Bachelor's Programme in Game Development

The Bachelor's Programme in Game Development at the University of Skövde is a comprehensive and innovative program designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the gaming industry. The program combines technical expertise, creative skills, and a strong understanding of interactive media to equip students with the necessary tools to develop engaging and high-quality video games. Throughout the course, students will gain hands-on experience in game design, programming, graphics, animation, and sound design, enabling them to contribute to every stage of game development. The curriculum emphasizes a practical approach, encouraging teamwork and project-based learning to simulate real-world industry environments.

Students will learn about game engines, programming languages such as C++ and C#, and the principles of game mechanics, story development, character design, and user experience. The program also covers areas like artificial intelligence, physics, and network development to prepare students for the technical challenges of modern game creation. In addition to technical skills, the program fosters creativity and innovation, encouraging students to develop unique game concepts and storytelling abilities. Collaboration with industry partners and participation in game jams and competitions provide invaluable opportunities for networking and practical application of learned skills.

The faculty comprises experienced professionals from the gaming industry, offering mentorship and insights into current trends and future directions. The university's state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated game development labs and equipment, create an optimal environment for learning and experimentation. Graduates of the program will be well-positioned for careers in game design and development studios, independent game development, multimedia companies, or further graduate studies. The Bachelor's Programme in Game Development at the University of Skövde is committed to fostering innovative, skilled, and industry-ready game developers capable of shaping the future of interactive entertainment.

Program Content Description for Serious Games at University of Skövde

The Serious Games program at the University of Skövde offers students a comprehensive education in the design, development, and application of interactive digital games with a focus on educational, training, health, and societal purposes. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to create engaging and meaningful game experiences that serve real-world needs. Throughout the course of study, students explore game design principles, storytelling, user experience (UX), and the integration of interactive technologies. Emphasis is placed on understanding the pedagogical, psychological, and social aspects of game-based solutions, ensuring that students are equipped to develop games that effectively influence learning, behavior, and perceptions.

In the first year, students are introduced to core concepts such as game mechanics, programming, visual design, and project management. They learn to analyze user needs and translate them into compelling game concepts. The curriculum includes courses on human-computer interaction (HCI), game storytelling, and evaluation methods for assessing the impact of serious games. As they progress into the second year, students undertake more complex projects that involve interdisciplinary collaboration with peers from design, computer science, and psychology faculties. They gain hands-on experience in prototyping, testing, and refining game prototypes.

The program places a strong emphasis on innovation and research, encouraging students to participate in ongoing research projects within the university's state-of-the-art labs. Students are also encouraged to collaborate with external organizations, including healthcare providers, educational institutions, and industry partners, to develop games tailored to specific societal challenges. The curriculum is periodically updated to include emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI), reflecting the latest trends in the field of serious games.

Graduates of the Serious Games program will possess a versatile skill set suitable for careers in game design, educational technology, health promotion, corporate training, and applied research. They are prepared to work in multidisciplinary teams and apply their knowledge to create impactful gaming solutions that contribute to societal development and innovation. The program aims to produce graduates who not only excel technically but also understand the ethical and social implications of deploying serious games across different sectors.

Academic requirements for admission to the Serious Games Master's programme at the University of Skövde typically include a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Interaction Design, Game Development, or Digital Media. Applicants are expected to demonstrate foundational knowledge in programming, game design, and multimedia production. proficiency in English is mandatory, usually proven by standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, with minimum scores specified by the university. Prior experience or portfolio showcasing work in game development, interactive media, or related areas can strengthen an application, although formal prerequisites generally focus on completed undergraduate studies and language proficiency. The selection process emphasizes academic records, motivation, and relevant skills, aiming to admit students with a strong interest in the design, development, and evaluation of serious games. Additionally, applicants may need to submit a statement of purpose outlining their motivation for pursuing the programme and their career aspirations in the field of game-based learning and interactive media. The university may also consider work experience in related fields as an asset. Candidates are advised to review the specific admission guidelines provided on the University's official website for detailed and updated information. The programme equips students with advanced knowledge in game design, programming, project management, and research methods related to serious games, preparing them for professional roles in educational, healthcare, training, or corporate sectors. A portfolio or evidence of prior work in relevant projects can also be beneficial during the admission process.

Funding for the Serious Games Master's programme at the University of Skövde can be obtained through various channels. International students may be eligible for scholarships and grants offered by the Swedish government, the university itself, or other external organizations. The Swedish Institute offers scholarships for full degree studies for students from selected countries, which can cover tuition fees and provide a living allowance. Additionally, the university provides specific scholarship opportunities for international students, which are awarded based on academic merit and other criteria. Students are encouraged to explore these options early in their application process to maximize their chances of securing financial support.

Moreover, students may consider student loans, which are available through Swedish student aid authorities for those who qualify. These loans can be used to cover living costs and, in some cases, tuition fees if applicable. It is important for students to carefully review the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for these loan programs.

Part-time work during studies is another common means of financing studies in Sweden. International students with a residence permit for studies are allowed to work part-time, generally up to 20 hours per week during semester and full-time during university holidays. This provides an opportunity to earn income to support living expenses while studying.

The university also offers guidance and support for students seeking financial aid. prospective students are advised to contact the university's admissions office or international student services for detailed information on available scholarships, grants, and financial planning resources. It is important to note that tuition fees for the programme vary depending on the student's nationality; non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition fees, whereas students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland generally do not.

In summary, financing studies at the University of Skövde for the Serious Games programme involves a combination of scholarship opportunities, student loans, part-time employment, and personal funds. Early planning and thorough research into available options are essential for successfully funding studies at this level.

The Master's Programme in Serious Games at the University of Skövde is a comprehensive and innovative program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to create engaging, educational, and impactful game-based solutions. The program emphasizes the development of games that serve functions beyond entertainment, including education, training, health, and social change. Students in this program will explore various aspects of game design, development, and deployment, focusing on the psychological, pedagogical, and technological elements that make serious games effective. The curriculum covers topics such as game theory, user experience, multimedia production, programming, and project management, ensuring a well-rounded education in game development with a specialized focus on serious application areas.

Throughout the program, students will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and collaborate with industry partners, providing practical experience and networking opportunities. The program aims to foster creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, and public sector organizations involved in the development and deployment of serious games. The teaching approach combines lectures, project-based learning, and hands-on workshops, facilitated by experienced faculty members and industry experts. Students will also engage in research activities, further deepening their understanding of serious game concepts and trends.

Graduates of this program are expected to possess skills in conceptualizing and designing serious games that effectively communicate messages, promote learning, and influence behavior. They will also be adept at using modern tools and technologies for game development, ensuring they can adapt to the rapidly evolving industry landscape. The program reflects the university's strong commitment to innovation, research, and the application of knowledge to societal challenges through technology and gaming. This degree prepares students for a dynamic career in a growing field that intersects technology, education, health, and social innovation, and highlights Skövde’s reputation as a hub for game development education and research.