Game Art and Design – BSc (Hons)

Course Overview

The B.Sc. (Honours) in Game Art & Design targets the creative needs of the games industry by producing graduates who can develop high-quality game content, design game levels, and work with industry-leading content creation tools, scripting languages, and game engines.

In addition to developing students' artistic skills, students of the programme acquire the skills to produce compelling game content for various gaming applications and platforms. The graduates of this programme possess a well-developed understanding of both the creative and technical processes involved in producing game content.

The programme is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to work in the games industry as games artists, content creators, and designers. The programme embodies the multidisciplinary nature of the games sector and seeks to address the demand for game art and design skills both nationally and internationally.

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of 2 H5 & 4 O6/H7 grades in six Leaving Certificate subjects, including Mathematics and English or Irish.
• TUS accepts QQI-FET/FETAC awards for entry on all courses of study.
• Mature applicants may be required to attend an interview and may be requested to take an aptitude test to prove their suitability for a place on this programme.
• International applicants should apply directly to the International Office at TUS, allowing plenty of time for completing the visa process.
• A portfolio assessment is required, with a minimum score of 240 out of 600.

Course Modules

Year 1 – Semester 1

• Digital Technology Fundamentals (5 credits)
• Professional Culture And Communication (5 credits)
• Creative Coding 1 (5 credits)
• Gaming Fundamentals (5 credits)
• Visual Design For Games (5 credits)
• 3D Modelling I Game Props (5 credits)

Year 1 – Semester 2

• Interactive Audio Storytelling (5 credits)
• Team Psychology (5 credits)
• Creative Coding 2 (5 credits)
• UI For Digital Experiences (5 credits)
• 2D Asset Creation (5 credits)
• Material And Lighting For Game (5 credits)

Year 2 – Semester 1

• Rigging For Games (5 credits)
• Drawing Principles For Games (5 credits)
• Game Engine Programming I (5 credits)
• Game Design I (5 credits)
• Concept Art (5 credits)
• 3D Modelling 2 Game Character (5 credits)

Year 2 – Semester 2

• Animation For Games I (5 credits)
• Game Art Studio 1 Portfolio (5 credits)
• Game Engine Programming II (5 credits)
• Critical Game Design (5 credits)
• FX For Games (30 credits)
• 3D Modelling 3 Game Character (5 credits)

Year 3 – Semester 1

• Animation For Games 2 (5 credits)
• XR Design And Development 1 (5 credits)
• Level Design and Prototyping (5 credits)
• Game Environments 1 (5 credits)
• Professional Career Skills (5 credits)

Year 3 – Semester 2

• Game Art Studio 2 Production (5 credits)
• XR Design And Development 2 (5 credits)
• Game Team Project (5 credits)
• Modelling, Texturing And Lighting, Game Environments 1 (5 credits)
• Employment Placement

Year 4 – Semester 1

• Games Based Learning and Instructional Design (5 credits)
• Designing Game Projects (5 credits)
• Architectural Visualisation (5 credits)
• Open World Scene Management (5 credits)
• The Game Industry (5 credits)
• Electives (Choose One) – Lighting And Look Development or Mobile Game UI (5 credits)

Year 4 – Semester 2

• Electives (Choose One) – Major Games Project or Industry Internship (30 credits)

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this course can work in a range of roles including:

• Animation: 2D, 3D animation generalist, Creature Animator, Character Animator, 2D/3D Rigging, Creature FX animation, Lead Technical Animator
• 2D Designer/Concept Artist: Character Concept Artist, Environment Concept Artist, Texture Artist, Storyboard & Layout, Matte Painting
• 3D Modelling: Character Modeller for Games, Creature Modeller for Games, Modelling Technical/Lead Artist, Senior Asset Artist
• Technical Artist: Lighting Artist, Lead Lighting and Look Development, Environment Artist, FX Artist
• Game Design: Lead Game Designer, Level Designer, User Interface Designer

Further Study

Successful graduates of this programme are eligible for Level 9 and 10 postgraduate programmes within TUS and/or elsewhere.

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)

---

Overview:

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is a multi-campus university in Ireland, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its focus on applied learning and innovation, fostering strong industry ties and providing excellent employment opportunities for its graduates.

---

Services Offered:

TUS provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Admissions & Support:

Admissions guidance, international student support, open days, student finance information, induction programs, and student support services.

Campus Life:

Accommodation options, career and employability services, chaplaincy and pastoral care, disability supports, learning support, student counselling, student health services, sports facilities, student union, clubs and societies.

Faculty Areas:

Business, Hospitality & Humanities, Engineering, Built Environment & Informatics, Sciences, Health & Technology, and Limerick School of Art & Design.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

TUS prioritizes a student-first approach, offering small class sizes and personalized attention. Students can expect a vibrant campus life with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities. The university also provides comprehensive support services to ensure a positive and enriching student experience.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Applied Learning & Innovation:

TUS emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, preparing students for successful careers.

Strong Industry Ties:

The university has strong connections with industry partners, providing students with valuable internship and employment opportunities.

Excellent Employment Opportunities:

TUS graduates are highly sought after by employers, with a strong track record of successful career outcomes.

Vibrant Campus Life:

Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience with a range of clubs, societies, and sports activities.

Comprehensive Support Services:

TUS provides a wide range of support services to ensure students' academic and personal success.

---

Academic Programs:

TUS offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate:

Programs in various disciplines, including business, engineering, science, technology, art, and design.

Postgraduate:

Master's and PhD programs in specialized fields.

Apprenticeships:

Programs in various trades and technical fields.

Flexible & Professional Learning:

Programs designed for working professionals.

---

Other:

TUS is a QS 5 Star Rated University, recognized for its high-quality education and research. The university is also actively involved in research and development, with a focus on areas of national and global importance.