| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MA in Games Design at Canterbury Christ Church University equips students with the skills to create games, regardless of their background. Through a blend of theory and hands-on experience, students gain a comprehensive understanding of game design principles, software, and collaboration techniques. The program culminates in a final project where students develop and market their own video game, preparing them for careers in the game industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview:
The MA in Games Design program at Canterbury Christ Church University aims to equip students with the necessary skills to create games, regardless of their prior knowledge in the creative or technical fields. It's designed for individuals passionate about game creation, who possess expertise in areas like creative writing, music, illustration, or prior game design experience.
Objectives:
- Develop and apply existing skills to create and launch finished games.
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of game design principles and techniques.
- Acquire proficiency in various game design software and tools.
- Collaborate effectively with fellow designers and developers.
Description:
The MA Games Design program offers students a comprehensive and practical approach to game creation. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their learnings to real-world projects. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual/group tutorials, students acquire a solid understanding of various game design aspects, including narrative design, level design, character design, and game mechanics. The program emphasizes collaboration, encouraging students to work effectively in teams, mirroring the professional game development environment.
Outline:
Course Duration:
1 year (full-time)
Program Structure:
6 core modules delivered over the academic year
Course Schedule:
Intensive in-person sessions on Canterbury campus alongside online interactive and self-directed learning
Modules:
- Creativity, Culture, and Community (20 credits)
- Thinking Like a Game Designer (20 credits)
- Digital Game Development Essentials (20 credits)
- Collaborative Practice (40 credits)
- Professional Development (20 credits)
- Final Project (60 credits)
Module Descriptions:
- Creativity, Culture, and Community: Explores the cultural context and impact of video games, examining their relationship with broader cultural movements and communities
- Thinking Like a Game Designer: Introduces core principles of game design, delving into game mechanics, player engagement, and effective storytelling
- Digital Game Development Essentials: Provides students with hands-on experience in using industry-standard game development software
- Collaborative Practice: Emphasizes teamwork and project management skills through collaborative game development projects
- Professional Development: equips students with essential skills and knowledge for successful careers in the game industry
- Final Project: A culminating project where students conceive, design, develop, and market their own video game
Assessment:
The MA Games Design program utilizes a variety of assessment methods throughout the academic year, including
- Portfolio work
- Individual and group projects
- Reports and essays
- Presentations
Teaching:
The program is delivered by experienced game design educators, theorists, and industry professionals. The teaching approach balances theoretical foundations with hands-on experience through personalized group and individual tutorials. The program utilizes a blended learning format, combining intensive in-person sessions with interactive online learning modules, enhancing collaboration and engagement.
Careers:
- Game Designer
- Level Designer
- Narrative Designer
- Programmer
- Artist
- Sound Designer
- QA Tester
- Project Manager
- Marketing Specialist
- Educator
- UK: £9,090
- Overseas: £15,500
- Part-time: £4,545
- Full-time with Extended Masters: £15,500 + £3,500
Canterbury Christ Church University
Overview:
Canterbury Christ Church University is a public university located in Canterbury, Kent, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, full-time, part-time, apprenticeship, and short courses designed to meet real-world needs. The university is known for its commitment to providing a transformative education that changes lives and shapes sustainable futures for its community.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university emphasizes the importance of student life and experience. It provides opportunities for students to join a community, engage in various activities, and develop their skills. The university also offers support services to help students succeed in their studies.
Key Reasons to Study There:
High graduate employment rates:
Canterbury Christ Church University is ranked No. 1 in the UK for graduates in employment, with 3,000 or more graduates.Focus on real-world needs:
The university's courses are designed to meet the demands of the modern workforce.Transformative education:
The university believes in the power of education to change lives and shape sustainable futures.Strong community:
The university fosters a welcoming and supportive community for its students.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs across various subject areas. These programs include undergraduate, postgraduate, full-time, part-time, apprenticeships, and short courses.
Other:
- The university has been awarded a Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF).
- The university is actively involved in promoting diversity and inclusion, with initiatives like Black History 365 and Black on the Square.
- The university has a strong focus on research and innovation, with academics contributing to various fields.
Entry Requirements
Undergraduate Degree
- UK Applicants: An undergraduate degree at 2:2 (lower second) or above.
- International Applicants: An undergraduate degree at a comparable standard to the UK's 2:2.
Alternative Qualifications & Experience
- Alternative qualifications such as relevant Level 4 or equivalent qualifications may be considered.
- Substantial relevant experience may be considered as an alternative to formal qualifications.
English Language Requirements
- International students who are non-native English speakers must demonstrate English language proficiency at a level equivalent to IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component.
Language Proficiency Requirements
IELTS
Overall score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in each component.
Other Accepted English Language Tests
- The university may accept other English language tests as equivalent to IELTS 6.5.
