The Best Undergraduate Gaming Studies at UK Universities

If you are passionate about taking your interest in gaming to the next level and want to make a career out of it, then the UK is the place to be. The UK gaming industry is one of the biggest in the world, and not only can you study some of the world’s best gaming degrees in the UK, but you can also find excellent, high-paying jobs when you have what it takes to stand out in the competitive UK job market.

UK graduates have a lot to offer to employers thanks to their interaction with the best staff and students from the world over and being in close contact with students from related disciplines such as programming and artificial intelligence.  About 200 gaming courses are offered at undergraduate level in the UK, often within the Computer Science departments, and range widely from games design and esports to digital games theory and games journalism.

Learn more about the top 10 game design universities and degrees below, and begin your application by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK today.

Top 10 Universities to Study Game Design in the UK for Indian Students 

Below is the list of the top ten universities in the UK to study game design, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.

1. University of the Arts London

Students will learn about coding and 3D modelling and emphasise creativity and innovation in game design at University of the Arts London and are encouraged to regularly generate new concepts and develop original ideas into playable games, honing their design and development skills sought after by leading design and software companies worldwide.

The combination of quality education, practical experience, and financial support makes the University of the Arts London an attractive choice for Indian students aspiring to excel in game design.

• Course to Consider: BA (Hons) Games Design
• Course Fees: £28,570 per year
• Entry Requirements: Students must have an A Level at grade C or above in related academic qualification, personal statement, IB diploma at 24 points minimum and English language proficiency through tests like IELTS with a score of 6.0 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking

2. Glasgow Caledonian University

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is an ideal choice for a Games Development degree in the UK due to its advanced curriculum, industry connections, and student support services. GCU's leading position in Scotland for Animation and Game Design, as recognised by the Guardian University Guide 2024, underscores its excellence in the field. Moreover, the course holds Screenskills accredit, ensuring high-quality education aligned with industry standards.

GCU offers a specialised curriculum with a basic understanding of two streams: game design and games software development. It will provide in-depth training in critical areas such as game narrative, user psychology, artificial intelligence, and engine-based development. Additionally, students can undertake industry placements or study abroad through Erasmus exchanges, enhancing their practical experience and global perspective.

• Course to Consider: BSc (Hons) Games Development
• Course Fees: £14,500
• Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a UCAS Tariff: 96,  A-Levels and IELTS score of 6.0 with no element below 5.5 (or equivalent)

3. Canterbury Christ Church University

Canterbury Christ Church University is a top destination for game design education in the UK due to its innovative bachelor's Games Design program. The university boasts an impressive 93% student satisfaction rate, ensuring a high-quality learning experience, as evidenced by the National Student Survey 2023. Students can materialise their artistic expression by creating indie games under expert academic guidance with industry ties. After completing their course, 100% of Games Design graduates were in work or further study for 15 months, according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023, enhancing employability prospects.

The course emphasises developing technical and creative skills, preparing students for diverse professions in the gaming industry. Students receive a comprehensive education tailored to meet the demands of the evolving gaming landscape with a focus on games psychology, industry insights, and broader gaming culture.

• Course to Consider: BA (Hons) Games Design
• Course Fees: £15,500 
• Entry Requirements: Students must have A Levels- BBC, IB: 29 points, and IELTS score. 

4. Birmingham City University

Birmingham City University's BA (Hons) Video Game Design program stands out as a top 5 choice in the UK according to Guardian League Table 2024. The accelerated two-year format offers students a rare opportunity to obtain a prestigious degree in a shorter timeframe, saving time and resources. The faculty comprises industry practitioners with over 100 years of collective experience in renowned gaming franchises like EA's 'Battlefield' and Sega's 'Sonic', ensuring students receive expert guidance and mentorship.

Moreover, the course emphasises practical learning through numerous projects with input from industry partners such as Codemasters, Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe, and Rockstar North, enhancing students' real-world skills and industry connections. BCU's accolades, including winning the 'Best Educational Initiative and Talent Development' at the TIGA Games Industry Awards 2023, attest to the university's commitment to excellence in game design education.

• Course to Consider: Video Game Design - BA (Hons)
• Course Fees: £17,710      
• Entry Requirements: Students must have 120 UCAS points, A Level- BBB, IB Diploma: minimum of 28 points overall, and an IELTS score.

5. Northumbria University Newcastle

Northumbria University Newcastle stands out as a top choice for the Games Computing domain in the UK due to its exceptional academic reputation and student-centric approach. Northumbria's £7 million Computer and Information Sciences building, inaugurated in 2018, is dedicated to computing students, offering eco-friendly and sustainable infrastructure conducive to learning. Students benefit from access to dedicated computing areas with modern PC, Mac, and Linux machines, award-winning library resources and study spaces.

Additionally, Northumbria's impressive rankings affirm its academic excellence. Computer Science and Informatics ranked 12th in the UK for research power, and Information Technology & Systems ranked 4th in the Complete University Guide for 2024. Furthermore, the university's commitment to teaching quality and student experience, evidenced by its 2nd ranking in the UK for Information Systems & Management, ensures a supportive and enriching learning environment for Indian students.

• Course to Consider: Games Computing BSc (Hons)
• Course Fees: £18,250
• Entry Requirements: Students must have A-level, IB scores, 112 UCAS Tariff points, and an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component.

6. University of Salford

The University of Salford Manchester is a top choice in the UK for a bachelor Games Design and Production course due to its comprehensive curriculum to prepare students for employment in the digital creative industries. The course offers a perfect blend of artistic creativity and technical proficiency, providing students with a solid game production and programming foundation. Additionally, the optional modules allow for specialisation in various aspects of game development, catering to individual interests and career aspirations.

The university's optional placement year provides invaluable real-world experience, allowing students to apply their skills in professional settings and gain insight into industry practices. This hands-on learning environment equips students with the practical knowledge and expertise sought by employers in the gaming industry.

• Course to Consider: BSc (Hons) Games Design and Production
• Course Fees: £17,040.00per year
• Entry Requirements: Students must have an English and maths GCSE grade C/grade 4 or above, UCAS tariff points: 96 - 112 points, A Levels, IB: 28 points and an IELTS score of 6.0, with no element below 5.5, is proof of this

7. Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University's undergraduate Games Design program is a top choice in the UK, offering Indian students practical education in game design. With a focus on building a solid portfolio and specialised skill sets through activities like the 'Game a Week' challenge, students receive comprehensive preparation for the industry.

Moreover, the School of Digital Arts encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, providing a dynamic environment for skill development. Manchester's vibrant creative sector, including opportunities in web design, visual effects, and VR/AR, offers promising career prospects post-graduation. The university provides various scholarships like the International Postgraduate Scholarship and Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship, easing financial burdens for Indian students.

• Course to Consider: BSc (Hons) Games Design
• Course Fees: £20,000 per year
• Entry Requirements: Students must have an IB Diploma with a minimum of 26 points overall or 112 UCAS Tariff points from three Higher Level subjects and an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no individual element below 5.5

8. Coventry University

Coventry University is a top choice for the game design domain in the UK due to its advanced curriculum, industry connections, and innovative approach to education. The program emphasises practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, ensuring students are well-prepared for the demands of the gaming industry. The university provides a conducive learning environment for aspiring game designers with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty members.

Indian students stand to benefit significantly from studying at Coventry University, as it offers various scholarships specifically designed for international students. Coventry's strong ties with industry partners also provide valuable networking opportunities and potential internships, enhancing students' employability upon graduation. 

• Course to Consider: Games Design and Development BA (Hons)
• Course Fees: £19,850
• Entry Requirements: Students have completed Year X with an average of 65%, Completion of Year XI with an average of 50%, Completion of Year XII with an average of 40% and IELTS score.

9. University of Hertfordshire

The University of Hertfordshire's bachelor's 3D Games Art & Design program is a leading choice in the UK, boasting impressive statistics and features. The university's gaming program is recognised for its excellence, with a high employability rate among graduates, averaging over 96%.

Moreover, the university provides substantial financial assistance through scholarships such as the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship for Excellence, which offers up to £4,000 to high-achieving international students. With advanced facilities and a curriculum designed in collaboration with industry experts, students gain practical skills using state-of-the-art software and technology. It ensures they are well-prepared for the demands of the gaming industry upon graduation.

• Course to Consider: BA (Hons) 3D Games Art & Design
• Course Fees: £15500
• Entry Requirements: Students must have UCAS points: 112-120, an interview, and an IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band

10. University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth stands out as a top destination for Computer game art in the UK, offering a comprehensive curriculum and modern facilities tailored to the needs of aspiring game designers. Students here develop traditional art skills while gaining proficiency in 3D art using industry-standard tools like Unreal Engine. The university's Centre for Creative Immersive and Extended Reality (CCIXR) provides access to highly developed technologies, fostering innovation and creativity.

For Indian students, the University of Portsmouth offers the opportunity to enhance their skills while immersing themselves in a vibrant academic community. The university's Graduate Showcase also provides a platform for students to exhibit their final-year work, impressing potential employers. Indian students may also benefit from scholarships such as the Vice-Chancellor's Global Development Scholarship, supporting their academic journey in the UK.

• Course to Consider: Computer Games Art BA (Hons)
• Course Fees: £17,900 a year (₹18.71 Lakhs)
• Entry Requirements: Students must have 112-120 UCAS points to include a minimum of 2 A levels, IB: 25, and English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5

Study Gaming in the UK

Give the best possible start to your career by studying gaming at a UK university. Start your application by arranging your free consultation with one of our expert consultants today.

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