University of Surrey

MSc Psychology in Game Design and Digital Innovation

University of Surrey

Course overview

This master's degree is at the forefront of an emerging field, combining psychological principles and research with game design and digital innovation. The programme offers comprehensive training in the psychological theories that underpin the cognitive, emotional, social, and ethical aspects of digital experiences. In this course, you will learn how to create gaming and digital products that are engaging, immersive, and beneficial to users.

Students explore key topics such as motivation, attention, and social behaviour, alongside principles of game design and ethical considerations. The course will also allow you to work on projects that apply this knowledge to real-world game development challenges, which may include designing their own games or conducting user research studies.

Entry requirements

To be enrolled, candidates need to submit a personal statement and a relevant academic and/or employer reference. Students have the option to upload their CV along with their applications to demonstrate their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • You need a minimum of a second-class undergraduate degree (2:2 minimum), or an international equivalent, in a relevant subject such as Psychology, Computer Science, Media and Communication, or Game Design.
  • Candidates who have other degrees will be considered if they have enough relevant professional experience in an area such as game design or digital innovation.

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants from non-English speaking backgrounds need an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in all other sections, or they may submit equivalent English language test scores.

Scholarships

  • Discounts for Surrey Graduates

    As graduate of Surrey you may be eligible for a 20 per cent discount on our taught masters programme fees.

    Up to 20% of fees
  • Early Payment Discount

    The discount is awarded as a £2,000 fee waiver for eligible students in the first year of their studies.

    Up to £2,000
  • ICAEW Foundation Bursary

    The ICAEW Foundation Bursary will be given as a one-off payment of £5,000 for one year of postgraduate study.

    Up to £5,000
  • International Alumni Discount for Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS

    The discount of 20% only applies to the first year of the Medicine (Graduate Entry) BMBS programme.

    Up to 20% of fees
  • International Excellence Award (Postgraduate)

    This prestigious £5,000 award recognises academic excellence and is awarded to selected students starting a masters degree at Surrey.

    Up to £5,000
  • ISTAT Foundation Scholarship Program

    Contributing to the development of future aviation professionals by providing funds and avenues for students with a keen interest in commercial aviation.

  • Surrey MBA AI Pathfinders Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Eastern Europe Bridge Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Employer Partnership Scholarship

    This scholarship allows the Surrey MBA to match employer contributions towards the tuition fee up to 40%.

  • Surrey MBA Enterprise Trailblazer Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Service Stewardship Scholarship

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10–50% of tuition fees, depending on the applicant’s profile and interview performance.

  • Surrey MBA Women in Leadership

    This is a partial scholarship that covers 10 – 50% of the tuition fee.

Career opportunities

Graduates are well-prepared to enter the globally expanding gaming sector and wider digital innovation industry, applying psychological expertise to user experience.

  • User Experience (UX) Researcher
  • Games Designer
  • Digital Innovation Consultant
  • Behavioural Scientist
  • Product Manager

Cost of study

The tuition fee for the MSc Psychology in Game Design and Digital Innovation at the University of Surrey is £22,700 for international students.

Admission

International students can apply for this course directly to the university. Please speak with our experienced counsellors for assistance.

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