Nottingham Trent University United Kingdom

Games Design BSc

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Games Design BSc at Nottingham Trent University is designed for aspiring creators eager to shape the future of interactive entertainment. You will explore the core principles of gameplay and game mechanics, level design, and narrative development, learning to craft compelling player experiences. This undergraduate degree provides a robust foundation in game theory, digital art, and programming, preparing you to address the evolving commercial, ethical, and societal impacts of gaming. If you are passionate about understanding and creating engaging digital worlds, this course offers a direct path into the dynamic games industry.

Studied full-time on campus over three years, your journey will involve hands-on projects, from tabletop games to complex 3D environments using industry-standard game engines. You will collaborate with Games Art students in the Games Design Studio, tackle real-world briefs in CoLab, and develop your unique vision through a substantial final year project. You will graduate with a portfolio showcasing your mastery of polygonal modelling, event programming, and system design, equipped for diverse career paths in games development, digital art, and creative technology.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Games Design program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the essential skills for a career in the games industry. Across three years, students will explore foundational concepts in gameplay, game studies, and 3D digital art, alongside practical programming for games. The program progresses to advanced topics such as system and level design, collaborative studio projects, and research-driven exploration, with opportunities for specialization through optional modules. The final year culminates in a significant games design project, screen arts collaboration, and an introduction to games entrepreneurship, preparing graduates for professional practice.

1 Year One

Introducing gameplay
Games studies
Introducing 3D digital art
Programming gameplay

2 Year Two

System and level design
Games design studio
CoLab: research, exploration and risk-taking
Optional module Programme Elective slots available

3 Final year

Games design project
Screen arts collaboration
Games entrepreneurship

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,263.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,263.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,263.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 72,789.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 514.00 - USD 1,472.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,900.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 4,833.00
Estimated Total USD 7,734.00 - USD 12,083.00

Living cost estimates are based on Nottingham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingCybersecurity & Network SecurityData Science & AnalyticsDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducational Support ServicesIT Support & Systems AdministrationLuxury Goods & AccessoriesNutrition & DieteticsTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BT Group

Cloud Imperium Games

IBM

Marks & Spencer

National Trust

Next

Nvidia

Sainsbury's

Why Study Games Design BSc at Nottingham Trent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Nottingham Trent University 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 BSc at Nottingham Trent University

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in a Degree course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can score at least 73 on TOEFL or 6.0 on IELTS. Each test has specific minimum scores for listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Game Designers, Level Designers, Gameplay Programmers, Technical Artists, or Visual Effects Artists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course enhances your technical skills in game design and programming. You'll collaborate with artists and work on gameplay mechanics and level design to create engaging experiences.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Games Design BSc course has an intake in September each year. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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