| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-01 | 2023-05-26 |
Program Overview
Falmouth University's Game Design MA program immerses students in the industry through team-based game development, industry-standard software, and expert guidance. The program emphasizes original game creation, industry context, and career preparation in game design and related fields. Students benefit from access to cutting-edge hardware and software, a dedicated game development studio, and a flexible application process.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
This master's course in Game Design focuses on pitching and prototyping your ideas, specializing in game design and the broader games industry context. From the first day, you will be actively developing a game in a team using industry-standard software, followed by a major project in the final term. This project can be solo, group-based, or a research piece.
Objectives:
- Deepen your knowledge of game design practices.
- Develop your skills to create original games.
- Gain the tools necessary for a career in games and media.
- Work with experienced practitioners with links to both industry and academia.
Outline:
Study Block One:
- Modules:
- Development Practice
- Prototyping for Games
Study Block Two:
- Modules:
- Experimental Game Design
- Game Development Project
Study Block Three:
- Modules:
- Major Project
Assessment:
- 100% coursework-based assessment.
- Assessments are composed of practical activities underpinned by critical analyses of workflows and practices applied in the module.
Teaching:
- Taught by an expert team specializing in gameplay programming, design, world building, software engineering and research.
- Industry experts with experience on titles like Arcana and Deadhaus Sonata.
- Learning environment mirrors the games industry, preparing students for a career in small game studios.
- Regular practical workshops, support sessions, and project supervision.
- Focus on developing fully-realized game development projects and professional portfolios.
Careers:
- Potential career options include game or level designers, app developers, product and software designers, and producers.
- Graduates have progressed to teaching and lecturing roles and founded their own game development studios.
Other:
- Access to industry-standard hardware and software used in the games industry, including Adobe and Autodesk suites.
- VR/AR lab with cutting-edge hardware like Hololens, Hololens 2, and Oculus Quest 2.
- Dedicated space in a well-resourced game development studio, open late during term time.
- Flexible application process, including games/systems developed, world building ideas, design work in other media.
Tuition fees 2024-25 £9,200 per year - full-time UK (£250 acceptance fee payable. This is deducted from tuition fees.) £17,950 - full-time EU/international (£500-£2,500 acceptance fee payable depending upon your status. This is deducted from tuition fees) Tuition fees for September 2025 will be confirmed in summer 2024. Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible. The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs
Falmouth University
Overview:
Falmouth University is a public university located in Cornwall, England, renowned for its creative arts and design programs. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as online study options. The university is known for its strong industry connections, professional-grade facilities, and inspiring location.
Services Offered:
Falmouth University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus accommodation options are available, offering modern and well-equipped spaces.Student Support:
The university offers a variety of support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Employability Service:
Falmouth University has a dedicated Employability Service that helps students develop their career skills and find employment opportunities.Student Voice:
The university encourages student feedback and participation through its Student Voice program.Study Abroad Exchanges:
Students have the opportunity to study abroad at partner institutions around the world.Virtual Experience:
Falmouth University offers a virtual experience platform for prospective students to explore the campus and learn more about the university.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Falmouth University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience, with:
Accommodation:
Modern and well-equipped accommodation options on and off-campus.Open Days:
Open Days are held regularly, allowing prospective students to experience campus life and meet staff and current students.Freshers' Week:
A dedicated week of events and activities designed to help new students settle in and make friends.Student Clubs and Societies:
A wide range of clubs and societies cater to diverse interests, providing opportunities for students to connect with like-minded individuals.Location:
Falmouth is situated in a beautiful and inspiring location, with easy access to the coast and surrounding countryside.Key Reasons to Study There:
Industry Connections:
Falmouth University has strong industry connections, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.Professional-Grade Facilities:
The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, workshops, and labs, designed to support creative learning and practice.Inspiring Location:
Falmouth's location in Cornwall offers a unique and inspiring environment for creative study, with access to stunning beaches, coastal landscapes, and a vibrant arts scene.Focus on Employability:
Falmouth University is committed to preparing students for successful careers, with a dedicated Employability Service and a strong focus on practical skills development.Academic Programs:
Falmouth University offers a wide range of academic programs, with strengths in:
Art & Design:
The university is renowned for its art and design programs, including animation, film, photography, graphic design, fashion, and textiles.Games:
Falmouth University has a dedicated Games Academy, offering programs in game design, development, and production.Business & Marketing:
The university offers programs in business, marketing, and entrepreneurship, with a focus on creativity and innovation.Computing:
Falmouth University offers programs in computing, including data science, robotics, and software development.English, Journalism & Writing:
The university offers programs in English, journalism, and creative writing, with a focus on practical skills and industry connections.Performance, Theatre & Music:
Falmouth University offers programs in performance, theatre, and music, with a focus on practical training and professional development.Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Undergraduate degree: Typically, you'll need an undergraduate degree of 2:2 or above, or equivalent experience.
- Formal or 'certified' learning: Entry is also possible with formal or 'certified' learning (such as training courses) and learning from work experience or self-study. This is called Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) and should have been gained within the last five years and be equivalent to the learning outcomes of the minimum entry qualifications.
- APL applicants using experience: Note that there is an application fee for entry with advanced standing or with exemption from specific modules or credit.
International Overseas Students (outside the EU):
- Undergraduate degree: The entry requirements are the same as for EU home students.
- English language proficiency: You'll need to demonstrate English language skills equivalent to IELTS Academic minimum score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening.
- Recognized language test: If English isn't your first language, you must take a recognized language test approved by the University.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening.
- Other recognized language tests: Equivalent scores in other recognized language tests may be accepted.
- Portfolio: The course website mentions that applicants should include a portfolio of appropriate work. This could include games/systems you’ve worked on or made yourself, ideas and worldbuilding for games you’d love to make, or any design work in other media.
- Interview: Applicants will be interviewed to discuss their suitability for the course and their portfolio. However, strong English language skills and a portfolio demonstrating your creative abilities are essential.
