Game Development BA(Hons)

Program Overview

Falmouth University's Game Development BA(Hons) program equips students with the skills and knowledge to become successful game developers. Ranked as the top university for game design in England, the program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, mirroring real-world game development studios. Students collaborate in multi-skilled teams, specializing in one of five focus areas: Art, Design, Programming, Writing, or Animation. The program's industry-focused curriculum, guest speakers, and state-of-the-art facilities prepare graduates for a variety of careers in the gaming industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Game Development BA(Hons) program at Falmouth University equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful game developers. Ranked as the number one university for game design in England by The Princeton Review in 2023, the program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, mirroring real-world game development studios. Students collaborate in multi-skilled teams, specializing in one of five focus areas: Art, Design, Programming, Writing, or Animation. This three-year program allows students to start building games from day one, working on progressively challenging projects as they progress through the course. The program's design reflects a real-world game development studio environment, encouraging teamwork, communication, and collaboration while fostering individual specialization and creativity.

Outline:

Year One:

• Students get a holistic introduction to game development, learning about game creation, project management, pipelines, ideation, and game engagement theories.
• Core modules cover topics such as development foundations, digital creativity, and multidisciplinary teamwork.
• Students choose their specialization path, focusing on one of the five areas: Art, Design, Programming, Writing, or Animation.

Year Two:

• Students delve deeper into their chosen specialization, developing specific skills and expanding their knowledge base.
• They tackle larger game projects in multi-skilled teams, experimenting with various approaches and creating innovative features.

Year Three:

• The final year focuses on developing a complete and potentially publishable game as part of a team.
• Students pitch their game to industry professionals, receive feedback, and refine their work.
• They conduct research relevant to their project and build an online portfolio showcasing their skills and expertise.
• Modules like Experience Design, Future Skills, and Future of Games equip students with professional and entrepreneurial skills, preparing them for the industry.

Assessment:

All assessments at Falmouth University are 100% coursework based. Students are continuously assessed on group projects throughout their studies through a group working strategy. Additional assessment methods may include:

• Game making
• Visual, verbal, and written assignments
• Portfolio of project work

Teaching:

• The program utilizes a "digitally enhanced learning & teaching" approach.
• Students receive primarily in-person instruction through seminars, tutorials, and studio teaching, with specific elements delivered online either live (synchronously) or pre-recorded (asynchronously).
• Industry professionals contribute as guest speakers, providing valuable insights into the current state and future trends of the gaming industry.
• The program boasts a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of game development.
• Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a dedicated, extensively equipped games development studio, industry-standard software and hardware, motion capture labs, and more.

Careers:

Graduates of the Game Development BA(Hons) program are equipped to pursue a variety of careers in the gaming industry. Potential career paths include:

• Level Designer
• Animator
• Game Designer
• Games Writer
• Producer
• Gameplay Programmer
• VFX Artist
• 3D Artist
• Technical Artist
• UI/UX Designer
The program's emphasis on real-world experience, collaboration, and industry connections gives graduates a competitive edge in the job market, with many securing positions at leading gaming companies like Supermassive Games, Mediatonic, and King.

Other:

• The program offers optional opportunities for professional placements during the second or third year of the program.
• Students can choose to complete an Integrated Foundation Year before commencing their three-year degree, providing them with a strong foundation in the principles of game development.

Conclusion:

The Game Development BA(Hons) program at Falmouth University provides a comprehensive and industry-focused education, preparing students for successful careers in the dynamic world of game development. The program's emphasis on collaboration, real-world experience, and industry connections, coupled with its state-of-the-art facilities and expert faculty, makes it a top choice for aspiring game developers.