Creative Computing (Web Technologies)

We teach you core skills essential to creative computing and digital creativity more widely, including coding, web app deployment and asset creation. 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
Develop core skills. Start your journey through Creative Computing by mastering the basics of computing and digital creativity. You'll learn how to code through modules that uncover the fundamentals of programming and web development. Specific modules on creative problem solving, experience design and coding for the visual arts enrich your understanding of how creativity and technology collide. Weekly workshops introduce essential tools and software for building digital experiences and asset creation. You'll also explore how to create engaging narratives for digital platforms.

Year two
Begin to specialise. Learn the principles of responsive web design and smartphone app development, deploying a range of tools and creative strategies that underpin compelling online experiences. Your web specific learning is accompanied by modules that advance your understanding of programming to include object-oriented techniques, and working with real time data. You'll also experiment with emerging technologies and collaborate with industry partners on live briefs as you further investigate the field of creative computing.

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 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’ll be taught through practical workshops and project-based learning. These sessions are supported by individual and team tutorials throughout your Creative Computing course. The practical nature of the course offers you the time and freedom to try new ideas, develop new skills and take a deep dive into topics of interest.

A network of visiting speakers and mentors keeps you in touch with the tech and creative sectors, while our technical demonstrators support you in developing new skills.

To find out more about how we teach and how you'll learn, please read our Learning and Teaching Delivery Statement.

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.

As part of your degree, you could study abroad on a placement at one of Bath Spa’s partner universities.

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.

If you’re a full-time undergraduate student starting your first year at Bath Spa University, you can apply for the Certificate in Global Citizenship, which you’ll study alongside your degree.

You’ll gain global awareness and add an international dimension to your student experience, and funding is available. On successful completion of the programme, you’ll be awarded a Certificate in Global Citizenship. This is in addition to your degree; it doesn’t change your degree title or results.

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
• Support from the ASk (Academic Skills) team
• If English is not your first language, the English Language Unit can support with your English language skills

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