How about game design courses in UK?
We all are aware of the rapid increase of the gaming industry. Video games have become a major part of Gen-Z ‘s life. Have you ever wondered about the creation of video games? It’s not as easy as playing games when it comes to the invention of it.
Here is a blog answering all of your questions about the top game design courses along with the demanding universities, entry requirements, application tips and scholarships.
Table of Content
1What is Game Designing2Game Design vs Game Development3Best Game Design Courses in UK4Top Universities for Game Design in UK5What are the Requirements to Become a Game Designer6Game Design Courses in UK Fees7How to Apply for Game Design Course in UK8Game Designer Jobs in UK9Conclusion10Frequently Asked Questions
What is Game Designing
Game designing is the creation of an overall gaming experience through the process of designing rules, goals, characters, challenges, story including game’s structure and mechanics. It is all about how a game will look, feel and play.
Now what game designers do?
Game designers use their creative skills to craft engaging worlds to immerse us in unique experiences. They ensure whether it is playable and engaging and oversee the execution of the game with overall user experience.
Game Design vs Game Development
The title seems almost the same and it’s a bit confusing when both game designing and developing comes together. But they are not.
Game Design is a discipline involved in game development. The main difference lies in their core functions; while game design involves creating the story, characters, settings and other creative aspects that shape the game, game developing deals with the technical aspects like programming and coding which brings ideas into life.
| GAME DESIGN | GAME DEVELOPMENT |
| Deals with the creative aspects of the game | Deals with the technical aspects of the game |
| Invent and convey the game concept | Translate the game concept into a successful product |
| Involves designing the game’s rules, characters, and gameplay | Involves coding, sound engineering, rendering, and testing |
| The target audience’s needs | Provides the actual game |
Let’s delve deep into the top game design courses in UK and the demanding universities offering it.
Best Game Design Courses in UK
The UK universities have the best game design courses to offer for the international students. Let’s take a look into some of them.
- BSc (Hons) Game Design
- BA (Hons) Game Design
- BSc (Hons) Computer Games Development
- BA (Hons) 3D Games Art & Design
- BA (Hons) Games Design and Development
- BA (Hons) Computer Animation and Visual Effects
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Games Technology
Top Universities for Game Design in UK
Here’s a list of reputed universities offering game design courses in UK.
1. University Of Staffordshire
The game design course this university offers includes both designing and development in their curriculum. So both the skills can be developed through this single course. This program is accredited by one of the gaming authorities of the UK named TIGA.
| Course Name | Computer Games Design |
| Degree Type | BSc (Hons) |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| IELTS Requirement | No |
2. University Of Hull
Learn from the expert faculties and explore the world of gaming in one of the highly ranked universities in the UK. It is the public research university, ranked third in the UK for Computer Games and Animation.
| Course Name | Game Design |
| Degree Type | BA (Hons) |
| Duration | 3 years |
| IELTS Requirement | 6.0 |
3. Manchester Metropolitan University
This university is considered one of the top public universities in the UK. If you want to be the future designer of games like Subway Surfers and Temple Run, go with this university where it has got a comprehensive curriculum.
| Course Name | Game Design |
| Degree Type | BSc (Hons) |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| IELTS Requirement | 6 |
4. University Of Bolton
Both full time and part time courses are made available to the international students by this university. This will benefit the students as they can work along with course duration.
| Course Name | Game Design |
| Degree Type | BSc (Hons) |
| Duration | Full Time: 4 Years Part Time: 54 Months |
| IELTS Requirement | Not Required |
5. Sheffield Hallam University
Their game design course will develop the creative and artistic skill in each of the students with access to emerging technologies such as VR, XR, AR and generative AI. Students get to work with real game development projects along with game design as they have included both in their curriculum.
| Course Name | Game Design and Game Development |
| Degree Type | BA (Hons) |
| Duration | 3-4 Years |
| IELTS Requirement | 6.5 |
6. University Of The Arts London
If you wish to excel in game designing, then this university has everything in for it. From theoretical education to practical approach, along with financial support, this can be an attractive choice for the international students. Between the second and third year of your course, you are given the chance to opt for a diploma program, thereby enhancing your degree.
| Course Name | Game Design |
| Degree Type | BA (Hons), MA |
| Duration | BA: 3 Years MA: 1 Year and 3 Months |
| IELTS Requirement | 6.0 and above |
What are the Requirements to Become a Game Designer
The requirements like IELTS score, alternate equivalent qualifications can vary upon the university you choose.
Check out these general requirements you are supposed to meet while applying for game design courses in UK.
For Undergraduate Course
- Academic Qualification – HSC certificate (Class 12) with a minimum score of 60% and some universities may ask for a minimum score of 70%.
- Having a good score in relevant subjects like computer science, arts, mathematics increases your chance of entry.
- English language proficiency – IELTS of a minimum overall score of 6.0-7.0 ( There are universities that require no IELTS)
- Portfolio is very important for game design and related courses, reflecting your creative skills.
- Additional knowledge in technical and soft skills can provide an advantage (creative thinking, 2D and 3D design skills, programming language)
- There are specific university requirements like some may prioritize IB Diploma for international students and A-Levels.
*( Check the course page in university website and go through the specific requirements each university asks for.)
For Postgraduate Course
- Academic Qualification – For master’s, you must have a bachelor’s in any of the relevant fields like computer science, graphic design, game design.
- IELTS – a typical requirement is 6.5 – 7.0
- Build a strong portfolio showcasing your artistic skills. Prior work experience in related fields is also an advantage.
*( Check the course page in university website and go through the specific requirements each university asks for)
Documents Required
- Offer letter from the university
- English language proficiency certificate
- Financial proof
- Recommendation letters ( if necessary)
- Statement Of Purpose
- Visa
Game Design Courses in UK Fees
A range of £15,000 – £35,000 is expected to pay for the game design courses in UK for international students. This can vary depending on universities you choose. There are scholarship programs available for international students.
| University | Course Fee (per year) |
|---|---|
| University of Staffordshire | £16,750 |
| University of Hull | £17,500 |
| Manchester Metropolitan University | £18,500 |
| University of Bolton | £13,550 |
| Sheffield Hallam University | £17,155 |
| University of The Arts London | £29,990 |
| Falmouth University | £17,460 |
| De-Montfort University | £15,750 |
How to Apply for Game Design Course in UK
If you have decided to study game design in UK, then follow these steps without fail.
- Start by researching the universities
- Check eligibility
- Gather necessary documents
- Prepare a strong portfolio
- Apply through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admission Service)
- English language proficiency test
- Submit academic transcripts
- Receive offer letter
- Apply for student visa
- Arrange for accommodation
- Prepare to fly
* For complete counselling and guidance contact CanApprove Immigration and Study Abroad Consultancy.
Game Designer Jobs in UK
Now what’s next after the game design courses in UK.
Let’s explore the game design jobs in UK which stand out as top in demand. There are different levels like entry, junior and senior, based on one’s experience and calibre. You can get hired as an intern which increases your chance of getting high paid jobs in game designing.
- Level Designer
- Lead Game Designer
- Junior Technical Designer
- Creative Designer
- 3D Environment Artist
- 2D Designer
- Gameplay Programmer
- Senior Game Designer
- Junior Game Designer
- UX/UI Designer
- Visual Designer
Rockstar North, Ubisoft Reflections, Ninja Theory and many more companies are waiting for you with more job opportunities in game designing.
Conclusion
The gaming and animation industry are growing rapidly. If you have the potential and wish to excel in this field, don’t think too much. Game Design Courses in UK is the perfect choice in a perfect destination.
CanApprove Consultancy is here with full determination to help you achieve your dreams. Contact today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- University of Dundee
- University of Bolton
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- University of Portsmouth
- Coventry University
And there are many more universities waiting for you.
