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GAMES DESIGN DEGREE BA (Hons) - Modules

YEAR 1 

Creativity and Context for Games (20 credits)

An academic approach to the study of games design, looking at theories of play and the history of games in the context of human history from early civilisations to the present day. 

Creative Thinking (40 credits)

An opportunity to learn about the broader elements of the creative process, touching on narrative, sound design, and world building.  Students will be able to explore their understanding of a range of elements of games design. 

Introduction to Games Design (40 credits)

This module introduces students to some core theories behind games and gameplay.  Looking at tabletop games, students will analyse play experience through the study of mechanics, calibration, balance, narrative, currency, and key analytical frameworks. They will also be introduced to Unreal Engine touching on Blueprints and basic game construction, exploring the creation of simple mechanics and systems.   

Introduction to 3D Modelling (20 credits)

This module introduces core 3D modelling concepts. Alongside fundamental technical practice in 3D modelling, the students will be introduced to PBR materials and learn the importance of observation and analysis. 

YEAR 2 

Heading into the Games Industry (20 credits)

Designed to give students an understanding of how the games industry is structured, the range of job finding activities available to them, and making themselves appealing candidates through CV, portfolio, networking, self-promotion, and interpersonal skills development. 

Games Development (40 credits)

Gives students the opportunity to iterate their knowledge gained so far with a view to understanding the technical and creative building blocks of game development including level design.  Made up of a number of short ‘rapid prototyping’ projects designed to highlight technical and creative skills; along with an introduction to industry standard documents.    

3D Modelling (40 credits)

This module will develop more advanced 3D modelling processes incorporating modular modelling, trim sheets, high to low polygon retopology workflows as well as more advanced PBR material creation. 

Games Specialism (20 credits)

A module which gives students the opportunity to test two areas of interest and undertake two projects with the view to learning new skills and identifying a possible area of specialism in their final year for their future career path or postgraduate study. 

YEAR 3 

Honours Project (60 credits)

Students negotiate a substantial final year practical project, underpinned by research, focussed on career direction or postgraduate study. New learning is a key aspect of the module, along with research and iteration. 

Games Proposal (60 credits)

A year long project requiring students to create a playable demo of a game. This to be supported with industry standard documentation along with reflections on their creative and technical progress.

 

WHAT ARE CREDITS? 

As a guide, 20 credits typically represents around 52 hours of tutor contact time (e.g. lectures/workshops/feedback) and 148 hours of self-study time (usually over the course of a semester). These numbers may increase or decrease depending on the nature, length and level of the module, especially towards the end of the course.