BA Computer Games Design

The BA (Hons) Computer Games Design at the University of Portsmouth is a good course for students who want to learn how to create games that people enjoy. You will develop creative and technical skills to help you figure out how games are made and what makes them fun to play.

You will study different parts of game design, including gameplay, storytelling, psychology, user experience, and how game systems work. You will also learn practical skills such as coding, 3D modelling, and digital design. You will get the chance to work on real game projects by yourself and with other students, from the early ideas to the finished game.

Studying the BA (Hons) Computer Games Design at the University of Portsmouth means learning from teachers who have real experience working in the games industry. Some of them have worked with well-known companies such as Rare, Codemasters, and Jagex.

You can either choose to focus on art or programming, depending on what you enjoy most. There is also an optional work placement, which gives you the chance to get real-world experience before you finish your studies.

The University of Portsmouth is a public university in the city of Portsmouth, England. It started as a college in 1870 and attained full university status in 1992. Since then, it has expanded and is now a significant part of the city’s education.

Portsmouth offers several courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Students can pursue subjects across five faculties, including: Business and Law, Creative and Cultural Industries, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Health, and Technology. The university aims to provide programmes that are relevant to industry and professional practice.

The university has a strong Students' Union that plays a central role in organising activities that cover students’ interests. The city itself also offers plenty for students, from its historical dockyard to Southsea beach, and a local music and food scene. 

A relevant qualification or experience in art/design/creative computing or graphic arts is required. Applicants who do not have relevant qualifications will be asked to provide a portfolio to support their application.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants should possess a UCAS tariff score of 120-128 to be considered for this course. This can be achieved through qualifications such as A Levels (ABB-BBB); T Levels (Merit); BTECs (DDM-DMM); and International Baccalaureate of 25. 

English Proficiency:

• International students whose first language is not English are to show proficiency in English by having an IELTS score of 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each of the four elements. 
• Equivalent qualifications such as TOEFL and PTE Academic are also accepted. 

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the tuition fee to study the BSc Computer Games Design at the University of Portsmouth is £17,900. Please note that fees are subject to annual increase.

International students at Portsmouth have access to several scholarships and financial aid options that can reduce their financial burden. One of these scholarships is the Chancellor’s Global Academic Merit Scholarship. This scholarship awards up to £5,000 towards a reduction in tuition fees to eligible students in their first year of study. The scholarship is based on merit and applicants must have applied and accepted their academic offer by the given deadline.  

Additionally, the Vice Chancellor’s Global Development Scholarship also offers a £2,500 fee reduction that will apply to the first year of study. To be eligible, you must be a self-funded student on a full-time and on-campus course with annual fees of £16,200 or above for September 2025 entry.

Graduates of the BA Computer Games Design from the University of Portsmouth are qualified for employment in roles such as the following:

• Game Designer 
• Game Programmer 
• App Developer 
• Game Animator 
• VFX Artist 
• Level Designer

Applications for this course can be made using the university's online website. If you have any questions about this process, feel free to speak with our expert counsellors at AHZ.