University of Bradford

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.Sc. Artificial Intelligence for Games

Format: Campus

Program Description:

On this course you will learn advanced techniques in Artificial Intelligence (AI), to create a range of artificial gameplaying
agents and non-player characters for a wide variety of games, from chess through to complex first-person and real-time
strategy and multiplayer games.

The course will cover advanced topics in machine learning, genetic and evolutionary algorithms, and neural networks.
Options during the course will allow you to study areas such as computer graphics and animation, sound, software engineering and project management.
The course is designed for students with an enthusiasm for AI who prefer a hands-on course where your ideas can be
implemented in a range of game environments, and for those with an enthusiasm for computer games aiming to get into AI
design and development. You will be expected to have prior knowledge of programming skills and an enthusiasm for games,
but knowledge of AI is not required.

Our graduates have skills that make them well suited to careers in the computer games industry, and to AI jobs in other areas
such as finance, management and engineering, and for further AI research through to PhD.

Special Features:
• The course is the first course of its kind in the world
• It has strong links with the UK games industry and games
Artificial Intelligence research, including prize sponsorship from
Microsoft and scholarships for exceptional students from the
Game Republic Academy
• Our partnership with Game Republic and our programme of
visiting speakers from industry ensure that you are up to date
with the latest developments and techniques in the games
industry, as well as giving you the opportunity to make contacts
with potential future employers

Collaborative Partners:
Partnership with Game Republic.

Modules 2011/12:
(C) = Core, (O) = Option
Stage 1 60 Credits (2 x Core Modules and 1 x Option Module):
• Advanced Software Development (20 Credits) (C)
• Artificial Intelligence for Games (20 Credits) (C)
• Computer Animation and Special Effects (20 Credits) (O)
• Concurrent and Distributed Systems (20 Credits) (O)
• Software Project Management (20 Credits) (O)
Stage 2 60 Credits (2 x Core Modules and 1 x Option Module):
• Artificial Intelligence for Games II (20 Credits) (C)
• Interactive Systems and Video Games Development (20 Credits) (C)
• Advanced Character Animation (20 Credits) (O)
• Artificial Intelligence with Applications (20 Credits) (O)
Stage 3:
• Dissertation (60 Credits) (C)

Accreditation:

A full Master of Science programme.

Eligibility Requirements:

• A good understanding of the principles and practice of writing computer programs prior to entry
2:2 or above in a subject:
• Containing a significant component in
Computing; OR
• Other than Computing, but can demonstrate
sufficient relevant experience in Computing;
and relevant industrial experience (e.g.
obtained through substantial experience of
working in the games or software industry or
through industrial experience of other relevant
programming work) that will be assessed via a
CV and references
Two-year full-time course options:
• Students who do not quite meet our normal entry criteria, such as those on the three-year Chinese
diploma, or those who in the opinion of the admissions team would benefit from an additional
year of study, may be offered a place on an alternative two-year full-time MSc programme

International Student Requirements:

See Eligibilty Requirements

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No