Game Design

The Bachelor's Programme in Game Design at Uppsala University offers students a comprehensive education in the creative and technical aspects of developing engaging digital games. This program is designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the rapidly evolving gaming industry by providing a solid foundation in game theory, design principles, storytelling, programming, and visual arts. Throughout the course of study, students will have the opportunity to develop their own game projects, collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, and learn about the latest trends and technologies in gaming. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to contribute to game development teams in roles such as game designer, level designer, or gameplay programmer. Students will also explore related fields such as interactive media, sound design, and user experience to create immersive and engaging player experiences. The programme fosters a creative environment where innovation and critical thinking are encouraged, supported by experienced faculty members with extensive expertise in game design, computer science, and digital art. As part of their studies, students will participate in workshops, industry visits, and project-based assignments, providing valuable networking opportunities and real-world experience. Graduates from the Bachelor’s Programme in Game Design will possess the necessary skills to enter the competitive gaming industry or continue their studies at the master's level. The programme’s international orientation also prepares students to work in global markets, with an emphasis on cultural awareness and collaborative skills. Upon completion, students will hold a recognized academic degree and be capable of designing, developing, and critically evaluating digital games across various platforms, from mobile devices to consoles and PC.

The programme comprises two years of full-time study. Semesters one, two and four contain compulsory courses in game design.

The first semester consists of an introductory course containing a review of current research and development work in game design. This course includes theory and method as well as scientific writing, which prepares you for the degree project that you will write in semester four. In addition, the first semester contains courses in game analysis, presenting different methods of analysing games and their mechanics, structures and composition.

The second semester contains a course in game testing with an in-depth review of various ways of testing games, and a course on games and society, which deals with how games reflect their contemporary context. Further, there is a course in Pervasive Games, i.e. games that are played in the physical world as well as in the game world in such a way that public space becomes part of the game. The semester concludes with a course about game prototypes for research purposes, where you are given the opportunity to combine the theoretical and practical knowledge you have acquired during the programme.

In semester three you are able to choose courses - at first or second-cycle level - within or outside the department. Another option is to participate in international student exchange within the framework of the University's or the department's exchange agreements. During this semester the department offers courses in experimental game design and in various forms of storytelling.

The whole of the fourth semester is devoted to writing the degree project.

Learning experience

Instruction takes the form of lectures, seminars and workshops with oral and written assignments, to be carried out individually or in groups. Group work will develop your collaborative and communicative skills. During semesters one, two and three you will be writing longer reflective essays in preparation for your thesis in semester four.

In addition to traditional lectures and seminars your studies will consist of individual and group based self-study, revision and preparation for seminars and presentations.

You will demonstrate your ability to discuss results and draw conclusions in oral presentations in seminars, written reports, traditional exams, and, ultimately, in your Master's thesis.

The programme will be taught entirely in Engish.

Enclose a statement of purpose in English (1 page) where you reflect on your approach and attitude to games and game design in relation to this Master's programme.

Bachelor’s degree with in-depth subject study in a main field of study specialising in games or gaming (e.g. game design, game development, game programming, computer and systems science, information technology). Knowledge of English corresponding to English 6 is also required (a Swedish bachelor’s degree meets the requirement for English).

Selection: Students are selected based on:

• a total appraisal of quantity and quality of previous university studies; and
• a statement of purpose (1 page).

There are a number of scholarships available each year for fee-paying international students who are applying to an international Bachelor’s or Master's programme.

Some scholarships are specifically for students who are applying to one of Uppsala University’s Master’s programmes, while others are open to both Master’s and Bachelor’s students. Some scholarships are open for all citizens of a country outside of the EU/EEA or Switzerland whilst others are only open to citizens of certain countries.

Please note! The scholarships that are open for application can vary from year to year. The list of nationalities that are eligible for the King Carl Gustaf Scholarship also varies from year to year, so be sure to check whether you are eligible to apply before you submit an application.

The Game Design undergraduate programme at Uppsala University offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of designing engaging and innovative video games. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling students to develop their creative ideas into fully realized game projects. Throughout the course, students explore various aspects of game development, including storytelling, user experience design, game mechanics, graphics, and sound design. The curriculum emphasizes both individual creativity and collaborative working skills, preparing graduates for careers in the rapidly evolving gaming industry. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and work with industry-standard software, gaining hands-on experience through projects, internships, and collaborations with local companies. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary understanding, often integrating knowledge from computer science, psychology, and art to foster well-rounded game designers. Graduates of the programme are equipped to pursue roles such as game designer, level designer, gameplay programmer, and UI/UX designer, among others. The university maintains strong ties with the industry, ensuring that the education remains relevant and current with technological advances and market trends. Additionally, students have opportunities to participate in game expos, competitions, and research projects, enhancing their professional portfolio and employability. The programme aims to inspire innovation and critical thinking, encouraging students to push the boundaries of traditional game design and explore new forms of interactive entertainment. Overall, the Game Design programme at Uppsala University provides a solid foundation for those aspiring to contribute to the creative and technological development of the gaming industry worldwide.