Program start date | Application deadline |
2026-01-01 | - |
2026-05-01 | - |
2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Indie Game Development MA (Online)
Course Overview
Learn to produce vibrant and engaging experiences for gamers on this dynamic online MA course. You’ll analyse the principles of the creative process, from early ideation and prototyping through to full production, release and post-release content.
Why Study This Course at Falmouth?
- Apply the principles of design and creativity to generate novel experiences and own the Intellectual Property (IP) of any games you produce
- Develop digital and non-digital prototypes and playable games, exploring the use of games across a range of application domains, including gamification and serious games – learning to use industry-standard platforms and adapting to their technical constraints
- Use methods from business and analytics to better understand how people engage with indie games and games companies
- Collaborate across disciplinary boundaries and expand your professional networks at optional in-person events
Course Details
Throughout this indie game development course, you'll learn how to produce original and creatively distinguished games based on your own intellectual property. You'll gain the ability to critically reflect upon and evaluate working methods and find the most effective ways to collaborate on projects. You'll also gain key professional skills in pitching your ideas; communicating concepts and presenting artefacts visually with clarity and enthusiasm.
Modules
- Development Practice
- Game Development
- Co-creative Design and Development Practice
- Indie Game Start-Up
- Final Major Project (MA only)
Assessment Methods
Assessment provides the course team with a means of offering tailored guidance alongside advice on how to progress knowledge and skills in key areas that relate to the course Learning Outcomes. The course team will identify your strengths and weaknesses as an individual and discuss them with you throughout your time on the course.
- Projects
- Portfolios
- Pitches
- Papers
Resources and Support
- Dedicated easy-to-use virtual learning environment (VLE)
- Accessible online audio / visual content
- A Student Advisor to support you throughout your studies and access to our Student Support Services
- Access to our Employability Service
- 24/7 access to Falmouth's extensive online library of contextual books, journals and resources
- Access to online software tutorials at LinkedIn Learning
- Students' Union community
- Optional in-person events
- Invitation to attend alumni events
Meet the Team
The Indie Game Development course is part of Falmouth’s Games Academy, one of the largest dedicated game development studio spaces of any UK university. You'll learn from industry experts with years of experience across disciplines, bringing together art, animation, audio, design, programming, production and writing.
- Matty McGrory
- Liz Coulter-Smith
- Matt Osbond
- Sally Blake
- Alexander Horowitz
- Adam Clewes-Boyne
- Joe Kennett
Careers
Our game development graduates have worked as:
- Game developers at companies such as MediaTonic, Firesprite, Creative Assembly, Project Gamechanger and Rare
- Creative AI specialists at companies including Ultrahaptics, Solutionpath and Bewsign
- Researchers and developers at companies such as Facebook
- Designers, developers, programmers and analysts at companies such as Facebook
- Doctoral researchers in artificial intelligence and/or data science, sponsored by the likes of Google
How to Apply
- An honours degree or Level 6 equivalent qualification is desirable. However, candidates without a degree or formal qualification are still encouraged to apply.
- If English is not your first language you will need to meet the same standard which is equivalent to the IELTS Academic 6.5 overall score, with at least 5.5 in Reading, Writing, and Listening, and a minimum of 6.0 in speaking.
Fees, Costs & Funding
- Tuition fees for September 2024, January 2025 and May 2025 entry: £12,150 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - 2 years part time - MA/MSc course
- Tuition fees for September 2025, January 2026 and May 2026 entry: £12,150 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - 2 years part time - MA/MSc course
- Typical course costs:
- Laptop/computer: around £1,300
- Optional face-to-face events: you will be expected to cover your own travel, accommodation and subsistence costs
Similar Courses
- Game Programming MSc
- Game Design MA
- Game Art MA
- Artificial Intelligence for Games MSc
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Indie Game Development MA (Online) at Falmouth University
is a program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to become confident and daring indie game developers. The course focuses on:
- Creative Process: Analyze the principles involved in the creative process, from ideation and design to delivery and dissemination.
- Technical Skills: Integrate design tools, programming languages, game engines, middleware, and frameworks into your game development practice.
- Research and Development: Conduct research and development through a major project, either independently or with others.
- Critical Reflection: Develop the ability to critically reflect upon and evaluate working methods to find the most effective ways to collaborate on projects. The program is delivered by Falmouth's Games Academy, which has been ranked #1 for game design in England by The Princeton Review (2023).
Outline
The MA Indie Game Development Online program consists of four 30-credit modules and one 60-credit major project (totaling 180 credits). There is also a PGDip option that consists of four 30-credit modules (totaling 120 credits) without the major project.
Modules:
- Development Practice: This module delves into the process of creating original and creatively distinguished games based on your own intellectual property. You will experiment with new approaches to challenge your existing ideas and create a personal case study demonstrating your development practice.
- Game Development: This module focuses on the fundamentals of game development. You will learn how to develop and combine skills from art, design, and programming disciplines to create a small indie game.
- Co-creative Design and Development Practice: This module will challenge you to work in a multi-disciplinary team on a problem-led creative project, such as a small game or creative app. You will collaborate to design, implement, evaluate, and manage the project, culminating in a polished and original artefact that demonstrates your engagement with an audience.
- Indie Game Start-Up: This module equips you with the skills needed to launch your own indie game development business. You will identify market opportunities, investigate and assess different business models, and learn how to manage your business effectively, including cash flow management, enterprise planning, incorporation, seeking investment, and marketing.
- Final Major Project (MA only): This module allows you to undertake a significant research and development project, focusing on expanding and consolidating your skills in devising, developing, and executing an extended development project. You can build upon your previous projects or develop a new concept, aiming to complete a polished project with publishable quality.
Assessment
The Indie Game Development program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These include:
- Projects: Students will create and submit various projects throughout the course, demonstrating their understanding and application of the learned concepts.
- Portfolios: Students will compile portfolios showcasing their best work and development projects, demonstrating their skills and creative capabilities.
- Pitches: Students will present and pitch their game ideas and concepts to potential investors or audiences, practicing their communication and persuasive skills.
- Papers: Students will write academic papers exploring specific topics related to game development, demonstrating their research and analytical skills.
Teaching
The program is delivered online through Falmouth's dedicated virtual learning environment. This environment allows for the delivery of lectures, webinars, guest talks, and online forums. Students also have access to extensive learning resources, course documentation, and announcements. The program utilizes a blend of online and face-to-face teaching methods. Online learning includes interactive lectures, webinars, guest talks, tasks, and discussions facilitated by online tutors. Students also have access to extensive learning resources and support staff. Additionally, the program offers optional face-to-face events twice a year, typically on weekends, to enhance the learning experience and provide networking opportunities. The program boasts a team of expert instructors with extensive industry experience across various disciplines, including art, animation, audio, design, programming, production, and writing. These instructors bring their real-world knowledge and expertise into the classroom, providing students with a comprehensive and industry-relevant education.
Careers
Graduates of the Indie Game Development program have successfully pursued careers in various roles within the gaming industry, including:
- Game Developers: This role involves developing and designing games for various platforms, utilizing acquired skills in programming, design, and art.
- Creative AI Specialists: This role involves using artificial intelligence for game development, leveraging skills in AI and game development to create innovative and interactive experiences.
- Researchers and Developers: This role involves researching and developing new technologies and applications for the gaming industry, utilizing skills in research, programming, and game design.
- Designers, Developers, and Programmers: These roles involve various technical and creative contributions to the development of video games.
- Doctoral Researchers in AI and Data Science: This path involves conducting research in artificial intelligence and data science, aiming to contribute to advancements in these fields and their applications in the gaming industry. These include:
- Extensive Library: Students have access to Falmouth University's vast online library, providing access to relevant books, journals, and research materials.
- Online Software Tutorials: Students have access to online software tutorials through LinkedIn Learning, enhancing their technical skills and knowledge.
- Student Union: Students can participate in the Falmouth University Students' Union, offering additional support, networking, and social events. The program also values student engagement and interaction. In addition to the online learning platform, the program offers optional in-person events and alumni events to foster a strong community and provide opportunities to connect with other students, faculty, and industry professionals.
£12,150 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - 2 years part time - MA/MSc course £7,921 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - PGDip course £12,150 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - 2 years part time - MA/MSc course £7,921 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - PGDip course Tuition fees for September 2025 will be confirmed in summer 2024. Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible. The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs
Falmouth University
Overview:
Falmouth University is a public university located in Cornwall, England, renowned for its creative arts and design programs. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as online study options. The university is known for its strong industry connections, professional-grade facilities, and inspiring location.
Services Offered:
Falmouth University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus accommodation options are available, offering modern and well-equipped spaces.Student Support:
The university offers a variety of support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Employability Service:
Falmouth University has a dedicated Employability Service that helps students develop their career skills and find employment opportunities.Student Voice:
The university encourages student feedback and participation through its Student Voice program.Study Abroad Exchanges:
Students have the opportunity to study abroad at partner institutions around the world.Virtual Experience:
Falmouth University offers a virtual experience platform for prospective students to explore the campus and learn more about the university.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Falmouth University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience, with:
Accommodation:
Modern and well-equipped accommodation options on and off-campus.Open Days:
Open Days are held regularly, allowing prospective students to experience campus life and meet staff and current students.Freshers' Week:
A dedicated week of events and activities designed to help new students settle in and make friends.Student Clubs and Societies:
A wide range of clubs and societies cater to diverse interests, providing opportunities for students to connect with like-minded individuals.Location:
Falmouth is situated in a beautiful and inspiring location, with easy access to the coast and surrounding countryside.Key Reasons to Study There:
Industry Connections:
Falmouth University has strong industry connections, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.Professional-Grade Facilities:
The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, workshops, and labs, designed to support creative learning and practice.Inspiring Location:
Falmouth's location in Cornwall offers a unique and inspiring environment for creative study, with access to stunning beaches, coastal landscapes, and a vibrant arts scene.Focus on Employability:
Falmouth University is committed to preparing students for successful careers, with a dedicated Employability Service and a strong focus on practical skills development.Academic Programs:
Falmouth University offers a wide range of academic programs, with strengths in:
Art & Design:
The university is renowned for its art and design programs, including animation, film, photography, graphic design, fashion, and textiles.Games:
Falmouth University has a dedicated Games Academy, offering programs in game design, development, and production.Business & Marketing:
The university offers programs in business, marketing, and entrepreneurship, with a focus on creativity and innovation.Computing:
Falmouth University offers programs in computing, including data science, robotics, and software development.English, Journalism & Writing:
The university offers programs in English, journalism, and creative writing, with a focus on practical skills and industry connections.Performance, Theatre & Music:
Falmouth University offers programs in performance, theatre, and music, with a focus on practical training and professional development.Entry Requirements:
An honours degree or Level 6 equivalent qualification is desirable. However, candidates without a degree or formal qualification are still encouraged to apply. We accept: IELTS - minimum overall score of IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening TOEFL iBT (online test) - minimum of 88 overall and at least 21 in all 4 components LanguageCert (online test) - a High Pass from the ESOL B2 Communicator test in reading, writing, speaking and listening (2 parts) We also accept a range of other recognised English language qualifications.