Abu Dhabi University United Arab Emirates

Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Design

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon February 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Design at Abu Dhabi University is your gateway to a dynamic and rapidly expanding creative industry. If you are passionate about interactive entertainment and eager to shape the future of digital experiences, this program is designed for you. You will delve into the core principles of game mechanics, narrative design, and digital art, learning to conceptualize and build engaging worlds. This undergraduate degree provides a comprehensive understanding of game development, preparing you to address challenges in areas like AI, multiplayer systems, and immersive technologies.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over four years, offering a progressive learning journey through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. You will work with industry-standard software like Unity and Unreal Engine, developing skills in 2D and 3D production, gameplay programming, and UI/UX design. Through extensive project work, including a significant capstone project and internship opportunities, you will gain invaluable real-world experience. Graduates will be well-prepared for diverse career paths in game design, development, and production roles within the global video game industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Design program provides a comprehensive foundation in game creation, from introductory concepts and programming fundamentals to advanced 3D modeling, animation, and AI. Students will explore game mechanics, narrative design, UI/UX, and audio design, alongside essential general education courses. The curriculum culminates in a capstone project and internship experiences, preparing graduates for professional roles in the dynamic video game industry.

1 Year 1 / Sem 1

Introduction to video game design Compulsory
Fundamentals of programming Compulsory
Digital art & design I Compulsory
English communication I (Gen Ed) Compulsory
UAE society & culture (Gen Ed) Compulsory

2 Year 1 / Sem 2

Game mechanics & systems Compulsory
Object-oriented programming Compulsory
Digital art & design II Compulsory
English communication II (Gen Ed) Compulsory
Critical thinking (Gen Ed) Compulsory

3 Year 2 / Sem 3

Game storytelling & narrative Compulsory
2D game production Compulsory
UI/UX in games Compulsory
Computer applications (Gen Ed) Compulsory
Statistics for design Compulsory

4 Year 2 / Sem 4

3D modeling & animation Compulsory
Gameplay programming Compulsory
Game audio & sound design Compulsory
Ethics in digital media (Gen Ed) Compulsory
Elective I (e.g., AR/VR fundamentals) Compulsory

5 Year 3 / Sem 5

AI & game behavior Compulsory
Level design & environment Compulsory
Advanced 3D production Compulsory
Elective II (e.g. mobile game dev) Compulsory
Internship / field experience I Compulsory

6 Year 3 / Sem 6

Multiplayer game development Compulsory
Game testing & quality assurance Compulsory
Elective III (e.g. serious games) Compulsory
Elective IV (Free Elective) Compulsory
Internship / field experience II Compulsory

7 Year 4 / Sem 7

Capstone project I – preproduction Compulsory
Professional practice in game design Compulsory
Elective V (e.g. game marketing) Compulsory
Free elective Compulsory
Senior seminar I Compulsory

8 Year 4 / Sem 8

Capstone project II – production Compulsory
Capstone project III – postproduction Compulsory
Elective VI (e.g. gamification) Compulsory
Free elective Compulsory
Senior seminar II / portfolio Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

15% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 13,232.00 USD 15,567.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,567.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,567.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,567.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 59,934.00 USD 62,270.00

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

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentData Science & AnalyticsEnergy Equipment & ServicesEnergy Storage & TechnologyHotel & Accommodation ManagementMaritime & ShippingNuclear EnergyOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionRefining & Petrochemicals

Top Employers Hiring for this course

ETIHAD

Endless Studio

Google Developer Groups

Institute of Applied Technology

Ministry of Education – UAE

TAQA Distribution

TAQA Transmission

Taaleem

Why Study Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Design at Abu Dhabi University

What makes this program stand out

February 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in February 2027

Life at Abu Dhabi University in United Arab Emirates

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 in Video Game Design at Abu Dhabi University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 15 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during breaks. A separate work permit and university permission are required.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Commission for Academic Accreditation.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various careers, such as Game Designer, Level Designer, Narrative Developer, or Interactive Media Producer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This cutting-edge program, designed and delivered in partnership with Rubika School in France, equips students with the creative, technical, and industry-driven expertise needed to design, develop, and produce engaging video game experiences.

Combining theory with hands-on practice, the program covers essential aspects of game design, from level design and game mechanicstonarrative development and interactive media production. Students will master

When can I start — what are the intake months?

This program has two intake months: February and August. Make sure to apply ahead of these months to secure your place.
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