral and compulsory applied learning component, which provides students with the opportunity to integrate what they have learnt in the classroom with what is practised in the real world, and vice versa. It comprises two integrative parts: i) work and ii) study. The work component refers to a work attachment that students undergo in various organisations, whereas the study component refers to the integration of knowledge and practice, as well as the development and the application of innovation skills. The study component also includes the ongoing development of career skills. The IWSP is a key learning platform that contributes to the inculcation of the SIT-DNA in every student. The IWSP consists of 2 parts:
- IWSP (Career Skills)
- IWSP (Work Attachment) IWSP (Career Skills) is a prerequisite requirement for IWSP (Work Attachment). Students must complete and pass IWSP (Career Skills) before they are allowed to embark on IWSP application for the work attachment.