Northeastern University United States

Game Design, BFA

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

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design at Northeastern University equips you to explore games as a powerful aesthetic and expressive medium. In a field rapidly expanding across diverse platforms and audiences, you will develop the skills to communicate complex ideas and emotions through interactive media. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring creators who are passionate about the art and craft of game development, encouraging you to cultivate your unique creative voice through critical analysis and hands-on practice in game studies and game design.

You will study full-time on campus over four years, engaging with a curriculum that spans foundational game design, game development with prototyping, and critical play. Through courses like Foundations of Game Design, Rapid Idea Prototyping for Games, and Game Interface Design, you will build practical skills. Your learning experience will culminate in a significant Game Design Capstone project, allowing you to apply your expertise. You will graduate prepared for diverse career pathways in the independent creative sector and the broader gaming industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Fine Arts program in Game Design offers a comprehensive curriculum covering foundational art and design principles, the societal impact of games, and essential research methodologies. Students will explore core game design concepts, rapid prototyping, interface design, level architecture, and concept development, alongside practical experience in game studios and animation tools. The program also delves into the business aspects of the gaming industry and culminates in a capstone project, with opportunities for specialized study through electives in experimental game design.

1 Required Courses

Art and Design at Northeastern
Games and Society
Introduction to Game Research Methods
Foundations of Game Design
Game Studio
Rapid Idea Prototyping for Games
Prototyping with Code and Lab for ARTG 2262
Game Interface Design
Level Design and Game Architecture
Game Concept Development
Animation Basics and Animation Tools
Elements of Visual Composition (with optional ARTF 1221)
Making with Form and Materials and Making with Form and Materials Tools
Making with Video, Sound, and Animation and Making with Video, Sound, and Animation Tools
The Business of Games
Game Design Capstone

2 Electives

Experimental Game Design

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 271,960.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,500.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Boston Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Cloud Computing & InfrastructureCreative & ContentEdTech & E-LearningEmergency Services & Disaster ResponseIT Support & Systems AdministrationPerformance & Growth MarketingPrivate Security & Risk ManagementSecondary & High School EducationSocial Media & Community ManagementSoftware Development & Engineering

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Boston Public Schools

General Dynamics Information Technology

Google

Microsoft

Northeastern University

Why Study Game Design, BFA at Northeastern University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Moderate Application response time

Northeastern University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Northeastern University in United States

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, BFA at Northeastern University

Can I work while studying?

International students may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn't require additional permits.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language test scores. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with designated minimum scores required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Game Designers, Level Designers, Gameplay Programmers, Narrative Designers, and Production Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design emphasizes critical analysis and creative practice. Students explore games as an expressive medium while developing their unique creative voices through diverse genres and contexts.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Game Design BFA program is January. Students interested in applying should prepare their materials in advance.
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