Overview

In the first year of the BA Games Design programme, students are introduced to the fundamental principles, tools, and contexts of game design and development. The focus is on building a strong foundation in both the creative and technical aspects of games, while encouraging experimentation, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Students begin by exploring game design fundamentals, learning how gameplay mechanics, rules, systems, and player experience work together to create engaging interactive experiences. Through practical modules in game prototyping and gameplay scripting, students gain hands-on experience in turning ideas into playable concepts and understanding the logic that drives interactivity.

Alongside design and development skills, students are introduced to game asset development, learning the basics of creating visual content for games, as well as the workflows used in game production pipelines. The study of game studies provides essential theoretical and cultural context, helping students understand the history of games, genres, player communities, and the wider social impact of the medium.

By the end of Year 1, students will have developed core practical skills, an understanding of game design theory, and the confidence to create simple but meaningful game experiences, preparing them for more complex development work in Year 2.

 Overview

In the second year, students build on their foundational knowledge and move towards more advanced, experimental, and professional game development practices. The emphasis shifts to refinement, innovation, and preparing work that reflects industry expectations.

Students engage in extended and experimental game development, exploring more ambitious concepts, advanced mechanics, and alternative forms of play. Through the Launch Title module, they experience the full lifecycle of a game project, from concept and development to polish and presentation, mirroring professional studio workflows.

Visual communication and player interaction are further developed through User Interface Design, where students learn how interface, usability, and player feedback shape the gaming experience. At the same time, Game Art Portfolio Development supports students in refining their visual assets and building a professional-quality portfolio aligned with their chosen specialism.

Collaboration, iteration, and critical reflection are central to Year 2. By the end of the year, students will have produced more sophisticated game projects, strengthened their technical and creative identity, and developed a clearer sense of direction towards their final year.

 Overview

The final year of the BA Games Design programme focuses on independence, professional readiness, and the integration of creative, technical, and theoretical skills. Students are encouraged to define their personal design voice and produce work that reflects both originality and industry relevance.

The Major Project forms the core of Year 3, allowing students to conceive, design, and develop a substantial game or game-related project of their choosing. This project represents the culmination of their studies and demonstrates their ability to manage complex development processes, solve design problems, and deliver a polished outcome.

Through the Games Design Dissertation, students engage in independent research, exploring a topic relevant to game design, game culture, or interactive media. This strengthens their analytical, critical, and academic writing skills, and enables them to contextualise their practical work within wider theoretical and industry debates.

The Game Studio Development module prepares students for professional practice by simulating studio environments and workflows. Students develop teamwork, project management, communication, and presentation skills, gaining insight into the realities of working within the games industry.

By the end of Year 3, graduates will have a strong portfolio, a completed major project, and a deep understanding of both the creative and professional demands of the games design industry, preparing them for employment or further postgraduate study.