COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Psychology of Gaming and Game Design offers a comprehensive program that integrates psychological theory with practical applications in game design and digital experiences. In the first semester, students engage with core modules on psychology and game design, as well as enhancing engagement through gameful design, which examine how psychological principles can shape interactive and immersive gaming experiences. Optional modules allow students to tailor their learning, covering topics such as research training, qualitative methods, advanced research design, extended reality, and fundamental concepts in social psychology, providing a solid foundation in both psychology and emerging technologies. The second semester builds on this knowledge with compulsory modules in quantitative research methods and advanced topics in game and digital experiences, focusing on applying rigorous data-driven approaches to evaluate and improve gaming and digital environments. Additional optional modules explore areas such as cognitive psychology, digital technology and human behaviour, writing for gaming, and social and cognitive development, enabling students to deepen their expertise in specific aspects of game design and user experience. Across both semesters, students complete a year-long dissertation, allowing them to conduct independent research that combines theoretical knowledge with practical, industry-relevant skills. This structured approach equips graduates with the expertise to pursue careers in game design, human-computer interaction, and user experience research within the growing gaming sector.