Games Arts BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a dynamic journey with the Games Arts BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA). This undergraduate degree is crafted for aspiring artists who envision bringing virtual worlds and compelling characters to life through 2D and 3D art. You will delve into the core principles of games art, mastering essential techniques in 3D modelling, texturing, and digital illustration. This program is designed to equip you with the foundational research, design thinking, and development skills crucial for success in the competitive games and entertainment industries.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, this course offers a comprehensive learning experience that includes practical application through client briefs, board game design, and interactive narratives. You will enhance your creative process by documenting your work in sketchbooks and digital art documents, and gain invaluable industry insight through guest speakers and studio visits. The included Professional Practice Year provides a unique opportunity to undertake a placement, significantly boosting your CV and professional network. You will graduate with a robust portfolio and the confidence to pursue a career as a professional games artist.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) degree in Games Arts with a Professional Practice Year provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of game art creation. You will explore introductory concepts, interactive narratives, and client briefs in your first year, before delving into advanced workflows, environmental storytelling, and industry-focused projects in your second year. The program culminates in a significant final major project, allowing you to showcase your skills and conceptual understanding after an invaluable professional practice year.

1 Year One

Introduction to games arts 1
Equality diversity and inclusion
Board game design
Introduction to games arts 2
Client brief
Interactive narratives
ATOM activities
PLE digital outcome 1

2 Year Two

Games art workflows
The conscious practitioner
Environmental storytelling (electives)
Motion capture technologies (elective)
Games art pathway
Industry brief
Creature animation (elective)
Pervasive game studio (elective)
Virtual production studio (elective)
ATOM activities and PLE digital outcome

3 Professional Practice Year

4 Year Three

Final major project: pre-production
Final major project: critical and conceptual influences
Professional practice
Final major project: production

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,709.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 572.00 - USD 1,227.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on UCA Farnham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Curriculum & Instructional DesignData Science & AnalyticsEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationFood Science & TechnologyHigher Education & UniversitiesNetworking & Internet ServicesSecondary & High School EducationSoftware Development & EngineeringSupply Chain & Food Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Apple

IBM

Marks & Spencer

Sainsbury's

Tesco

University of the Arts London

Why Study Games Arts BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University for Creative Arts (UCA) in United Kingdom

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 Games Arts BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required, but part-time students cannot work.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by The Rookies.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you may take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 80 is needed, along with specific scores in each section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Game Artist, 3D Modeler, Concept Artist, Environment Artist, and Texture Artist.

What will I actually study in this course?

Is your imagination bursting with concepts for new worlds and characters? Then our practice-based BA (Hons) Games Arts degree course at UCA Farnham could be for you.

This course, which is accredited by The Rookies, focuses on workflows for 2D concept and 3D art for video games. You’ll develop skills in 3D modelling and texturing and connect them with your drawing skills to create pro-level games assets, like characters, environments and props which make your favourite games come to

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Games Arts BA (Hons) course is September each year. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your place.
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