16 Master of Science Programs in Computer Arts

You are expected to come from a technical background (Computer Science, Physics, Maths, Engineering) with an existing knowledge of programming and the course will build upon this, providing you with a combination of artistic sensibilities, problem-solving and technical skills, which can be applied to the role of technical director within the animation and games industries. Technical directors often have to work alongside computer animators and resolve technical problems either by configuring existing software tools or designing new tools.

During your year-long study, you will develop your programming and scripting skills, and become familiar with special techniques and tools associated with computer animation. These skills are assessed in a variety of projects you will undertake during the year. Emphasis is placed on the use of industry-standard hardware and software in the development of these techniques. Typical examples include the development of C++ programs to test new algorithms, the writing of shaders to support rendering, and the developing of scripts and tools to create new effects.... [-]

This course, one of a suite of digital media courses, enables you to study professional digital media practice in a micro-studio environment with a focus on the programming skills necessary for the field of games development. Through a student-centred project-based curriculum, you work as a games programmer to develop your specialist skills while working as part of an interdisciplinary team with students from across the full programme.

This 1-year course will help you develop excellent skills in 3D modelling and sculpting or computer games design theory and application.

The award has been designed along with our industry partners and delivers up-to-date content using industry standard software that meets current and future 3D games industry demands. It will allow you to develop and further your ability, building on knowledge and skills acquired in your first degree and expanding into areas related to computer games design.

It will enhance your abilities in research, problem-solving and management and you will apply knowledge and skills to solving complex design and 3D problems during your dissertation project. The award integrates current industry paradigms into both the assessment and research opportunities which aim to help you get into either the games industry or academia.... [-]

MSc in Games

The two-year MSc programme in Games provides you with technical and social science knowledge on how computer games work, how they are designed and how they have a social impact on us. You will work with some of the world’s leading games researchers, and you will have the opportunity to become a computer games expert yourself.

The ProgrammeComputer games can be a form of communication, a learning tool, a means of social interaction and a rehabilitation aid. The Games programme will give you insight into the medium and you will have the opportunity to create the computer games of the future yourself.The MSc in Games deals with computer games both on a theoretical and a practical level. You will study the cultural significance of computer games, how to contribute to the development of a computer game and how to adapt the commercial potential of games to other communication and media domains.The programme has an international perspective and is therefore taught in English.... [-]

The study branch consists of two closely related specializations, Computer Graphics, and Computer Game Development. The Computer Graphics specialization offers training in a wide range of visual sciences, including geometric modeling, rendering (image synthesis) as well as the basics of image analysis and computer vision.

Conditions for Admission

The goal of the admissions review process is to select from the pool of applicants those individuals who have shown the capability and diligence expected of Charles University students. To apply for our Computer Science or Mathematics Master's programs given in English you must:

This programme is entirely oriented towards current industrial needs, technology and practice and provides a direct route into the highly desirable creative industry. Our successful former students are working in London and for international companies in areas ranging from television graphics to architectural visualisation.

It covers 3D model building, texturing, lighting, rendering, procedural animation (cloth, hair, fur, dynamics), advanced compositing and high-definition digital effects. Although the thrust of the programme is towards high-end film special effects and animation, the standards and techniques you learn will allow you to work in numerous other areas of digital effects.... [-]

Develop your knowledge and understanding of the animation process, software tools, techniques and packages, and the technical aspects of working in a professional animation environment. The MSc programme offers invaluable experience of working to professional briefs and under the expert supervision of professional animators to prepare you for a career in the industry.

Competition is fierce in animation and visual effects and success depends on your concentration levels, constant practise and ability to grasp the essence and modern techniques of animation. Successful former students are now working in animation and animation layout roles for companies such as Sony Games and Framestore CFC on major titles in games, television and film.... [-]

Game Design and Production is a multidisciplinary major that tightly integrates students from different backgrounds. Students of the programme get to create and analyze games, experiment with new technologies and design approaches, and meet brilliant people with whom to build the future.

Game Design and Production is a multidisciplinary major that tightly integrates students from different backgrounds. Students of the programme get to create and analyze games, experiment with new technologies and design approaches, and meet brilliant people with whom to build the future. In addition to a deep understanding of games, graduates will have a portfolio of completed projects, which helps in getting into the games industry. The teaching staff includes both game industry professionals and game scholars.... [-]

Gaming and multimedia have assumed an important place in our society, giving rise to a booming industry with turnovers exceeding those of the movie industry and generating leaps in computer software and hardware development. The Master’s program in Game and Media Technology focuses on the technological aspects of gaming and multimedia in the context of computer science.

In the research program of gaming and simulation, you will explore:

It also incorporates such aspects as drama, style, and emotions, with a focus on the technical aspects. Simulating the physics, biology, and psychology of the real world and bringing it to life in multi-sensory simulations are major challenges you will explore in our dynamic program.... [-]

Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies provides an in-depth view of the fundamental character and development of games and play.

Expanding from entertainment to other areas of life, games have grown into a form of culture and human interaction that is a crucial part of our social life and current media landscape.

The programme is particularly targeted at the questions of analysis, design and application of games from the interconnected perspectives of games, game players, game developers and game cultures. It will give you the academic skills needed to analyse, observe and understand the developments in this field of study while also encouraging a more pragmatic involvement and hands-on attitude with games and playful design.... [-]

The MSc in Animation & VFX is a blend of creative and technical visual storytelling. We focus on teaching the professional production pipelines that you will utilise in this industry. You will engage with high-end production techniques and values, and you will create a narrative based film, showreel/breakdown reel, as part of your final expo. We also regard research, development and intellectual rigour very highly. You will investigate your practice, and reflect on your own creative journey through the duration of the course.

We have great connections to the animation, film, television, video-games and comics industries, and many of our graduates have gone on to work around the world, for some of the top studios and franchises. Other students have pursued further academic advancement, by continuing on to a PhD or work in education.... [-]

In the game design and development masters, students explore the entertainment technology landscape as well as other related areas. The program simultaneously covers the breadth of the game design and development landscape through study in topics such as computer graphics, game engines, interactive narrative, and game world design. The program is characterized by a clear focus on development, but also educates developers in the design process. The degree is intended specifically for students who aspire to hold careers within the professional games industry or a related field such as simulation, edutainment or visualization.

The program's curriculum consists of required courses, a choice of five advanced electives, and a capstone experience. This is a two-year, on-campus, cohort-based program in which students are admitted through a portfolio review process. During the second year, students form development teams that construct a working game engine and software title as the program capstone experience. This requirement includes both individual and group expectations. The capstone culminates in a defense before program faculty, as well as a public exhibition. Combined, these requirements provide a unique and comprehensive educational experience for individuals who aspire to a career in the game development industry.... [-]

The MSc in Digital Games brings together students from many backgrounds to create innovative and exciting digital games.

Students are encouraged to explore their personal approach to game creation by combining their game design education with either critical analysis or technology specializations. In all cases, students fully engage with the processes of game design and creation, as well as logistical concerns such as project and business management. The degree culminates in producing a completely developed digital game or a theory-based dissertation.

The programme is taught by experts from a variety of fields, providing students with diverse perspectives on game creation and criticism. As digital games continue to evolve, the programme will also expand to provide the skills and knowledge needed in the industry, independent development, and academic games research.... [-]

This programme studies in depth the principles of Web Design and imparts all necessary skills and knowledge needed to create successful, professional web designers and developers. Students learn how to design and develop high-quality websites, which are user-friendly, efficient and attractive.

Online and through Supported Open Learning.

MSc Games Development and Design is designed to build on students’ existing computer programming skills to provide the knowledge and skills to develop contemporary video games, using a variety of advanced tools and platforms, such as virtual reality.

Industry context is an important aspect of this programme, and students also study game design topics which are applicable to industry work and independent game creation, as well as research techniques appropriate for further postgraduate study. This is underpinned by the industry experience of our staff, many of which have either been employed in the games industry, or have current active connections with industry.

The course is informed by the work of staff who specialise in games, either with industry experience or from their research backgrounds in relevant areas. It is further supported by the Lincoln Games Research Network which connects staff with an interest in games across the University and beyond, providing a rich source of input and perspectives.... [-]