Game Design and Project Management

The Bachelor's Programme in Game Design and Project Management at Uppsala University offers students a comprehensive education in the creative, technical, and managerial aspects of game development. This interdisciplinary program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to design engaging, innovative, and high-quality video games while also providing a solid foundation in project management principles essential for working effectively within the gaming industry. Throughout the program, students engage in a range of courses covering game design theory, interactive storytelling, programming, graphics, user experience, and project planning. They have the opportunity to develop their own game projects from concept to completion, gaining hands-on experience in team collaboration, game development tools, and industry-standard software. The curriculum emphasizes both creativity and technical expertise, preparing graduates to work as game designers, project managers, or in other roles within the gaming industry. In addition to technical skills, students learn about the business aspects of game development, including marketing, distribution, and monetization strategies. The program also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills through project-based learning and collaborative assignments. Uppsala University’s vibrant academic environment and close ties to industry partners provide students with valuable networks and internship opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in game development companies, entertainment studios, or to pursue further research or postgraduate studies in game design and related fields. The Bachelor's Programme in Game Design and Project Management combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to ensure that students are ready to contribute to the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.

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 Games, 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 %)

Financing studies for the Game Design and Project Management program at Uppsala University typically involve several funding options for both domestic and international students. The program may be supported through government-funded scholarships, grants, and loans available to Swedish students, as well as international scholarship programs for non-EU students. Swedish students often benefit from government student aid known as "CSN" (Centrala Studiestödsnämnden), which includes grants and loans that cover tuition fees and living expenses during their studies. International students from within the EU/EEA usually pay reduced tuition fees and may have access to some scholarship opportunities offered by Uppsala University or external organizations.

For non-EU/EEA students, tuition fees are set by the university and must be paid upfront or through installment plans. Uppsala University provides a limited number of scholarships specifically aimed at international students, such as the Uppsala University Global Scholarships, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, including private scholarships, sponsored programs, or part-time employment opportunities permitted under Swedish work regulations for international students.

Students are advised to explore the university's official website and the Swedish Council for Higher Education for comprehensive information on available funding. It is also recommended to contact the university’s student financial aid office for personalized guidance based on individual circumstances. Overall, the financing of studies in Game Design and Project Management at Uppsala University requires careful planning, consideration of scholarship applications, and understanding of Swedish-specific financial support structures to ensure complete coverage of tuition and living expenses.

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.