Games Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year and Professional Practice Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 5 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on your journey into the dynamic world of interactive entertainment with the Games Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year and Professional Practice Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA). This comprehensive undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring game designers eager to shape compelling player experiences through innovative game design theory, development in game engines, and the creation of engaging 3D game assets. You will explore the fundamentals of game mechanics, interactive narratives, and the crucial elements of equality, diversity, and inclusion within creative practice, preparing you for a future in the ever-evolving games industry.

This full-time, on-campus program spans five years, beginning with an integrated foundation year to build essential creative and study skills. You will progress through core modules covering rapid game prototyping, environmental storytelling, and games production, culminating in a significant final major project that forms your graduate portfolio. The inclusion of a professional practice year offers invaluable industry experience through a creative industries placement. You will graduate with a robust portfolio, advanced skills in game engines and 3D modelling, and the confidence to pursue diverse career paths within the global games sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) in Games Design, featuring an integrated foundation and professional practice year, offers a comprehensive exploration of game creation. Students will delve into the fundamentals of game design, interactive narratives, and rapid prototyping, alongside essential production and industry-focused modules. The curriculum progresses through various stages of game development, culminating in a substantial final major project and practical professional experience.

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 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 20,407.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,407.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,407.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,407.00
Fifth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,407.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 102,039.00

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

Apparel Manufacturing & ProductionBroadband & Internet ServicesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesCustomer Experience & SupportFashion Design & Creative DirectionFashion Technology & E-CommerceNetworking & Internet ServicesPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalSoftware Development & EngineeringWireless & Mobile Communications

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 and 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 Design BA (Hons) with Integrated Foundation Year and Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

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 permit is needed.

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 take tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 72 is needed, with specific minimum scores in each section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Game Designers, Level Designers, Game Testers, Narrative Designers, or Production Assistants.

What will I actually study in this course?

Learn how to shape and enhance a player's gaming experience and fully develop exciting ideas on our holistic BA (Hons) Games Design degree course at UCA Farnham.

The role of the games designer is central to the development of any game – it's designers that create the rules, systems and mechanics that form the centre of any gaming experience. You’ll learn to prototype games using games engines, develop design documentation, conduct research, and create experiences. This course is all

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intakes for the Games Design BA (Hons) program occur every September. Ensure you apply on time to secure your place.
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