Program Overview

Game Design and Development

Overview

The BSc (Hons) Game Design and Development course at ARU Peterborough is designed to provide students with essential skills in game design and development, equipping them with competencies highly valued by employers. The course combines foundational game design skills with technical specialisations such as programming, testing, immersive experience development, interactive storytelling, and level design.

Course Options

• 3 years full-time
• 4 years with foundation year
• 4 years with placement

Key Facts

• UCAS code: W290
• Fees:
  • £9,535 UK students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)
  • £16,700 International students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)

Teaching and Assessment

The course is highly practical, with assessment methods tailored to the field of game design and digital art, including:

• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Demonstrations
• Pitches
• Creation of game artefacts
• Screencasts
• Poster sessions
• Reports and game design documentation

Modules

Year 1

• Narrative Game Design
• Designing Game Mechanics
• Level Design and Rapid Game Prototyping
• Game Monetisation, Analytics & Engagement
• Specialist Practice In Gaming
• Into ARU

Year 2

• Mobile Game Programming
• Augmented Reality Development
• Ruskin Module
• VR Game Development & Optimisation
• Team-Based Game Development

Year 3

• Advanced Game Programming
• Experimental Practice in Gaming
• Game Studio Design and Development

Facilities

• eXtended Reality Peterborough, an immersive teaching suite
• Computing suites equipped with industry-standard hardware and software
• Reading room, student services, and multifaith prayer rooms

Careers

The course is tailored for individuals aspiring to carve out a career within the diverse realms of the gaming industry, offering a broad foundation in game design principles while also allowing for later specialisation in areas such as game production, programming, and development.

Entry Requirements

• 96 UCAS Tariff points
• 5 GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above, including English and Maths
• If English is not the first language, a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.0 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification

Fees and Paying for University

• Tuition fees for UK students: £9,535 (2025/26)
• Tuition fees for international students: £16,700 (2025/26)
• Living costs: £7,000-£9,000 per year (estimated)

Apply

• UK students: Apply through UCAS
• International students: Apply direct

Life in Peterborough

• Study in the heart of Peterborough, a historic yet thriving city
• ARU Peterborough is easily accessible by public transport
• Get to know Peterborough and its surroundings