Games Design 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 the BA (Hons) Games Design with Professional Practice Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA), a course designed for aspiring creators who aim to shape the future of interactive entertainment. In a dynamic industry where innovation drives player engagement, you will explore the core principles of game design, from conceptualisation and documentation to development in industry-standard game engines. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students passionate about crafting compelling game mechanics, narrative structures, and immersive player experiences, preparing you to contribute meaningfully to the global games sector.

This full-time, on-campus programme is studied over four years, including a dedicated Professional Practice Year for invaluable industry experience. You will engage in hands-on projects, such as board game design, client-facing briefs, and rapid prototyping, utilising tools like 3D asset development and various game engines. Throughout your studies, you will develop critical skills in interactive narratives, environmental storytelling, and potentially motion capture technologies. You will graduate with a robust portfolio and the practical expertise needed to pursue diverse career paths within the creative and digital industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Games Design with a Professional Practice Year offers a comprehensive exploration of game creation. Across the first two years, students will delve into the fundamentals of game design, interactive narratives, and rapid prototyping, alongside crucial production and industry-focused modules. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through client and industry briefs, culminating in a significant final major project in the third year. The inclusion of a Professional Practice Year provides invaluable real-world 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 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

Accounting & AuditingAdult & Continuing EducationBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCustomer Experience & SupportCybersecurity & Network SecurityFashion Design & Creative DirectionFood Science & TechnologyProduct Management & UXSpecial & Inclusive EducationSupply Chain & Food Logistics

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 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 Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

Can I work while studying?

Students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed while studying.

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 requirements, you can choose from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores, each with specific minimum scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Ensure you meet these criteria to be eligible for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as Game Designer, Level Designer, Narrative Designer, UI/UX Designer, and Gameplay Programmer.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on enhancing player experiences and developing game prototypes using engines. You'll learn about design documentation and research, all guided by industry-experienced lecturers.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Games Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year starts in September. Ensure you apply before the deadline to secure your place.
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