Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Game Design

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Game Design at Technological University Dublin is your gateway to understanding and shaping the future of interactive entertainment and serious games. You will explore the intricate relationship between game analysis, practical development, and theoretical game studies, preparing you for a career in this dynamic global industry. This undergraduate degree focuses on building essential industry skills, including programming, game design, digital media asset creation, project management, and game publishing, fostering a comprehensive understanding of both commercial and serious game development. You will develop the ability to analyse and implement diverse approaches to game design, gameplay mechanics, and user interface controls.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over four years, continuously engaging in game creation through both individual and team projects from Year 1 to Year 4. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, covering game design, programming, digital storytelling, and production studios, alongside developing crucial soft skills through collaborative teamwork. In Year 3, you will gain real-world experience through opportunities like internships, work placements, or study abroad exchanges. Your final year culminates in a major game project, demonstrating your full range of design and development expertise, and you will graduate with the practical experience and theoretical knowledge sought after by leading game studios and related technology sectors.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Game Design program provides a comprehensive foundation in game creation, from initial design principles and ludology to advanced programming and production techniques. Students will explore digital storytelling, critical play, and the societal context of games, culminating in a significant dissertation or major project. The curriculum also offers opportunities for practical experience through internships, work placements, and the development of game assets and engines, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the games industry.

1 Year One Semester 1

Design Practice Mandatory
Game Design 1 Mandatory
Game Production 1 Mandatory
Gameplay and Ludology Mandatory
Games Programming 1 Mandatory

2 Year One Semester 2

Game Design 1 Mandatory
Games Programming 1 Mandatory
Game Tools 1 Mandatory
Game Story and Character Design Mandatory
Critical Play Mandatory

3 Year Two Semester 1

Game Design 2 Mandatory
Game Programming 2 Mandatory
Game Tools 2 Mandatory
Digital Storytelling Mandatory
Introduction to Academic Writing Mandatory

4 Year Two Semester 2

Game Design 2 Mandatory
Games in Society, Culture and Context Mandatory
Game Programming 2 Mandatory
Production Studio Mandatory
Digital Storytelling Mandatory
Media Ethics Mandatory

5 Year Three Semester 1

Game Asset Design Elective
Games Engines 1 Elective
Internship Elective
Introduction to Media Theory Elective
Prototyping Studio Elective
Semester Away Elective
Work Placement Elective

6 Year Three Semester 2

Dissertation Research and Preparation Mandatory
Group Project Mandatory
Games Engines 2 Elective
Game Asset Implementation Elective

7 Year Four Semester 1

Dissertation Mandatory
Business & Distribution of Games Mandatory
Individual Major Project Mandatory
Narrative Design Elective
Sound and Audio Design Elective

8 Year Four Semester 2

Business & Distribution of Games Mandatory
Individual Major Project Mandatory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 63,523.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 644.00 - USD 3,372.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Grangegorman Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

86%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesAdvertising TechnologyCreative Production & Project ManagementIT Support & Systems AdministrationIndustrial & Mechanical EngineeringLean Manufacturing & Process ImprovementPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalResearch & Product DevelopmentRoad Transport & LogisticsWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Dell Technologies

Microsoft

Optum

Sky Group

The Irish Times

Why Study Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Game Design at Technological University Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Technological University Dublin in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Game Design at Technological University Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during breaks. No separate work permit is required, provided students are enrolled full-time in a qualifying program.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can take tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores are needed for each test, such as an overall Duolingo score of 120 or an IELTS score of 6.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue job titles such as Game Designer, Level Designer, Gameplay Programmer, Game Producer, or Quality Assurance Tester.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers topics like in-depth game analysis and practical game development experience. Students will also learn essential skills in programming, digital media asset creation, and project management.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Game Design intake occurs in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of this date for a smooth process.
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