Games Design MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on your journey to becoming a skilled Games Designer with the MA Games Design at the University for Creative Arts (UCA). This postgraduate degree is crafted for aspiring designers eager to delve into the intricate dynamics, mechanics, and storytelling that define compelling game experiences. You will explore the history of game development, deconstruct player experiences, and develop practical prototypes, all while considering the crucial role of collaborative working in professional game production. If you are passionate about understanding what makes games engaging and wish to contribute to the evolving world of interactive entertainment, this course offers a robust foundation.

This full-time, on-campus MA is delivered over one year, immersing you in a dynamic learning environment. You will engage with human-centred design principles to create intuitive and inclusive games, master the game design cycle through prototyping labs focusing on genre and affect, and investigate research methodologies to form your own hypotheses about game design's trajectory. Your studies culminate in a Final Major Project, where you will develop an original game design and enhance your professional industry presence. You will graduate with a portfolio and the critical understanding needed to pursue diverse career paths within the global games industry.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master's program in Games Design offers a comprehensive exploration of the field, beginning with foundational concepts in game design, game studies, and practical genre prototyping. Students will then delve into more advanced topics such as affect prototyping and human-centered design. The program culminates in a substantial final major project, providing an opportunity to synthesize learned skills and prepare for professional practice in the games industry.

1 Term One

Game Design
Game Studies
Prototyping Lab 1: Genre

2 Term Two

Prototyping Lab 2: Affect
Human Centred Design

3 Term Three

Final Major Project and Professional Practice

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,060.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 25,060.00

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

Customer Experience & SupportCybersecurityDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationFood Safety & Quality AssuranceLuxury Goods & AccessoriesRegulatory & Government AffairsTelecom Software & SystemsTextile & Fabric Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Apple

IBM

Marks & Spencer

Sainsbury's

Tesco

University of the Arts London

Why Study Games Design MA 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 MA 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 a separate work permit.

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 can provide scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 90 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Game Developers, Game Designers, Project Managers, or in Marketing roles.

What will I actually study in this course?

MA Game Design at UCA Farnham combines the latest creative practice and academic research, placing you at the cutting edge of the global games industry.

You'll be prepared for the needs of the digital games industry, as we guide you through the various aspects of game development in an industrial context, allied to a rigorous research programme exploring and applying the latest theory in game studies.

You'll develop your portfolio in large teams, culminating in a final major

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Games Design course at UCA Farnham has an intake in September each year, allowing students to start their advanced study at that time.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️