BA (Hons) Computer Games Design with Foundation​

Course Description

The BA (Hons) Computer Games Design with Foundation course offers an immersive journey into the world of games design, equipping students with the creative, technical, and collaborative skills needed to thrive in the gaming industry. From idea generation to developing polished, playable games, this course allows students to explore game design, level design, user interface (UI) design, and user experience (UX) design while working collaboratively in studio-like environments.

With access to industry-standard tools like Unity and Unreal Engine, live briefs from industry partners, and networking opportunities with top-tier gaming companies, students will graduate with a professional portfolio and the skills to excel in a high-demand field.

Why Study This Course?

• Comprehensive Skill Development: Gain expertise in game design, level creation, and UI/UX design, ensuring your work is intuitive and accessible.
• Hands-On Learning: Work on live briefs and collaborative projects, mirroring real-world industry practices.
• Industry-Relevant Tools: Master the two most popular commercial game engines, Unity and Unreal, to create games across various platforms.
• Networking Opportunities: Attend industry events like Gamebridge for portfolio reviews, guest talks, and connections with major gaming studios.
• Regional Advantage: Study in the East of England, a hub for nearly 200 active games companies, including Jagex, Frontier Developments, and Ninja Theory.

What to Expect

• Practical Experience: Develop and prototype game ideas, tackle industry-relevant briefs, and participate in negotiated projects tailored to your interests.
• Collaborative Environment: Work closely with students from other creative courses to enhance teamwork and project management skills.
• Career Guidance: Identify your strengths and interests to target specific roles in game design, level design, or UX/UI development.
• Expert Support: Receive feedback and mentorship from experienced staff to build an impressive portfolio and online presence.

Career Opportunities after Graduation

Graduates will be equipped to pursue diverse roles in the gaming and creative industries, such as:

• Game Designer: Develop gameplay concepts, mechanics, and narratives.
• Level Designer: Create engaging and immersive levels for players.
• UI/UX Designer: Design intuitive interfaces and optimize user experiences.
• Game Producer: Manage projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Game Tester: Ensure the quality and functionality of games before release.
• Technical Designer: Bridge design and programming for seamless gameplay.

With the UK games industry’s market value reaching £7.05 billion in 2022, graduates will find ample opportunities to join this growing sector.

Work Experience Opportunities

Students can take advantage of live briefs, negotiated projects, and events like Gamebridge to network with local and global industry leaders, including Jagex, Frontier Developments, and Ninja Theory. These experiences provide valuable insight into professional practices and opportunities to showcase skills.

How Will I Be Taught and Assessed?

The course combines:

• Lectures and Workshops: Learn foundational and advanced design techniques in collaborative environments.
• Practical Projects: Create playable games and prototypes to develop a versatile portfolio.
• Live Briefs: Collaborate on real-world projects provided by industry partners.
• Assessments: Coursework, group projects, presentations, and individual assignments, all evaluated in English.

Modules

Foundation Year Modules

• Interactive Learning Skills and Communication
• Information and Communication Technology
• Creative Workshops 1
• Approach to Design
• Critical and Contextual Studies
• Creative Workshops 2
• Specialist Project
• Composition and Style

Year 1 Modules

• Game Concepts and Analysis
• Video Game Prototyping
• Immersive Game Design

Year 2 Modules

• Collaborative Games Development
• Technical Development for Games
• Player Experiences in Games
• Ruskin Module

Year 3 Modules

• Studio Practice for Games
• Major Project for Games

Student Finance

If you’re a student from the UK, EU, or have received indefinite leave to remain, and refugee status you may be able to receive financial support from the Government to help fund your studies.

• Tuition fees (paid directly to the university)
• Living costs (paid directly to your bank and often called a maintenance loan and higher maintenance loan)

The living cost support will allow you to cover your rent, food, travel, and other costs to help you complete your course while in study.