Games Design

Embark on an exciting journey into the dynamic, ever-evolving multi-billion-pound gaming industry. Here, you'll develop both creative and technical skills to become a successful game artist, prepared to shape the future of video games.

Immerse yourself in the art and design of video games as you learn foundational game art principles alongside traditional art techniques. Unleash your creativity, express your ideas through storyboards, and bring them to life in interactive prototypes to craft unique experiences for gamers.

You’ll master essential skills in drawing, concept art, modelling, and texturing using industry-standard 3D software and the latest game engine technology—all within our dedicated games design labs, supported by skilled technicians and lecturers.

Join a vibrant, creative community where you'll collaborate on joint projects with like-minded peers and expand your network of creative professionals.

Course Overview

Our BA (Hons) Games Design course is perfect for aspiring game designers eager to make their mark in the multi-billion-pound games sector. Based at our dedicated arts campus, you'll be part of a thriving creative community, collaborating with students across art, animation, and media disciplines.

This is a design-focused degree—not a programming course—so your time will be dedicated to the art, storytelling, and creative vision behind games. You’ll learn how to develop concepts, craft storyboards, and bring your ideas to life through 2D and 3D playable prototypes. From drawing and visualisation to 3D modelling, texturing, and concept art, you'll master the essential tools of the trade using industry-standard software and game engines.

With 75% of the course delivered through practical learning, you’ll gain real-world experience working on individual and group projects, including a final-year major project and group game production. Modules also explore game theory, the creative economy, professional practice, and audience engagement, giving you a complete understanding of the games design pipeline and industry landscape.

You'll graduate with a standout portfolio, ready to launch a successful career in games design or the wider creative industries.

On this course you will...
• Have regular guest lectures with industry professionals.



• Study game design and development with access to dedicated games design labs and industry-standard software, providing a friendly, collegiate and supportive environment.



• Learn computer games-specific topics like drawing and concept art, character design, environment design, 3D modelling, texturing, level design, and game theory.



• Have the opportunity to take trips outside of the lab to gain inspiration and improve creative thinking. In previous years, they have included games expo - EGX and Develop: Brighton.



• Develop a wide range of transferable digital skills allowing you to take up a number of internships during your studies.



• Have access to borrow our motion capture software and VR headsets.

With campuses in the Lake District, Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, Barrow, and London, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty, supportive communities, and real opportunities.

With strong links to law firms, schools, NHS Trusts, creative agencies, and employers nationwide, we connect your learning directly to your future career.

Ranked the No. 1 university in the Northwest and in the Top 5 in the UK for Graduates into employment or further study within 15 months (97.5% of Graduates – Graduate Outcomes Survey, HESA 2026), Cumbria is a university focused on your future from day one.