Game Design BA (Hons)

Overview

The BA Game Design combines coding, creativity, and critical theory to deliver a distinctive new provision in interactive audiovisual media. This interdisciplinary programme is one of the first of its kind in the Russell Group, combining modules from Computer Science and the School of the Arts to deliver a holistic grounding in how games are made, why they’re made, and what they tell us about the world.

You will develop skills in coding and programming alongside an understanding of creative design principles, through a combination of modules from Architecture, Communication & Media, Computer Science, English, Music, and Philosophy. These individual disciplines are drawn together by a set of bespoke Game Design modules in which you’ll produce work that will form part of your professional portfolio.

Programme in detail

Your first year will establish the foundations for your studies, introducing you to the basics of programming, creative principles, and the academic context for game design.

In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of specialisms such as software engineering, artificial intelligence, and communication technologies. A selection of optional modules will allow you to explore some of the more artistic aspects of game design.

During your final year, you’ll undergo advanced study of computer game and app development, consider the philosophical issues associated with play and virtual worlds, and critically evaluate academic studies in games. A year-long module will see you apply your creative, critical, and technical skills to a collaborative project.

Work placement/Year in industry

This programme can also be studied over four years, with the third year spent on a relevant, salaried work placement.

Career prospects

Digital games (incorporating computer games, video games, and smart phone apps) represent one of the fastest growing forms of entertainment media. This progamme aims to equip you with the technical, creative and critical skills that will help you find employment in this dynamic and rapidly growing field, whilst assembling a professional portfolio of work.

There is a growing need for jobs not only in the games industry, but in surrounding industries as well. As such, this programme develops a wide range of skills that prepare students for employment at various entry points in the job market, including content creation, publishing, journalism, and marketing.

Recent employers

Examples of companies employing School of the Arts’ graduates in recent years include:

• BBC
• The Globe Theatre
• Liverpool Biennial Festival of Contemporary Arts
• Royal Bank of Scotland etc.