Postgraduate taught programme
MA
Game Design
Take your game design skills to the next level. Refine 3D modelling, 2D art, animation, level design and coding skills, guided by industry experts. You'll have access to high-spec gaming PCs, VR headsets and the latest technology.Industry-connected game design practice
Develop your skills through a collaborative, project-based approach that combines game design theory with practical experimentation. Work on live briefs, competitions and projects with local, national and international partners, while learning from academics and practitioners with active professional and research networks.
Specialist skills and emerging technologies
Build expertise across areas including 2D and 3D design, animation, technical artistry, coding, sound, storytelling, character and environment design. Experiment with game engines, immersive media, AR/VR, sensors and digital fabrication, and access high-spec gaming PCs, VR headsets and a 360° immersive vision theatre.
Personalised professional pathway
Shape your degree around your interests and ambitions, with opportunities to specialise in areas such as Game Art, Game and Play Research or Game Technologies. Develop your professional profile while learning about market research, business models, agile methodologies and industry workflows, culminating in a major project.
Details
Year 1
Develop core skills, analysing and sharing game design methodologies and exploring technologies, while grounding these practical and creative perspectives with theory. In your second semester, you research and refine skills within a chosen area – such as 2D design, 3D modelling, technical artistry, coding, sound, storytelling, character and environment design – to develop a distinctive practice and build a portfolio around this. Alongside this you research the games industry as well as engage in development of your professional profile.
Competitions, live briefs and collaboration with local, national and international agencies are also a feature. Finally, you embark upon a major project, in which a game is developed through to completion and marketing. Working in the format of prototype businesses this stage incorporates market research, business models, agile methodologies and industry workflows.
Core modules
ADA7300
Research Project / Dissertation
60 credits
This module supports students’ delivery of their final research project / dissertation through combinations of group and individual work. It includes broader disciplinary research skills, methods and ethical practices, as well as subject-specific supervisory arrangements for each students’ research interests. This can include practice-based, text-based or entrepreneurial research outputs.
100% Coursework
MAGD7101
Playful Making
30 credits
Students build game creation skills through playful experimentation, exploring design and communication strategies such as pitching, storyboarding and prototyping. Game design theory is put into practice through creative challenges. Students experiment games creation with different technologies, from cardboard to game engines, and the possibilities of experimental gaming platforms such as cities and built environments.
100% Coursework
MAGD7201
Game Studies
30 credits
Students research and analyse game design theory concepts, investigating topics such as gamification, serious games, playbour, ludology, urban gaming, non-linear narrative, representation, realism and simulation, as well as critical research methods. The module culminates in an essay examining a particular game design concept and critiquing its use within a range of game texts.
100% Coursework
ADA7201
Creative Entrepreneurship
Turn your creativity into professional impact. In this module, you'll collaborate with industry partners to shape and deliver real-world projects in the creative sector. Build entrepreneurial skills, explore your professional identity, and develop work with social, environmental and economic relevance.
100% Coursework
Optional modules
ADA7102E
Immersive Media and XR
30 credits
This module will provide students with the creative and technical skills to develop their projects based on experimentation with immersive media and extended reality (XR) technologies. Through a combination of technical inductions, workshops, lectures, and self-directed work in our Immersive Media Lab, students will be able to experiment with 360 Video, sonic environments, AR/VR, sensors, and game engines.
100% Coursework
ADA7103E
Spatial Storytelling
30 credits
Students will explore using narrative space to create emotionally engaging audience experiences by experimenting with a range of spatial storytelling methods and technologies. The development of skills as narrative architects and storytellers in immersive, interactive, locative, game, sound, art, film and/or performance-based experiences and installations will result in the creation of a spatial storytelling project.
100% Coursework
ADA7106E
Interaction Design
30 credits
This module will provide students with the creative and technical skills to apply interaction design strategies to develop and support their practice across a range of disciplines. Drawing from the technologies, techniques and tools typical of the Smart City, ubiquitous, mobile and wearable computing and Internet of Things (IoT), students will design and develop prototype systems that allow them to explore key issues relating to our lived environment.
100% Coursework
MAGD7102
Game Design Methods
30 credits
This module focuses on project-based work, upskilling students without prior experience in the area. Students learn foundational theories, concepts and creative methods underpinning the game design practice. Based on a series of lectures, students will engage in a creative enquiring process, where each aspect of a game is conceptually challenged, producing actionable design ideas whilst solidifying knowledge.
100% Coursework
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Careers, industry and research
Develop the creative, technical and professional skills needed for careers across the games, creative and technology industries. Graduates can pursue roles including game designer, game artist, developer or producer, while transferable skills in design, programming and digital technologies can open opportunities across other creative and technology sectors.
You’ll develop your professional profile through live briefs, competitions and collaborative projects with local, national and international partners. You’ll also build valuable connections through a programme of visiting specialists, public events and field trips, as well as engagement with the wider South West creative community. You’ll have opportunities to access facilities and support from partners such as Real Ideas, Team 3 and Devonport Market Hall’s Full Dome.
Tailor your studies to your interests and career goals through specialist pathways in Game Art, Game and Play Research or Game Technologies.
Gain advanced technical knowledge
Develop skills and knowledge by experimenting with novel materials, cutting edge digital fabrication processes, and technologies such as advanced 3D printing and industrial CNC milling.
Develop sought after skills
Through a research-focused pathway this programme will explore and develop gamification technology applied to other sectors, including engineering and healthcare.
Conversion programme
This programme offers the ability to follow a conversion programme path, suited for applicants without prior game design or development knowledge.
MA Game Design really incentivises learning, the programme is focussed around what makes good design and how to use the elements of game to create that good design...So much of game design is learning how to do things in a new and unexpected way.
Hear from Kent, one of our international students, about their experience of study and life at Plymouth.
So far, I’ve really enjoyed my studies. I’ve had the opportunity to work on several commercial projects for external and internal clients, extending outside my typical specialism of game development, broadening my repertoire and helping me to forge new contacts.
I decided to pursue a masters in game design in Plymouth as part of my plans to change my career, expand my network, improve my knowledge and build a good portfolio. My professors have great industry connections and can point us in the direction of companies.
Specialist facilities for creative practice
Digital Fabrication and Immersive Media Labs
Our
Digital Fabrication and Immersive Media Laboratories (DFIML) offer access to advanced technology such as motion-capture, augmented and extended reality and a wide array of digital fabrication tools to prototype and create new products, services and experiences.
Immersive Vision Theatre
Research-informed teaching
You will be taught by nationally and internationally recognised academics and practitioners, active in their own areas of research, scholarship and professional networks.
Dr Rafael Arrivabene
Lecturer in Game and Experience Design
Dr Gianni Corino
Associate Professor in Interactive Media
Professor Misha Myers
Head of School of Art, Design & Architecture
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification – it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options – including part-time and January start dates – you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with a society
Postgraduate study is about more than academic achievement. Joining a society is a great way to connect with other students, build friendships, develop new interests, and create a healthy balance alongside your studies.
Whether you're looking to meet people with similar interests, try something new, expand your professional network, or simply take a break from academic commitments, there's a society for everyone.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in
Full-time study
£10,000 per year
£10,000 per year
Tuition fees for UK students starting in
Full-time study
£10,300 per year
£10,300 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
Full-time study
£18,700 per year
£18,700 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
Full-time study
£19,300 per year
£19,300 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate student at Plymouth, there may be funding options available to you, including postgraduate master's loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds, that can help towards costs.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
You are required to have a 2:2 degree in Game Design (or similar design-related discipline such as Digital Media Design, Computer Graphics, Software, Games Development, VR Design, among others).
We also require suitable references from previous academic institutions and/or employers.
Applications to this course include an interview with an Admissions Tutor. This will be scheduled once applications are received by the academic team.
Applicants are expected to present a digital portfolio with evidence of creative thinking and experience related to the games industry. This can include 2D or 3D graphics for still or animated images or user interfaces, development blogs, post-mortem presentations, production documents (when disclosure is allowed), practical projects (e.g. games, movies, plays, or other types of ludic experiences), etc.
For applicants with previous postgraduate studies in related fields, the Programme Lead will assess the applicability of the Recognition of Prior Learning policy on a case-by-case basis.
Alternative modes of admission, such as interview adjustments, can be provided for applicants requiring disability support.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7658
7658
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
7658
7658
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can find out more on our
International students page.
Tell us what you’re considering and we’ll help you explore your options and next steps.
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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