Game Design and Graphics

The Bachelor's Programme in Game Design and Graphics at Uppsala University offers students a comprehensive education in the creative and technical aspects of game development, focusing on both visual design and interactive storytelling. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to excel in the dynamic field of game creation, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. Throughout the course, students will explore various disciplines including digital art, animation, 3D modeling, game mechanics, and user experience design, preparing them to contribute effectively to the gaming industry or pursue advanced studies. The programme emphasizes problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork, encouraging students to develop their own unique artistic voice while mastering industry-standard tools and techniques. Students will have opportunities to work on real-world projects, collaborate with peers, and participate in workshops with industry professionals, fostering a deep understanding of current market trends and technological advancements. The curriculum also covers game theory, narrative development, and graphic design principles, ensuring a well-rounded education that balances creativity with technical expertise. Graduates from this programme will be well-equipped to take on roles such as game artist, graphic designer, level designer, or game developer, contributing to the creation of engaging and visually stunning games. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and guidance from experienced faculty, students will be encouraged to push creative boundaries and innovate within the gaming industry. The programme is ideal for students passionate about games, digital art, and technology, and who aspire to make a career in this vibrant and rapidly evolving field. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared to enter the professional world or continue their studies at a higher level, advancing the frontiers of game design and graphics.

Courses within the programme

Semester 1
Game Design 1 - Introduction 15 credits
Minor Subject 15 credits

Semester 2
Game Design 2 – Game Development, 7.5 credits
Game Production 1 – Arcade Game, 15 credits
Minor Subject, 7.5 credits

Semester 3
Game Design 3 – System Design, 15 credits
Minor Subject, 15 credits

Semester 4
Game Design 4 – Serious Games Design, 7.5 credits
Minor Subject or optional courses, 7.5 credits
Game Production 2 – Vertical Slice, 15 credits

Semester 5
Optional courses* 30 credits
*within major, minor or other subject, alternatively studies abroad

Semester 6
Game Design 5 – Theory and Method, 7.5 credits
Game Design 6 – Experimental Game Design, 7.5 credits
Degree Project, 15 credits

Requirements

Mathematics 2a/2b/2c or Mathematics B

English 6 or English B

Selection

Final school grades (60 %) - Swedish Scholastic Aptitude Test (40 %)

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Game Design and Graphics program at Uppsala University is primarily based on several funding sources, including government grants, student tuition fees (where applicable), scholarships, and financial aid options. As a public university in Sweden, Uppsala University receives significant funding from the Swedish government, which supports the development and maintenance of its diverse academic programs. This governmental support ensures that the core curriculum and essential resources are accessible to students without requiring high tuition fees, especially for Swedish and European Union/EEA students, as education in Sweden for these groups is generally free of charge or involves minimal fees.

International students, however, may be required to pay tuition fees, which contribute to the university's capacity to offer high-quality facilities, equipment, and faculty expertise in areas such as game design and visual graphics. Uppsala University offers various scholarships, including those specifically aimed at international students, which can significantly offset the costs of participation in the program. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria, and they serve to promote diversity and inclusion within the student body.

Furthermore, students may have access to financial aid programs through Swedish public support systems, which include loans and grants available via the Swedish Council for Higher Education (CSN). These financial aids are designed to support students throughout their studies, making higher education more accessible and sustainable. The university also encourages students to seek external funding through private foundations or industry partnerships, especially in the field of game design and graphics where collaboration with industry players can provide internship opportunities, project funding, and career development support.

In addition, many students might consider part-time employment during their studies, either within the university or externally, to supplement their income. The location of Uppsala University in Uppsala city, a student-friendly city with numerous opportunities for part-time work, enhances this possibility. The program's structure also considers practical training and project work, which can sometimes be subsidized by industry collaborations, providing students with financial and professional benefits.

Overall, the financing of the program is designed to be multifaceted, combining government funding, scholarship programs, student aid, industry collaboration, and personal employment opportunities to ensure students can focus on their studies and fully benefit from the educational offerings. Uppsala University's commitment to making higher education accessible and affordable supports students in pursuing their ambitions in game design and graphics without undue financial hardship.

Career opportunities

The programme theoretically and practically prepares you for a professional career within business, organisations, authorities or as a business owner.

One of the programme’s strengths is its well-developed contact with the game industry. This is why the programme’s former students make up an especially useful network. Through yearly recurring events notable individuals from the international game industry, former students and academics are invited to judge student projects and share their experience. This provides an excellent opportunity for you to build your own contact network for the career ahead of you.

The game industry is the largest and fastest growing business in the entertainment industry. It is in continuous development which leads to a large demand for a broad spectrum of creative professionals with game development as the common denominator. Games are also increasingly being used within education, training and medicine, under the name Serious Games.

As a graduate of the programme, you will be able to continue your studies at Master's level in or outside Sweden.