Games Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year

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

Course Overview

The Games Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA) is your pathway to shaping the future of interactive entertainment. In a rapidly expanding global industry, this course equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to design compelling game mechanics, immersive narratives, and engaging player experiences. You will explore core principles of game design theory, delve into industry-standard game engines, and develop your creative practice through hands-on projects. This program is ideal for aspiring designers eager to translate innovative ideas into tangible, playable realities within the dynamic world of games development.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, beginning with an integrated foundation year designed to build your confidence and core creative skills. Throughout your studies, you will engage in a blend of lectures, workshops, and practical studio sessions, progressing from fundamental concepts to advanced topics like rapid prototyping, client briefs, and interactive narratives. You will collaborate in simulated studio environments, develop a professional portfolio, and undertake a significant final major project. You will graduate prepared for diverse roles in the games industry, armed with a strong portfolio and the practical experience valued by employers.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This integrated foundation year program provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of game design. Students will explore fundamental concepts, develop practical skills in prototyping and production, and engage with interactive narratives and client briefs. The curriculum progresses through foundational modules, studio-based projects, and culminates in a significant final major project, preparing graduates for professional practice in the games industry.

1 Year One

Fundamentals of game design
Equality diversity and inclusion
Board game design
Opportunity week
Introduction to games production
Client brief
Interactive narratives
Atom activities
Ple digital outcome 1

2 Year Two

Rapid games prototyping
The conscious practitioner
Environmental storytelling (elective)
Motion capture technologies (elective)
Opportunity week
Games studio
Industry brief
Creature animation (elective)
Pervasive game studio (elective)
Virtual production studio (elective)
Atom activities and ple digital outcome

3 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 24,330.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,330.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,330.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,330.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 97,322.00

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

Data Science & AnalyticsFashion Marketing & Brand ManagementFashion Technology & E-CommerceFood Science & TechnologyInvestment Management & Asset ManagementLuxury Goods & AccessoriesRegulatory & Government AffairsSecondary & High School EducationSoftware Development & EngineeringWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Apple

IBM

Marks & Spencer

Sainsbury's

Tesco

University of the Arts London

Why Study Games Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation 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 Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Note that 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 English language requirements, you can choose from TOEFL (overall score of 72), IELTS (overall score of 5.5), or PTE (overall score of 59). Each test has specific requirements for listening, reading, speaking, and writing scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Game Designer, Level Designer, Game Producer, or Content Creator.

What will I actually study in this course?

In this course, you'll learn how to shape a player's gaming experience while developing pivotal skills in prototyping games and creating design documentation. The program prepares you for a career in the gaming industry with guidance from experienced lecturers.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the Games Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year is September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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