Immersive Computing BSc(Hons)
Gain experience in software engineering, computer science and immersive media research methods.
Course overview
New immersive realities, data-rich and informed interactions, automations and ever-more connected clouds are shaping the way the world operates and how people interact with each other – computer science underpins it all.
You’ll be taught by experts from the Games Academy and the Cornwall Business School, to help you become a daring computer scientist capable of leveraging scientific principles and cutting-edge technology to create new and compelling products and services.
You will
- Get practical hands-on experience, immersing yourself in computer programming and software engineering to build your own software
- Work on complex real-world problems set in partnership with industry and explore a range of market-led incubation opportunities identified by our RealWORKS employability team
- Advance your knowledge of computer science and computing technologies in a way that enables you to incorporate cutting-edge advances into the digital products and services you create
- Leverage user-centred design thinking in your system development lifecycles, taking advantage of our research strengths in this area
- Collaborate in multidisciplinary Agile teams to realise projects with real commercial potential
The Integrated Foundation Year pathway for this course is new for entry year 2022 and subject to validation.
Course details
On this Immersive Computing degree, you'll have the opportunity to gain a BSc(Hons) degree over three years or the option to study Immersive Computing BSc(Hons) with an Integrated Foundation Year.
You'll gain practical experience in software engineering, computer science, and immersive media research methods. We'll cover development pipelines like Agile with Scrum, and build your specialist knowledge of novel and emerging immersive technologies used across the spectrum of extended reality (XR) applications.
You'll learn the basics of computing, programming and computer technology, and the pipelines and processes used in the industry. We'll support complete beginners as we go through the standards for collaborative software development, helping you apply what you've learned to a small team-based design and development project.
Modules
Development Principles
Principles of Computing
Creative Computing
Multidisciplinary Development Practice
Individual Creative Computing Project
Along with a team of multi-skilled collaborators, you'll integrate AR, VR or MR into a year-long 'world creation' project alongside game developers. You'll also grow your core computing skills in immersive technology.
We'll cover languages like Java and JavaScript, place more emphasis on C++, and teach you to develop for equipment like Microsoft HoloLens and HTC Vive.
Modules
World Creation Project: Pre-Production
Mathematics for 3D Worlds & Simulations
Specialisms in Creative Computing
World Creation Project: Production
Developing Specialist VR Practice
We'll further explore the industry, and help you prepare for your future as an immersive technology developer. You'll take on an individual research project in novel and emerging technology, and a year-long team project combining collective innovation and enterprise. At the end of the year, you'll pitch your project to industry professionals as part of our annual Show and Tell day.
Alongside this, you'll study advanced topics in immersive experience design, and learn statistical computing for audience and experience analysis in R. You'll also set up a portfolio website using HTML and CSS.
Modules
Major VR Development Project: Pre-Production
Research & Development: Practice
Major VR Development Project: Production
Research & Development: Dissertation
Why study an Integrated Foundation Year route?
If you’re taking on a new subject that you haven’t studied in depth before, have been out of education for a while or have a non-standard educational background then an Integrated Foundation Year degree may be the right choice for you. It is a four-year degree with an Integrated Foundation Year to start, which allows you to explore the primary elements of your subject before progressing on to the remaining three years of the BSc(Hons) degree.
What you'll study in your Foundation year
If you choose this pathway, you'll study five core modules in your Foundation year. These are all designed to help you explore the foundational elements of your subject. You'll gain relevant technical skills, learn to experiment and take risks, develop an understanding of professional practice, have opportunities to work across disciplines and collaborate with other students on live project briefs.
Modules
Explore
You'll begin your foundation year by working collaboratively with others to explore themes of the future. You'll take risks, experiment through play and be supported to break through barriers.
Technique
You'll take subject-specific workshops and develop essential technical and practical skills in your area of study. You'll also enhance your analytical and organisational abilities.
Apply
You'll work with your peer group to think beyond discipline by addressing a societal or global issue. You'll then showcase your work to your peers and deliver and accompanying evaluation of your process.
Industry
You'll enhance your creative and practical skills in your subject specialism by responding to typical industry briefs, underpinned by focused research and experiments. You'll also gain industry insights through guest lectures and workshops.
Launch
You'll develop your unique identity in your specialism through the production of a self-initiated body of work. Your final project will be the bridge to your next year, fully supported by evaluative reviews and critical analysis of the work you have created.
After the Foundation year, you progress into Year One of the full three-year degree, equipped with a deeper knowledge of your subject, a clear understanding of your strengths, and develop a practical and technical skillset and the confidence to excel in your chosen subject.
The Integrated Foundation Year pathway for this course is new for entry year 2022 and subject to validation.
The modules above are those being studied by our students, or proposed new ones. Programme structures and modules can change as part of our curriculum enhancement and review processes. If a certain module is important to you, please discuss it with the Course Leader.
From module information to course aims and assessment criteria, discover the full course details
We are making changes to our curriculum framework for courses starting in 2022. Modest amendments to our course module structure will provide you with new opportunities to collaborate and co-create with students from across disciplines during your studies.
This course page will be updated when these changes have been finalised and applicants will be notified.
How you'll learn
The course is built around collaborative team projects, industry speakers, technical demonstrations, crit sessions and project supervision. You'll also learn through lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and studio work. Your tutors will support your individual and team projects with weekly supervision meetings, and help you develop self-evaluation skills.
At Falmouth, we use a 'digitally enhanced learning & teaching' approach. Your experience will always be predominantly in-person, including seminars, tutorials and studio teaching, with some, more targeted elements, being online either live (synchronous) or pre-recorded (asynchronous). You can read more here.
How you'll spend your time
Year | Timetabled teaching and learning activity | Guided independent study |
|---|---|---|
Integrated Foundation Year (optional) | ||
1 | 34% | 66% |
2 | 33% | 67% |
3 | 33% | 67% |
How you'll be assessed
Year | Written exams | Practical exams | Coursework |
|---|---|---|---|
Integrated Foundation Year (optional) | 0% | 0% | 100% |
1 | 0% | 0% | 100% |
2 | 0% | 0% | 100% |
3 | 0% | 0% | 100% |
The above percentages relate to 2019/2020 data.
Assessment methods
- Foundation year assessments are 100% coursework based
- Coursework is the only form of assessment.
- You'll be continually assessed on your projects, portfolios of specialist work, and insights.
Staff
You'll learn from immersive technology scholars and researchers, game designers, and other industry professionals. Each tutor and mentor brings unique experience from companies like Sony Computer Entertainment, Square Enix, Creative Assembly, Bizarre Creations, Lionhead Studios, Supermassive Games, and Blitz Games.
Some members of staff only teach on specific modules, and your course might not feature every staff member who teaches on the course.
Dr Michael Scott
Head of Computing and Associate Professor of Computer Science Education
Dr Michael Scott is the Head of Computing and Associate Professor of Computer Science Educ...
Dr Edward Powley
Associate Professor
Edward Powley is an associate professor in the Games Academy. His research interests as a membe...
Brian McDonald
Senior Lecturer Digital Games
Brian McDonald is a senior lecturer on the BA(Hons) Game Development and BSc(Hons) Computing fo...
John Speakman
Research Student Teaching Associate
John Speakman is a Research Student Teaching Associate with the Games Academy. He joined Falmouth Un...
Andy Smith
Technical Manager/Technical Tutor
Andy joined Falmouth University in 2013 after completing his undergraduate studies in Communication ...
Tim Phillips
Lecturer
Tim joined Falmouth University in 2018 as a game designer in the computational creativity research g...
Facilities
- Large studio equipped with state-of-the-art game development machines.
- Specialised computing hardware for game development, deep learning projects, motion capture and immersive experiences.
- Standard packages used in software development for the games and visual effects industries, including Adobe and Autodesk suites.
- Attached lab committed to staying at the cutting edge - featuring AR/VR/MR (XR) equipment including HoloLens, HoloLens 2 and Oculus Quest 2.
- Xsens MVN Awinda motion capture suits.
- Attached lab with access to PS4 Development and Testing kits.
- Access to a variety of game engines including Unity and Unreal.
- Studios open late during term time.
- Access to free software via Microsoft Imagine.
Games Academy Facilities
Our Games Academy offers professional-standard studios, a dedicated craft room, breakout spaces, and...
Library Facilities
Offering extensive collections, our two libraries provide a wealth of digital resources, magazines, ...
Sports Centre
Our Sports Centre, on Penryn Campus, includes a spacious gym with up to 90 of the latest, new statio...
How to apply
Apply via UCAS
Ready to join us? You can apply for September 2022 through Clearing or for September 2023 through UCAS Apply and Track. You'll need to reference the course and University code (F33).
Applying as an international student?
International students can apply for a course through UCAS, via an agent or directly with the university. For more information about how to apply as an international student, visit our International applications page.
| Course route | UCAS code |
|---|---|
| Immersive Computing BSc(Hons) three year degree | I630 |
| Immersive Computing BSc(Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year | FY06 |
Application advice & interview information
Go to ToolkitWe consider all applications on their own individual merit and potential. We invite all applicants to an interview day or audition to give them the opportunity to demonstrate this along with what inspires and motivates them in their field. Applicants will also be able to show their portfolio or give a performance depending on the course. We welcome applications from all subject backgrounds, whether you’ve specialised in STEM, the arts or humanities.
| Course route | Entry requirements |
|---|---|
| BA/BSc(Hons) three year degree | 104 – 120 UCAS Tariff points |
| BA/BSc(Hons) four year degree with Integrated Foundation Year | 80 – 120 UCAS Tariff points |
UCAS Tariff points will primarily be from Level 3 qualifications such as but not limited to A-levels, T Levels, a BTEC/UAL Extended Diploma or a Foundation Diploma.
For applicants whose first language is English we require you to have or be working towards GCSE English Language Grade 4 (C), or equivalent.
If English is not your first language you will need to meet the same standard which is equivalent to the IELTS Academic 6.0 overall score, with at least 5.5 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. We accept a range of in country equivalencies and approved tests.
If you need a student visa to study in the UK, you'll need to take a recognised language test that is approved and vouched for by the University. You can read our English Language Requirements for more information.
For starting your studies in 2022
UK applications: 26 January 2022 (for equal consideration)
Applications after the 26 January will be considered on a first-come, first-served as long as there are places available. Apply for this course now.
For starting your studies in 2023
UK applications: 25 January 2023 (for equal consideration)
Applications after the 25 January will be considered on a first-come, first-served as long as there are places available. Apply for this course now.
International fee payers
International fee payers can apply throughout the year. But we recommend applying as early as possible, to make time for visa and travel arrangements.
What we're looking for
We want someone who:
- Is passionate about immersive technologies
- Aspires to work as a programmer or technology specialist
- Wants to develop immersive experiences in multidisciplinary teams in a studio mirroring the industry
- Enthusiastically follows current virtual reality and mixed reality technologies
- Likes to experiment and tinker with code and technology
- Enjoys finding out how things work
- Is comfortable with maths and problem solving
Similar courses
Data Science BSc(Hons)
Give yourself the professional edge with a course that delivers an impressive combination of technic...
Game Animation BA(Hons)
Join a community of people who have a passion for games. From day one, you’ll work as you would wi...
Computer Science BSc(Hons)
New immersive realities, data-rich and informed interactions, automations and ever-more connected cl...
Esports & Livestreaming BA(Hons)
Immerse yourself in Esports culture on this degree, which offers a unique opportunity to be at the f...
Robotics BSc(Hons)
Explore the world of artificial intelligence and create interactive robots that respond to the chall...
Game Development BA(Hons)
Join a community of people who have a passion for games. From day one, you’ll work as you would wi...
Game Art BA(Hons)
Develop your creative capabilities while honing the skills you’ll need to make it as a successful ...
Computing for Games BSc(Hons)
Master the skills needed to shape the games of the future by studying games through the lens of comp...
