Creative Computing (Web Technologies)

We teach you core skills essential to creative computing and digital creativity more widely, including coding (C++, Python), web app deployment (HTML5, JavaScript, PHP) and asset creation (Adobe, Autodesk). These technical elements are complemented by critical insights into the computing industry from sector specialists.

Web Technologies pathway modules engage the ideation and prototype production process, from front end and server-side scripting to effective documentation and product testing. Here you not only learn the tools and design concepts typical of web development today, but also experiment with the technologies and creative strategies that are poised to transform the web of tomorrow.

Year one
Master the basics. You start your journey through Creative Computing (Web Technologies) by developing key skills in computing and digital design. We provide a primer to computer science, and probe the social and ethical consequences that are distinct to the digital age. Weekly tech workshops expose you to the basics of web development and procedural programming. Modules on creative problem solving, interface design and coding for the visual arts enrich your understanding of how creativity and computing collide.

Year two
Begin to specialise. Learn the principles of responsive web design and Android app development, deploying a range of tools and creative strategies that underpin compelling online experiences. Elective modules provide space to learn the basics of animation or game development, interface with creative tech companies and experiment with some of the latest consumer grade interactive devices.

Year three
Kick-start your career. You'll deploy client and server-side scripting languages to create web apps, while exploring how emerging concepts such as machine learning and the Internet of Things can open up new possibilities for web creativity. Modules such as Physical Computing and Creative Incubator help you expand your coding skill set, while introducing strategies for securing funding within the tech sector. One third of your time is spent developing a major digital artefact that serves as the centrepiece of a compelling, industry-focused creative portfolio.

Creative Computing (Web Technologies) is almost entirely coursework assessed. You deliver a varied and balanced collection of artefacts including prototype software, experiment portfolios, digital interfaces, interactive stories and web apps. Project work is supported by contextual essays, reflective commentaries, sketchbooks, reports, pitches, presentations, debates and b/vlogs.

You learn through creative workshops, technical labs, seminars and project drop-ins. These sessions are supported by individual and team tutorials that take place across the degree programme.

A network of visiting speakers and mentors keep you up to date with developments in the tech and creative sectors, while technical demonstrators reinforce the ‘skills training’ aspects of your learning.

This optional placement year provides you with the opportunity to identify, apply for and secure professional experience, normally comprising one to three placements over a minimum of nine months. Successful completion of this module will demonstrate your ability to secure and sustain graduate-level employment.

By completing the module, you'll be entitled to the addition of 'with Professional Placement Year' to your degree title.

Before your Professional Placement Year, you'll work to secure your placement, constructing a development plan with your module leader and your placement coordinator from our Careers and Employability team.

On your return to University for your final year, you'll submit your Placement Portfolio, detailing your development on your placement.

You’ll have the opportunity to study in a wide range of locations around the world. Our students have completed exchange programmes in a variety of countries including Spain, Sweden and the USA.

Our Creative Computing students have produced work for companies including the IBM Innovation Lab, Aardman, Complete Control, Opposable VR and Boomtown Festival.

Past field trips have included creative industry festivals such as the London Games Festival, Now Play This and WASD.

Recent graduates of Creative Computing are working at Rockstar Games, Codemasters, Complete Control, Dyson, Rocketmakers, Aerian, Network N and more.

The diverse nature of Creative Computing at Bath Spa opens up a wide range of employment opportunities in both the creative and tech sectors. Possible roles include:

• Creative Technologist
• Games Developer
• Web Developer
• Software Developer
• Digital Animator
• Digital 3D Design
• UX Designer
• Creative Producer
• Creative Tech Research and Development Associate

You may also decide to pursue further study or train to teach with a PGCE.

As a BSc Creative Computing student, you'll have access to our:

• Commons building
  You're taught within the cutting-edge Commons building, situated at the heart of our stunning Newton Park campus.
• High-end computing spaces, populated with dedicated PCs and access to 3D printers, VR kit and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
• Virtual Learning Environment
• Newton Park library
• Free access to software, creative, design and business skills courses via LinkedIn Learning
• Writing and Learning Centre
• English Language Unit

You can also hire out equipment using SISO, Bath Spa University’s free equipment loan service.