Game Design and Development (BA)

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

Course Overview

The Game Design and Development (BA) at Wilfrid Laurier University empowers you to shape the future of interactive entertainment, from video games to escape rooms. This program is ideal for aspiring creators who wish to blend artistic vision with technical skill, exploring how games can foster critical thinking, social engagement, and diverse representation. You will delve into core areas like critical play, game design, and graphic design, laying the groundwork for a career where you can innovate and push the boundaries of interactive media. This Bachelor of Arts degree offers a flexible pathway to tailor your studies to your specific career aspirations in the dynamic world of game development.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts degree is studied over four years, providing a comprehensive journey through the principles and practices of game design. Your experience will include hands-on projects in areas such as escape room design, web game development, and solo critical game development, culminating in a capstone project. You will have the opportunity to enhance your skills through electives in user experience design, English, or computer science, preparing you for diverse roles. Graduates will be equipped with a strong portfolio and the creative and technical acumen to pursue careers in game studios, interactive media, or related technology fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts program in Game Design and Development explores the multifaceted world of game creation, from foundational principles to advanced practice. Students will engage with critical analyses of games as art and social commentary, develop foundational design and storytelling skills, and gain experience in various development environments. The curriculum progresses to cover specialized topics such as ethics in game design, puzzle design, web development, and culminates in a capstone focused on games entrepreneurship.

1 First-Year Courses

Critical Play
Critical Game Design
Games as Art
Graphic Design Studio
The Engaged Citizen: Social and Environmental Justice
Cross-Media Storytelling
Designing Digital and Social Media

2 Sample First-Year Electives

Design Thinking
Leadership Foundations
Introduction to Psychology
UX Strategy

3 Sample Upper-Year Courses

Ethics in Game Design
Escape Room and Puzzle Design
Web Game Development
Solo Critical Game Development
Capstone in Games Entrepreneurship

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,481.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,481.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,481.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,481.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 101,927.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 730.00 - USD 949.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,981.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,582.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on Brantford Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsCloud Computing & InfrastructureCorporate Training & DevelopmentCustomer Experience & SupportHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringNursing & Allied HealthProduct Management & UXTalent & Artist ManagementVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BMO

BT Group

Conestoga College

Electronics Arts

Google Developer Groups

Outlier

Peel District School Board

Scotiabank

Why Study Game Design and Development (BA) at Wilfrid Laurier University

What makes this program stand out

May 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in May 2027

Life at Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada

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 Game Design and Development (BA) at Wilfrid Laurier University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. Additionally, students can work unlimited hours on-campus without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English proficiency requirement, you can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific score thresholds are required for each test; for example, Duolingo requires an overall score of 120.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Game Designers, Level Designers, Narrative Designers, QA Testers, and Visual Artists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The program focuses on creating engaging experiences through video games, board games, and escape rooms. You'll develop essential skills like creativity, visual design, and critical thinking while working in a collaborative game development environment.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Game Design and Development (BA) program has two intake months: May and September. Be sure to apply ahead of these dates to secure your spot.
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