Visual Effects for Games and Real-Time Media - BSc

Abertay University

**Combine strong technical expertise in visual effects (VFX) with game programming and creative design skills. Learn to develop visual and audio effects for real-time media such as games, film, TV, immersive experiences and more.** Abertay is **Europe's** **TOP University for video game design** (Princeton Review 2026) and **Scotland’s TOP Modern University for Student Satisfaction** (The Complete University Guide 2027 and The Times Good University Guide 2026.)Our degree is perfect for aspiring VFX artists who want to develop technical expertise and imaginative storytelling skills. **Unlike other VFX degrees, this course focuses on real-time methods**. That means creating effects that you can see, hear and feel, using professional software like Houdini and game engines such as Unreal Engine, alongside other programming and software tools.**Leading game developers and production companies**You’ll gain hands-on experience through studio collaborations, developing a work portfolio that mirrors professional practice and pipelines. We work closely with companies such as Sony, Microsoft, Epic Games, Vicon, Industrial Light and Magic, Wild Child Animation and more.**Industry-standard tools from day one**From day one you’ll learn using the professional tools you'll use in the workplace, exploring **topics such as game development, cinematography, graphics programming, audio design and real-time production techniques.**This mixture of industry toolsets and contacts, alongside real-world projects, helps you gain the skillset employers are looking for.**You'll study using the tools, workflows and expectations of modern, real-time studios.** Which gives you a valuable head start, as **you'll graduate knowing how to use the same professional tools** you'll rely on throughout your careerThis means working with software like Houdini, which is widely used to develop VFX and 3D animation. (We are **Scotland’s first Houdini Certified School Partner**.)Alongside this, you’ll work with **game engines like Unity**, and learn to build projects for various platforms, from PC to games consoles to Mixed Reality.

Faculty of Design, Informatics and Business