Study gaming in the UK
Where can I study gaming in the UK?
The UK is full of world–class gaming degrees. With more than 200 undergraduate gaming courses in the UK,
and around 40 at postgraduate level, you won’t struggle to find great teaching in the specialisms that interest
you. So you’ll leave the UK with transferable skills and the kind of analytical, creative approach that you’ll need
for a global career.
The UK is full of world–class gaming degrees. With more than 200 undergraduate gaming courses in the UK,
and around 40 at postgraduate level, you won’t struggle to find great teaching in the specialisms that interest
you. So you’ll leave the UK with transferable skills and the kind of analytical, creative approach that you’ll need
for a global career.
How long does it take to graduate?
The modular structure of UK teaching means that you can often graduate and get out into the jobs market more
quickly than in other destinations. Most gaming–related degrees take three years at undergraduate level, with
some running over four to provide a year’s industry work experience. Postgraduate gaming degrees are usually
one or two years.
What are gaming courses like in the UK?
Different universities and courses will structure their teaching in different ways, but wherever you study you’ll be
able to choose flexible modules on all kinds of different aspects of gaming – from e–sports to smartphone apps
– with help from expert teachers who will provide you with all the support you need from day one.
You’ll also be learning in outstanding gaming labs. The UK is well known for having the space and technology
you need to experiment, including with motion capture.
What will I learn?
All UK gaming degrees have a strong focus on providing you with the skills you’ll need to embark on a
successful career. So you’ll have the chance to learn everything from coding and programming to game design
and game theory, as well as sales and marketing – invaluable if you plan to establish your own studio.
A lot of UK gaming courses are accredited by TIGA, the UK’s leading gaming authority. With their input,
universities can ensure that graduates leave with the kind of relevant skills the games industry needs.
TIGA–accredited courses are examined by a panel of industry and academic experts. To be accredited
universities must provide details of how many of their graduates work in the games industry. All of which helps
to make your chances of success higher when you graduate.
Why is the UK a good choice for gaming?
With 32 million gamers, the UK has the world’s sixth biggest gaming industry, and that passion means there’s
always a lot going on. From expos and gaming festivals to gameathons, you’ll find live events up and down the
country. The UK also has more than 2,200 gaming companies, many of which have close ties to university
departments, giving you plenty of ways to connect with likeminded professionals.Are there any scholarships for gaming?
Yes, there are lots of scholarships available to overseas gaming students, including many university bursaries.
You may also want to apply for the prestigious Chevening Scholarships or, if you are from a Commonwealth
country, you could apply for a Commonwealth Scholarship.
What are my work options after I graduate?
No matter what area you are most passionate about, the UK is the best possible place to start your gaming
career. Gaming holds amazing possibilities and can offer highly lucrative opportunities at all levels.
The industry itself is valued at £75 billion worldwide, and the average game developer salary is around £42,000
a year in the UK at present.
The industry is growing all the time, so whether you want to create innovative virtual reality training worlds or
start your own games business, you’ll acquire the skills and attitude you need to succeed when you study in the
UK.
International students can apply to stay and work in the UK for two years after graduating through the Graduate
Route.
To find out more about studying gaming in the UK and find a course,
