Games Design

BA Games Design is a course created to give you the opportunity to develop the skills required to design and build games for multiple platforms. The program encourages you to explore what the market is looking for and build solutions which meet the market’s needs for the next big game.

Based at the University’s brand new state of the art campus, Waterside, you will be using some of the most up-to-date games development software like that of Substance, Unity3D, UE4, Z Brush, 3DS Max, and the Adobe Creative Suite.
The University of Northampton is an academic partner of Unreal Engine, this means we are an official training site for UE4.
You will be taught in a way that encourages creativity and give you the opportunity to learn from those with industry experience.

Through a series of practical modules, you will be given the chance to explore the theory of design through to the development of quality prototypes for mobile, PC, and console. Key topics which will be covered include: Narrative theory, UX/UI, Introduction to Programming, 2D & 3D Skills, Engine Development, Design Management, and Professional Practice.

This course also forms part of a game development suite of courses which work together to give its students the experience of working with different skills sets within a games environment. Working together with students from BSc Games Programming and BA Games Art, you will gain the experience of working through the whole development cycle from idea generation to publishing. 95% of final year Computer games and animation students at The University of Northampton agreed they were satisfied with the course, while 100% of students agreed that staff have made the subject interesting.*

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

Course Modules

Stage 1

• Scripting for Games (compulsory)

• Level Design Principles (compulsory)

• 3D Modelling for Game Prototypes (compulsory)

• User Interface Design for Games (compulsory)

• Group Game Project: Fundamentals (compulsory)

• 2D Game Asset Production (compulsory)

Stage 2

• Narrative for Games (compulsory)

• Design and Development for Games (compulsory)

• Human Computer Interaction for Games (compulsory)

• Group Game Project Advanced (compulsory)

• Games Production (compulsory)

• Interaction Design for Games (compulsory)

Optional Placement Year

• Learning Through Work (WBL) (designated)

Stage 3

• Design Innovation (compulsory)

• Final Major Game Project (compulsory)

• Professional Game Industry Practice (compulsory)

• Group Game Project: Industry Practice (Games) (compulsory)

• Game Industry Report (Games) (compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 2026 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

Assessment is a mixture of studio based design projects (continual assessment), portfolio development, and written assignments.