Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Games Design and Production
Overview
The Games Design and Production course at the University of Salford is a three-year undergraduate program that prepares students for a career in the digital creative industries. The course focuses on the development of skills and experience in game design, art, and programming, with an emphasis on teamwork, problem-solving, and industry-standard practices.
Course Details
Year One
- Game Design Fundamentals: Students learn the fundamentals of game design, including theory, design methods, and process.
- Visual Arts: Students engage with creative processes and practices, developing their independent creative capabilities.
- Entertainment Technologies: Students study technologies from the past, present, and future, and conceptualize and build interactive prototypes.
- Principles of Digital Game Design: Students work in production teams to build their first 2D digital game.
- Digital Graphics: Students learn about photographic theory, composition, digital image theory, and image retouching.
- Introduction to Programming: Students receive a solid introduction to the foundations of computer programming.
Year Two
- Game Development Foundations: Students work in production teams to build their first 3D digital game.
- Human Data Interaction: Students learn about the theoretical principles of human-computer and data interaction.
- Advanced Gameplay Development: Students work in groups to produce functional polished product.
- Optional Modules:
- Digital Environment Art: Students learn to design, develop, and deploy 3D virtual games environments.
- Games Engine Programming: Students learn to build an understanding of more complex underlying programming paradigms.
Year Three
- Creative Portfolio: Students focus on the realities of finding meaningful employment in the digital creative industries.
- Final Project Proposal and Prototyping: Students define their own production groups, genre, narrative, and technology.
- Final Project Development: Students work on a full-scale production of their game prototype.
- Practice-Based Dissertation: Students develop a purely written or practice-based dissertation.
Assessment
- 60% Coursework
- 40% Presentations
Teaching
- Production-based modules are delivered primarily through workshops.
- Theory modules are delivered through combined lecture/seminar sessions.
- Project work allows students to produce work tailored to their individual interests.
Facilities
- TV studios
- Green screen facilities
- Audio production
- MakerSpace
- Stop-frame studio
- Computer Suites and Editing Studios
- Equipment stores
Employment and Stats
- Graduates have gone on to work at world-renowned development companies, including Rockstar, Sony, EA, Saga, and Namco.
- 90% of students are in work or doing further study 15 months after the course.
Requirements
- GCSE English and maths grade C/grade 4 or above.
- UCAS tariff points: 104-112 points.
- A-level: 104-112 points.
- T-level: Pass (C in core subject).
- BTEC National Diploma: MMM-DMM.
- Access to HE: 104-112 UCAS Tariff points.
- International Baccalaureate: 28 points.
- European Baccalaureate: Pass in Diploma of at least 73-78% overall in a relevant subject.
Tuition Fees
- Full-time home: £9,535 per year (2025/26), £9,535 per year (2026/27).
- Full-time international: £17,650 per year (2025/26), £18,120 per year (2026/27).
Scholarships
- International students may be eligible for scholarships.
Related Courses
- BA (Hons) Animation
- DipHE Creative and Digital Media
- BSc (Hons) Creative Computing
Student Information
- Terms and conditions
- UCAS information: Course ID G470, Institution S03
Data
- 78% of students say staff value students' views and opinions about the course.
- 74% of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well.
- 90% of students are in work or doing further study 15 months after the course.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
In a nutshell:
- The Games Design and Production program focuses on preparing students for employment in the rapidly growing video game industry.
- The program is designed for students interested in becoming game designers, producers, programmers, or artists.
- The curriculum combines both theoretical and practical elements, with an emphasis on building functional games in a multidisciplinary team environment.
Objectives:
- To equip students with the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the games industry.
- To provide students with real-world experience in game development through group projects and placements.
- To foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment.
Description:
- The program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering the fundamentals of game design, programming, art, and production.
- Students will learn how to concept, design, prototype, and produce games using industry-standard tools and technologies.
- The program culminates in a final year project where students will develop a fully functional game prototype.
- The program also includes a placement module, providing students with the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience.
Outline:
Year One:
- Game Design Fundamentals: Learn the theories and principles of game design, prototyping, and testing.
- Visual Arts: Develop skills in traditional and digital art techniques, including drawing, painting, and 3D modeling.
- Introduction to Programming: Gain a foundation in computer programming, including code structures, principles, and basic game engine concepts.
- Digital Graphics: Learn digital art techniques, including image editing, retouching, pixel art, and vector art.
Year Two:
- Game Development Foundations: Build your first 3D game using industry-standard tools and technologies.
- Human Data Interaction: Understand the principles of human-computer interaction and data analysis in game design.
- Advanced Gameplay Development: Design and implement advanced gameplay mechanics, including AI, physics, and narrative systems.
- Optional Modules: Choose from a range of specialized modules, including Digital Environment Art or Games Engine Programming.
Year Three:
- Personal Portfolio: Develop a professional portfolio showcasing your skills and experience in game design and development.
- Final Project Proposal and Prototyping: Plan and prototype a final year game project in a simulated industry environment.
- Final Project Development: Develop a fully functional game prototype, incorporating all aspects of game design and production.
- Practice-Based Dissertation: Conduct research and produce a written or practical dissertation on a topic related to game design and development.
Assessment:
- Assessment methods include coursework, projects, presentations, and examinations.
- Coursework may include game prototypes, design documents, and written assignments.
- Projects may involve the development of full-fledged games or smaller game components.
- Presentations allow students to showcase their work and receive feedback from tutors and peers.
- Examinations typically assess students' theoretical knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
Teaching:
- Classes are taught by experienced game designers, programmers, artists, and producers.
- The program uses a blended learning approach, combining lectures, workshops, and self-directed study.
- Students have access to industry-standard facilities and software.
- There is a strong emphasis on group work and collaboration.
- Students receive regular feedback and support from tutors.
Careers:
- The program prepares students for a variety of careers in the games industry, including:
- Game designer
- Game producer
- Programmer
- Artist
- Tester
- Quality assurance specialist
- Project manager
- Many graduates have gone on to work for major game studios, including Rockstar, Sony, EA, Saga, Namco, Travellers Tales, and Team 17.
- The campus is home to industry-standard facilities, including TV studios, green screen facilities, audio production studios, and a MakerSpace.
- The program has strong links to the games industry, with regular guest lectures and live briefs from industry partners.
- The program is open to students from all backgrounds and disciplines.
| Type of study | Year | Fees | |---|---|---| | Full-time home | 2024/25 | £9,250.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2024/25 | £17,040.00 per year | | Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,250.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,650.00 per year |
University of Salford: A Summary
Overview:
The University of Salford is a public university located in Salford, Greater Manchester, England. It is known for its strong focus on practical learning and its close ties to industry. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university provides a vibrant campus experience with a range of facilities and activities for students. These include:
Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of accommodation options, including on-campus residences and private apartments.Sports Centre:
Students can stay active and healthy by joining the university's sports centre, which offers a wide range of activities.Clubs and Societies:
Students can join a variety of clubs and societies to meet new people and pursue their interests.Library:
The university library provides students with access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and online databases.Cafe and Dining:
The campus has several cafes and dining options for students to enjoy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical Learning:
The university emphasizes practical learning, with many programs incorporating hands-on experience and industry placements.Industry Connections:
The university has strong ties to industry, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.Location:
The university is located in Salford, a vibrant city with easy access to Manchester city centre.Modern Facilities:
The university has invested in modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art sports centre and a new library.Other:
The university offers a variety of student support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support. It also has a strong commitment to research, with a focus on areas such as energy, healthcare, and technology.
Entry Requirements:
University of Salford
- GCSE: Grade C or 4 in English and Maths.
- A Levels: 96 - 112 points
- T Level: Pass (C in core subject)
- BTEC National Diploma: MMM-DMM
- Access to HE: 96-112 UCAS Tariff points from Level 3 QAA approved Access programme
- Scottish Highers: 96 - 112 points
- Irish Leaving Certificate: 96 - 112 points
- International Baccalaureate: 28 points
- European Baccalaureate: 73-78% overall in a relevant subject
University of Salford - Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES):
- Applicants may be considered if they do not meet the above requirements but demonstrate the ability to pursue the course successfully.
- There are two routes: review of prior learning or a formal test.
International Students:
- Must demonstrate English proficiency.
- IELTS score of 6.0 with no individual band below 5.5 is required.
- Other accepted English language qualifications include:
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) at grade B
- Cambridge English: First (FCE) at grade B
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic): 50
- Duolingo English Test (DET): 100
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- International students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the above accepted qualifications.