Games Design BA/BSc Honours

Overview

The Games Design degree at Middlesex provides the technical training and overall knowledge you will need to make a career in the competitive gaming industry.

Why study BA/BSc Games Design at Middlesex University?

Games Design is a rapidly changing and converging industry with new technologies, new users and new platforms emerging every day. It is no longer enslaved to large-scale, big-budget delivery and most opportunities for graduates are in casual games, online games, and mobile games serviced by a growing indie sector.

Our BA/BSc is designed to prepare you with a skill set that is resilient to these changes, equipping you with the specific skills and knowledge needed to launch a career as a Games Designer. This programme also helps you develop experience in a wide range of digital technologies that will enable you to work within the broader creative industries. Our state-of-the-art facilities give you access to over 30 workstations equipped with an impressive array of the latest software

You'll learn to work in groups and individually on a series of projects that will let you discover your strengths and build up an impressive portfolio. You will get to develop a wide range of skills, ranging from programming, story development, novel interface use, and game play design. As games designers and developers, you will work alongside artists from our BA 3D Animation and Games programme in coordinated workshops. To help direct your future career, work placement opportunities are built into the curriculum. Middlesex also has very strong links with potential employers – indeed, our industry partners provide live briefs and visiting lectures.

At MDX, you will be part of a thriving creative community. We'll teach you the core skills to be a successful games designer in a fast-changing industry.

Course highlights

You will be taught and assessed by academic staff whose experience goes beyond conventional gaming into indie, serious and mobile games
You will have access to the latest software including Unity, Processing, OpenFrameworks, Maya, Z-Brush, After Effects, Flash, Final Cut Pro and Photoshop, as well as a Vicon Motion Capture and Green screen facility
Teaching is focused on project-based workshops supplemented by lectures and seminars so you can build a substantial portfolio of work
You will work with fellow students on related courses such as 3D animation, art and design, computing and graphics while gaining experience in teamwork and workflow as you collaborate to produce playable games
The programme is focused on innovation and design, equipping you with the skills you need to begin your career in this rapidly changing area
As a student of this course you'll receive a free electronic textbook for every module.

Course content

What will you study on the BA/BSc Games Design degree at Middlesex University?

The overall themes of the BA/BSc Games Design programme are project work, analysis, research, reflection, collaboration, making, diversity, play and experimentation.

Year 1 provides an overall introduction, where you will begin to learn the essential skills you need to become an effective Games Designer. These include such skills as, programming, level design, mechanics and some basic 3D modelling and sound editing. You will also learn about the broader context of games; their history and cultural impact, player experience and theories relating to game design.

Year 2 develops the topics that were introduced in Year 1 with a greater emphasis on group work (including projects with students on other programmes) and experimentation. You will also start to specialise and choose your exit award. BA students will take a module in storytelling for games, whilst BSc students will undertake a game technology module.

Year 3 is where you can develop your skills still further and showcase your mastery with your final project. For BA students, these projects will focus on design (but with technical components), whilst BSc students will produce technically demanding levels or complete games (but with design components too). You also produce polished portfolios (of your project work over your 3 years of study) and undertake an industry focussed project, which may be the result of an internship, a live industry brief or on a negotiated topic.

Modules

Year 1
- Creative Technologies Workshop 1 (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module develops knowledge and skills in the use of core technologies related to games development. This includes an introduction to programming, essential 3D modelling and the use of games engines.
- Creative Technologies Workshop 2 (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module enables you to extend and apply the skills and knowledge developed in the previous module by producing working prototypes of elements of your own game that you've designed.
- Game Fundamentals 1 (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  An understanding of the fundamental principles and approaches is an essential part of becoming a competent Games Designer. This module will introduce you to a range of topics including design methodologies, idea generation techniques, project planning methods, game mechanics, interaction design, user experience, player types and theories relating to play.
- Game Fundamentals 2 (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module is focused on designing and implementing game elements. This will include taking part in a variety of project-based workshops involving non-digital prototyping, play testing and observation methodologies.
Year 2
- Advanced Creative Technologies Workshop 1 (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  The module builds on your practical skills and knowledge. It introduces different approaches to programming and implementing games on a range of platforms, including mobile, tablet, PC, consoles and AR.
- Advanced Creative Technologies Workshop 2 (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  Collaboration and teamwork are vital skills for a Games Designer. This module enables you to work in teams from other programmes to design and implement a playable level.
- Game Culture (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  Games have become a significant part of our lives. This module will explore some of the important cultural aspects that games have including such topics as ludology, ethnicity, gender, addiction, ethics, gamification and serious games.
- Storytelling for Games (30 credits) - Optional
  
  An introduction to how narratives can be used and direct gameplay. You will learn the principles of storytelling, create stories, integrate stories with game mechanics and implement these.
- Game Technologies (30 credits) - Optional
  
  Technical advances are constantly producing new game-related interfaces. This module allows you to explore a range of novel technologies and to produce ways of integrating these into game-play.
Year 3
- Final Project: Technical (BSc only) (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  For those undertaking the BSc, this module will be focused on producing a working level or game via extensive programming and play-testing. Opportunities for live briefs and placements are built in.
- Final Project: Design-led (BA only) (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  For those undertaking the BA, this module will focus on producing a working level or game using scripting and a games engine. Opportunities for live briefs and placements are built into this module.
- Project Proposition and Planning (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  This module will enable you to devise and plan a coherent, achievable and innovative final project. A series of presentations and group presentations will help you get your project approved and ready for implementation.
- Research and Documentation (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  Designing and making a new game requires a good deal of contextual research, design justification, project documentation and reflection. This module will help you develop the documentation to accompany your Final Project.
- Professional Portfolio (30 credits) - Compulsory
  
  Having a professional portfolio is vital in helping you to begin your career, whether you want to start your own studio, join an existing indie studio or a major games company. This module aims to help you consolidate, present and disseminate the work you have already completed in your studies.

You can find more information about this course in the programme specification. Optional modules are usually available at levels 5 and 6, although optional modules are not offered on every course. Where optional modules are available, you will be asked to make your choice during the previous academic year. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, or there are staffing changes which affect the teaching, it may not be offered. If an optional module will not run, we will advise you after the module selection period when numbers are confirmed, or at the earliest time that the programme team make the decision not to run the module, and help you choose an alternative module.

Teaching

How is the BA/BSc Games Design taught?
Teaching is focused on project-based workshops supplemented by lectures and seminars so you can build a substantial portfolio of work. You will work with fellow students on related courses such as 3D Animation, art and design, computing and graphics while gaining experience in teamwork and workflow as you collaborate to produce working games.
The programme is focused on innovation and design, equipping you with the skills you need to begin your career in this rapidly changing area.
Work placement opportunities are built into the curriculum. Middlesex has very strong links with employers and our industry partners provide live briefs and visiting lectures.
Teaching
Lectures allow you to gain and develop knowledge in specific subjects. You can discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures and practicals in smaller seminar groups. In addition, you can arrange one to one sessions with your personal tutor or module leader. You will also have access to and use resources to support your learning.
Independent Learning
When not attending your teaching, sessions mentioned above, you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework, presentations and examinations. Your independent learning is supported by the facilities available including the library and Study Hub, Laptop hire, and with online materials in MyUniHub (see student support section below).
Overall Workload
Your overall workload will include the activities listed above, and with each credit being completed equating to 10 hours of study time (You will complete 120 credits per level of study, which are broken down into modules of typically 30 credits). While your actual hours may depend on the optional module that you choose (if available), the following information will give you an indication of how much time is allocated to teaching and independent study on your course;
Level 4
24% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity:
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 288 hours
- Independent Learning: 912 hours
Level 5
24% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity:
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 288 hours
- Independent Learning: 912 hours
Level 6
22% of your time is spent in timetabled teaching and learning activity:
- Teaching, learning and assessment: 264 hours
- Independent Learning: 936 hours
Academic Support
You will have access to academic support services that you assist you in the following areas;
- Study Skills, including academic writing, reading and numeracy skills.
- Employability, with workshops and tutorials on CV writing, interview and presentation skills.
- Library Support, including sessions on finding, and choosing the right resources and software and tutorials on referencing and plagiarism.
- Progression and Support Advisors to assist you with if you experience difficulties with your studies.
- Well-being Services.
These services can be accessed through the UniHelp Desk in the Library building.

Assessment

The course will provide you with opportunities to test your knowledge and understanding informally through ‘formative’ assessment. This will be completed before your formal ‘summative’ assessment which will count towards your final marks. Each module normally contains at least one piece of formative assessment from which you will receive feedback from your tutor. Formative assessments are developmental and any grade you receive from formative assessment does not count towards your final marks.

There is formal ‘summative’ assessment as part of the module, usually towards the end of the module. The grades from the summative assessments count towards your module mark. Assessments are reviewed annually and may be updated based on student feedback, to suit content or based on feedback from an external examiner.

Percentage of course assessed by coursework

The balance of assessment will depend on the modules that you complete throughout your course. The approximate percentage of the course which is assessed by coursework is outlined below:

Level 4 (BA/BSc)	77.5% coursework	22.5% practical exams
Level 5 (BA/BSc)	95% coursework	5% practical exams
Level 6 (BA only)	80% coursework	20% practical exams
Level 6 (BSc only)	90% coursework	10% practical exams

Feedback

You will receive feedback on the formative assessment, and written summative assessments. Feedback on examination performance can be requested from the module leader. Feedback is intended to help you learn and progress, and you are encouraged to review and discuss your feedback with your module or personal tutor.

We will aim to provide you with feedback within 15 working days of submission.

Details of progression and pass marks for assessment can be found in the university regulations.

Entry requirements

Qualifications
112 UCAS points including grade C in GCSE Maths (BSc only)

Middlesex University has a flexible and personalised approach to admissions and we accept applications from students with a wide range of qualifications and a combination of qualifications.
Please check our general entry requirements page to see how these points can be achieved from our acceptable level 3 qualifications and the combinations which are welcomed by Middlesex University, including GCSE requirements.
Applications from mature candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed, provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant ability and experience.
If you are unable to meet the entry requirements for this course you may still be eligible for our Foundation Year in Media course. This is an extra year of study to prepare you for the full degree.
Eligibility
UK/EU and international students are eligible to apply for this course.
Academic credit for previous study or experience
If you have achieved a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex University course in year two or three. For further information please visit our Transfer students page.
If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your Middlesex University programme of study. For further information please visit our Accreditation of Prior Learning page.
Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions
Entry onto this course does not require an interview, portfolio or audition.
Qualifications
112 UCAS points including grade C in GCSE Maths (BSc only)
To find out more about the qualifications we accept from your country please visit the relevant support in your country page. If you are unsure about the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest regional office for support.

Middlesex University has a flexible and personalised approach to admissions and we accept applications from students with a wide range of qualifications and a combination of qualifications.
Applications from mature candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed, provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant ability and experience.
If you are unable to meet the entry requirements for this course you may still be eligible for our Foundation Year in Media course. This is an extra year of study to prepare you for the full degree.
Visas and immigration
You will not need a visa to study in the UK if you are a citizen of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland. If you are a national of any other country you may need a visa to study in the UK. Please see our visas and immigration page for further information.
English language requirements for international students
You must have competence in English language to study with us. The most commonly accepted evidence of English language ability is IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components). Visit our English language requirements page for a full list of accepted tests and qualifications. If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, we offer an intensive pre-sessional English course.
Interviews, entrance tests, portfolios and auditions
Entry onto this course does not require an interview, portfolio or audition.
Please apply via UCAS using the correct UCAS code below:
- BA: W24Z
- BSc: W24X
For help with your application, please view our undergraduate application page.

Fees and funding

The fees below refer to the 2018/19 academic year unless otherwise stated.
UK/EU students*
Full-time students: £9,250
*Course fees are subject to annual inflation.
For more information and to answer your frequently asked questions, please visit our undergraduate funding page.
The fees below refer to the 2018/19 academic year unless otherwise stated.
International students*
Full-time students: £12,500
*Course fees are subject to annual inflation.
For more information and to answer your frequently asked questions, please visit our undergraduate funding page.
Course costs
The following course-related costs are included in the fees:
- A free electronic textbook for every module
- All printing and copying required for your study
- Self-service laptops available for loan for a maximum of 24 hours
- Audio-visual equipment available for loan, including digital stills cameras, digital video recorders, digital audio recorders

Facilities

The programme is well resourced with state-of-the-art facilities - you will have access to over 30 workstations equipped with an impressive array of the latest software including Unity, Processing, OpenFrameworks, Maya, Z-Brush, After Effects, Flash, Final Cut Pro and Photoshop. Students will also have access to a Vicon Motion Capture and Green screen facility.