Games Development

Games development is the discipline of designing and building interactive digital experiences, from the initial concept and narrative design through to programming, art, audio, and testing. It is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global entertainment industry, and it demands a rare combination of creative vision, technical programming skill, and an understanding of how players think and interact. Games development professionals work across all stages of the production pipeline, and the discipline draws on computer science, art, animation, and film as well as the specific traditions of game design.

At Teesside University, this four-year, full-time programme includes a foundation year that builds the foundational understanding of games, animation, and film in their historical and contemporary contexts before you progress to degree-level development. You will develop an analytical and contextual understanding of games as a medium alongside the technical and creative skills needed to design and build them. The programme includes a sandwich placement year and work placement, giving you substantial professional experience in the games, animation, or film industry before you graduate.

Teesside has a well-established reputation in games development, with strong industry connections in the Tees Valley and beyond that support placement opportunities and graduate employment.

A typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects an accessible but competitive admissions profile. Graduates from games development programmes go on to careers as gameplay programmers, level designers, game artists, narrative designers, producers, quality assurance testers, and technical artists. The UK games industry is among the most significant in the world, and Teesside graduates are well regarded by employers across the sector.

Many graduates develop careers in adjacent industries such as virtual reality, simulation, digital advertising, and film visual effects, where the technical and creative skills of games development are equally valued. Further study at postgraduate level is an option for those who wish to develop specialist expertise in particular areas of the discipline.