Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-02-01 | - |
2025-06-01 | - |
2025-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
Game Design
MSc by Research, MPhil, PhD
Overview
This is a potential research degree area, subject to the approval of the University. If you are interested in undertaking a research degree in this area, please contact PGRS Recruitment.
The UK video games sector is a highly dynamic and ever evolving global success story.
Abertay University continues to lead the development of games as an academic meta-discipline, incorporating computer science, computer art, digital design, sound and music, human computer interaction, and media studies.
Game Design at Abertay University covers a wide range of applied and theoretical research. As technologies evolve and audiences expand, now is an excellent time to engage with research in games, with research spanning novel game mechanics, multiplayer game balancing, narrative design and interaction design.
At Abertay, you will be supported to conduct this research by our world-leading expertise in computer games education, our connections with key industry partners such as Microsoft and Sony, and our specialist computer arts and game development facilities.
Our research is inherently cross- and inter-disciplinary, which is of particular importance for research in game design. We lead the InGAME project, one of the nine AHRC-funded Creative Industry Clusters Partnerships, which is a consortium of industrial and academic partners. This project will underpin growth of the regional games and media sector.
Dundee is one of the UK’s oldest and most successful games hubs. The city has longstanding relationships with local, national, and international game studios. Undertaking a research degree in game design at Abertay will prepare researchers for careers not only in academia, but also within wider society.
What does a research degree involve?
As a postgraduate research student, you will carry out an original, independent research and/or practice-based project, whilst being guided and supported by a team of expert academic supervisors. As you do this, you will benefit from an extensive programme of researcher development tailored to your background, needs and future ambitions. This will in turn help you develop the skills required to deliver research excellence.
Your progress will be monitored throughout the year and via an annual review. The final assessment is by examination of your submitted thesis and a viva voce (oral examination).
With the help of your supervisors, you will be encouraged to publish your research during and after your studies.
Our research degrees
You have the option of studying an MSc by Research, an MPhil or a PhD.
When deciding which degree is right for you, you should consider the level of commitment required, the duration, cost and your career aspirations.
That being said, our research degrees are flexible. You can begin an MSc by Research or an MPhil and then seek to transfer to a PhD without having to start your project all over again. You can also switch from full-time to part-time study, and vice versa.
MSc by Research
The award of Master of Science by Research (MSc by Research) demonstrates a practical ability to undertake research studies, a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or the application of original thought.
Duration
- Full-time: 12 months (minimum 10 months, maximum 14 months)
- Part-time: 24 months (minimum 20 months, maximum 28 months)
MPhil
The award of Master of Philosophy demonstrates a systematic understanding of knowledge and a critical awareness of current problems and/or the application of original thought, much of which is at (or informed by) the forefront of your field of study or area of professional practice.
Duration
- Full-time: 24 months (minimum 12 months, maximum 48 months)
- Part-time: 48 months (minimum 24 months, maximum 72 months)
PhD
The award of the Doctor of Philosophy demonstrates that the main focus of your work is your personal contribution to knowledge in your discipline or field, through original research or the original application of existing knowledge.
Duration
- Full-time: 36 months (minimum 24 months, maximum 48 months)
- Part-time: 48 months (minimum 72 months, maximum 96 months)
Fees and funding
The fees you'll pay depend on factors such as your nationality, location and personal circumstances.
- Postgraduate student fees - Scottish Students
- Postgraduate student fees - UK Students (outside Scotland)
- Postgraduate student fees - International & EU Students
Your Application
1. Meet the academic entry requirements
The minimum entry requirement for all our research degrees is an Upper Second Class Honours degree (or equivalent) at undergraduate level in an appropriate discipline and/or a Master’s degree. Degree studies must include an independent research component evidenced in the degree transcript, such as dissertation, project, or thesis.
2. Meet the visa and English language requirements
- Visa requirements: If you're not from the European Economic Area (EEA) and/or Switzerland, you may need to apply for a visa.
- English language requirements: We accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration.
3. Check Abertay researcher expertise
You can view academic researcher profiles by searching keywords, names or publications in the Staff Explorer, to ensure that we have appropriate expertise within Abertay to support your research proposal.
4. Secure funding
There are two different routes to studying a research degree at Abertay – you can apply for one of our funded studentships or propose your own area of research.
5. Write your research proposal
This is your opportunity to state your research objectives, to grab the reader’s attention and highlight your suitability for research degree study.
- Title
- Abstract (summary)
- Introduction/background
- Hypotheses, objectives or research question
- Proposed methodology
- How will you disseminate your findings (pathways to impact)
- Ethical considerations
- Summary and conclusions
- References
- About you: briefly describe your relevant experience and how it will help you achieve your objectives, explain why you are an excellent candidate for a research degree, and identify your additional professional development and training needs.
6. Apply online by the relevant deadline
You can start a research degree at Abertay in February, June or October of each year. You can apply to defer from one entry point to another on one occasion, however, subsequent requests must be supported by an additional full application.
- Applications for February entry by 15 December (if you need a Tier 4 visa then the deadline is 30 November)
- Applications for June entry by 30 April (if you need a Tier 4 visa then the deadline is 31 March)
- Applications for October entry by 31 August (if you need a Tier 4 visa then the deadline is 31 July)
Abertay University
Overview:
Abertay University is a public university located in Dundee, Scotland. It is known for its focus on applied learning and its strong industry links. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including online master's degrees.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Abertay University is located on a city-center campus, with all buildings within walking distance. Students have access to the Bernard King Library, which offers four floors of open plan study space and printed resources. The university also offers a range of sports facilities and clubs.
Key Reasons to Study There:
*
Applied Learning:
Abertay University emphasizes practical skills and industry relevance in its programs. *Industry Links:
The university has strong connections with businesses and organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking. *City-Center Campus:
The university's location in Dundee offers students access to a vibrant city with a range of cultural attractions and amenities.Academic Programs:
Abertay University offers a variety of academic programs, including: *
Undergraduate:
Forensic Science, Computer Game Applications Development, Business, Law, Social Science, Applied Sciences, Design, and Informatics. *Postgraduate Taught:
A range of master's degrees in various fields. *Postgraduate Research:
Opportunities for PhD and other research degrees.Other:
Abertay University is a charity registered in Scotland. The university has received several awards and accreditations, including: * University of the Year for Teaching Quality * Athena SWAN Charter * Race Equality Charter Mark * Cycle-friendly Employer * Living Wage Employer * Employer Recognition Scheme * Outstanding Workplace Award