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 is your gateway to shaping the future of interactive media, focusing on games as a powerful aesthetic and expressive form. You will explore critical analysis and creative practice, preparing you for emerging trends in both video and analog game industries across diverse platforms and distribution channels. This undergraduate degree is designed for students eager to develop games and playful media within an independent creative context, cultivating your unique artistic voice through a curriculum that bridges theoretical analysis with hands-on game development.

This full-time, on-campus BFA programme, studied over four years, immerses you in game studies, game design, and game development, alongside essential art and design principles. You will engage with foundational concepts in game interface design, level design, and rapid idea prototyping, while also exploring game aesthetics and critical play through courses like Games and Society and The Business of Games. Throughout your studies, you will build a portfolio through projects and a significant capstone experience, graduating with the creative and technical skills to pursue diverse career paths in the dynamic world of game design.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Fine Arts program in Game Design provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of creating interactive experiences. Students will explore core concepts such as game research methods, foundational design, rapid prototyping, and game studio collaboration. The curriculum also delves into specialized areas like game interface design, level design, concept development, and visual composition, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the gaming industry.

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
Principles of Board Game Development

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

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesBroadband & Internet ServicesClient Services & Account ManagementCreative Production & Project ManagementCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsEmergency Services & Disaster ResponseNetworking & Internet ServicesPerformance & Growth MarketingPrivate Security & Risk ManagementVocational & Technical Training

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 can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permits are needed for on-campus jobs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet English test requirements, such as a Duolingo overall score of 135 or an IELTS overall score of 7.5. Ensure you achieve the required scores in the respective sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Game Designers, Level Designers, Narrative Designers, or Game Artists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BFA in Game Design emphasizes critical analysis and creative practice in developing games. Students will explore various genres and learn about game content, platforms, and asset production.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Game Design, BFA program has intake months in January. Consider applying early to secure your spot and prepare for your studies.
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