BSc (Hons) Games Design

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 9 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 13 k / Year(s) Deadline: Sep 15, 2025
StudyQA ranking:5763 Duration:3 years

Photos of university / #bruneluni

The BSc (Hons) Games Design programme at Brunel University London offers a comprehensive and innovative education for students passionate about creating engaging and innovative video games. This course provides students with a strong foundation in the core principles of game design, including storytelling, user experience, visual design, programming, and interactive media. Throughout the programme, students will develop their technical skills in game development tools and software, enabling them to produce polished, professional-quality games. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to enter the competitive gaming industry or pursue further academic research.

Students will explore various aspects of game development, from conceptual design and narrative creation to level design and gameplay mechanics. The programme emphasizes creative problem solving, teamwork, and project management, reflecting the collaborative nature of the gaming industry. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as dedicated game development labs, motion capture equipment, and industry-standard software, providing a realistic environment to bring their ideas to life.

Brunel’s location in London offers ample opportunities for networking, internships, and industry engagement, giving students a valuable edge in gaining relevant experience and establishing professional connections. The course is delivered by experienced academics and industry professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom, ensuring that graduates are prepared for careers in game design, development, testing, and production.

By the end of the programme, students will have built an impressive portfolio of original games and projects that demonstrate their skills and creativity. The programme also prepares students for postgraduate study or entrepreneurial ventures within the gaming industry. With a blend of artistic vision, technical expertise, and an understanding of market trends, graduates of the BSc (Hons) Games Design at Brunel University London are well-positioned to thrive in one of the most dynamic and innovative sectors of entertainment.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee
  • GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
  • GBP 13000 Year (Non-EEA)
UK/EU students: £9,000 full-time; £6,750 part-time ; £1,000 placement year Start date September 2015 3-year full-time; 4.5-6-year part-time Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test
  • English
Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Part-time, Full-time Intensity Flexible Part-time variant Flexible

Course Content

In each year of your degree, you will study theory modules aimed at developing your analytical understanding of the cultural and social significance of games and their historical contexts. Design modules will aid your ability to produce creative, realisable strategies in relation to set briefs. Application modules will provide you with a comprehensive knowledge of the communication skills currently used in the games industry, including presentation and prototyping skills.
At each level you’ll take modules in:

Theory, which develops your understanding of methods and approaches used in the analysis of games, their cultural and social significance, and historical contexts.

Design, which will aid your development of creative strategies for generating game design ideas and game design projects. You undertake design projects, developing a practical understanding of creative game design.

Application (industry relevant skills and contexts), which will provide you with a comprehensive knowledge of the skills used currently in the games industry.

Asset and Story Creation, which builds skills with image creation and manipulation programs, basic 3D modelling with Maya and a focus on development of both your game’s looks and narrative.

Additional modules in Animation, Game Rule Design and Analysis and Creative Computing will sharpen key skills relevant to work in the games industry and further deepen your design projects, allowing for them to be executed to the fullest.

Typical Modules

Level 1

  • Theory 1: ‘Reading’ Games – methods for, and practice of, analysing the formal components of games

  • Design 1: Introduction to Game Design – practical exercises, working to set briefs

  • Application 1: Methods for, and practice of, communicating design concepts and ideas

  • Creative Computing – gaining confidence with software commonly used by the creative industries as well as web design

  • Asset and Story Creation 1 – getting to grips with image manipulation and 3d modelling tools.

  • Academic Practice

Level 2

  • Theory 2: Approaches to analysing games and players

  • Design 2: Large game design projects, working to a brief, World design and the building of games within those worlds

  • Application 2: Prototyping game designs and understanding the games industry

  • Asset and Story Creation 2 – Cementing Design 2’s world and game designs with 3D models, storyboarding and optional animation

  • Game Mechanics – Looking in-depth at game mechanics and how they function as the core of the gaming experience

  • An elective module from a wide choice of subjects offered

Level 3

  • Theory 3: Socio-Cultural Contexts – analysing the social and cultural implications of games

  • Asset and Story Creation 3 – Intensive module supporting your practical games dissertation projects

  • Major Design Project

  • Major Theoretical Project

  • Asset Creation Project

Typical Dissertations

In your final year on the course, dissertations will comprise a game design with a working prototype as well as a section of working assets. Also, at level three you will write an in-depth investigation into an element of games theory which has drawn your attention. You will pitch your game designs to an invited industry panel for specialist feedback.

Applicants should hold a minimum of an Upper Second-Class Bachelor's degree (2:1) in a relevant subject such as computer science, media, digital arts, or a related discipline. Alternatively, mature students with substantial work experience in the games industry or digital media may also be considered through a process of accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL). Candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong interest in game design and development, with a good understanding of basic programming concepts, digital media tools, and storytelling techniques. A portfolio showcasing relevant projects, games, or digital artwork is highly recommended to illustrate creativity and technical skills. Evidence of proficiency in English is required for international applicants, typically demonstrated through IELTS (minimum overall band score of 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each component) or equivalent qualifications. The university also values relevant prior learning or industry experience that can demonstrate a candidate’s capability to succeed in a rigorous academic environment. Interview or selection tasks may be part of the application process to assess motivation, technical aptitude, and potential for creative innovation. Applicants should prepare to discuss their portfolio or relevant work experience in detail, highlighting their understanding of game mechanics, storytelling, user experience, and technical development. The program encourages applicants with diverse backgrounds to apply, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of game design, including skills in art, programming, storytelling, and user interface design. All applicants are advised to carefully review the specific entry requirements published on the university’s official website for the most current and detailed information.

The financing options for the Games Design program at Brunel University London are designed to support both domestic and international students in their pursuit of higher education. Students can explore a range of funding sources to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs. UK students are typically eligible to apply for government-backed student loans provided by the Student Loans Company, which offer repayment plans based on income levels after graduation. These loans can cover tuition fees and may also provide maintenance support to assist with accommodation, food, and personal expenses. International students are generally encouraged to seek scholarships, bursaries, and sponsorship opportunities available through the university or external organizations. Brunel University London offers a variety of scholarships for international students, which are awarded based on academic merit, potential, and other criteria. Additionally, students may consider private loans, crowdfunding, or external funding programs depending on their individual circumstances. The university's financial aid office provides detailed guidance and support throughout the application process, ensuring students are aware of all available options. Payment plans may also be available to spread the cost of tuition fees over manageable installments. It is advisable for prospective students to check the latest information on the university's official website or contact the admissions and finance departments for personalized advice. Furthermore, participation in work placements or part-time employment opportunities offered through the university can help students offset living expenses while gaining valuable professional experience. Overall, Brunel University London strives to facilitate accessible education through comprehensive financing support, ensuring students can focus on their studies and achieve their academic and career goals in Games Design.

The BSc Games Design program at Brunel University London is a comprehensive undergraduate course designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to succeed in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of game development. The curriculum focuses on both the technical and creative aspects of game design, including game mechanics, storytelling, user experience, graphics, programming, and interactive media. Students will gain practical experience through hands-on projects, collaborating in teams to develop innovative and engaging games across various platforms such as PC, consoles, and mobile devices. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding player engagement, game psychology, and industry trends to create commercially successful products. Students will also explore the legal, ethical, and business considerations relevant to the gaming industry, preparing them for diverse careers within this expanding sector. Throughout their studies, learners have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized labs and software for game development and animation. The course aims to foster creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking, providing a strong foundation for future employment or further research in game design, development, and related fields. The course duration is typically three years full-time or four years with certain placements or additional options, with opportunities for industry placements to gain real-world experience. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue roles such as game designer, game programmer, artwork and animation specialist, level designer, and project manager within the gaming industry or start their own independent development projects. Brunel University London maintains strong links with industry partners, offering students mentoring, networking events, and guest lectures from industry professionals. Admission requirements generally include A-levels or equivalent qualifications, with a focus on creativity and problem-solving skills. Overall, the BSc Games Design at Brunel is designed to prepare students for a successful career in an exciting and creative global industry, fostering innovation, technical skills, and industry awareness.

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