COURSE CURRICULUM

This BA (Hons) Game Design programme at the University of Derby is structured to develop both creative and technical game design expertise, progressing from foundational principles into advanced studio-style production. In the early stage, core modules such as Art and Design Fundamentals, 3D Modelling, Programming, Game Engines, Game Design Fundamentals, and Level Design introduce students to the essential building blocks of interactive media, including gameplay systems, player experience, basic coding logic, and the creation of 3D assets using industry-standard tools. Alongside this, students begin to understand how design decisions affect gameplay, storytelling, and user engagement across different types of games. As the course develops, students move into collaborative, studio-simulated environments through modules like Game Lab 1 and Game Lab 2, where they work in multidisciplinary teams alongside artists and programmers to respond to realistic industry briefs using agile workflows, sprint planning, version control, and professional production pipelines. These modules place strong emphasis on communication, problem-solving, and project management, while also introducing ethical and legal considerations such as the responsible use of generative AI. Further progression into Technical Game Design 1 and Game Narratives and Worldbuilding deepens understanding of mechanics, systems design, storytelling structures, and immersive world creation, enabling students to design more complex and engaging player experiences. In the final stage, Game Development and Technical Game Design 2 focus on end-to-end production, where teams take a game from concept through to a fully playable prototype or near-gold release, integrating design, narrative, and technical implementation. The Individual Project and optional modules such as UI/UX Design and Emerging Technologies allow students to specialise and refine their portfolio. Overall, the programme prepares graduates for careers in game design, level design, systems design, or indie development, while also building adaptability for AAA studios and emerging interactive media industries.