Game Design

The Bachelor's programme in Game Design at Hanze University of Applied Sciences offers students a comprehensive education in the art and science of creating engaging and innovative video games. Designed to equip aspiring game designers with both creative and technical skills, this programme emphasizes the development of original game concepts, storytelling, user experience, and interactive media. Throughout the course, students explore various facets of game development, including graphic design, programming, game mechanics, and sound design, fostering a multidisciplinary approach essential for success in the gaming industry. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical projects, enabling students to collaborate in team environments similar to real-world game development settings. They learn to apply industry-standard tools and software, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of a competitive market. The programme also encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, pushing students to innovate and push boundaries within the digital entertainment landscape. With opportunities for internships and collaborations with industry partners, students gain valuable hands-on experience that enhances their employability after graduation. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to guiding students through their educational journey. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in game design, game development, interactive media, and related fields, positioning them for a successful future in the dynamic gaming industry. The programme is ideal for individuals passionate about gaming, storytelling, technology, and innovation, seeking to turn their ideas into compelling interactive experiences.

First year

During the first year, you will be introduced to all the majors of the Communication & Multimedia Design programme, focusing on the basics of game design, visual & interaction design, programming and user experience. The first half of the year will focus on concepting and prototyping a game and developing  it (making it digital). During the first year you will be working in different teams and on actual products from the work field.

After the first year

After the first year you will specialise in game design and get challenging applied game design cases. You will also dive into game development. You will learn to use game programming tools like Unity 3D, learn more about programming in C# and use these tools to build games for Virtual Reality and mobile. In the Game Lab you will work in multidisciplinary teams on cases for real clients. You will take charge of your project and not only come up with an concept, but also develop it and create a final polished product. You will be coached by local experts you will involve end-users in the development of the product.

Completing the second year leaves you in an excellent position in terms of applying for a work placement or studying abroad, as your new skills and knowledge, as well as your portfolio, will put you in an advantageous position. 

In the third year, you will complete work placement with a game studio in the Netherlands or abroad that suits your learning objectives. The other half of the third year offers many opportunities through minors at Hanze UAS or at one of our partner universities. 

You will complete the programme once you have done a  aduation assignment, in which you will address a complex case and design a game-based solution by using design research in combination with gathered skills and knowledge. By the end of your programme, you will have professional experience, a great set of personal skills, a diploma as well as a great portfolio, hence all the requirements to enter the games industry with.

To be admitted to this programme you will need a national secondary school diploma or an international secondary school diploma. You must also have mathematics on your final grade list. Your educational qualifications must be equivalent to the Dutch HAVO secondary school diploma. As the programme is taught entirely in English, you may have to prove your English language proficiency, depending on your educational background and nationality.

Tuition Fees 2018-2019

EU/EEA students: € 2,060 
Non-EU/EEA students: € 7,700

Career prospects

After completing this programme, you will have a foundation of skills and competences for working as a game designer or game developer in an (applied) game studio or start your own business. Alternatively, you will also be able to work as a multimedia designer or multimedia developer in the creative industry.