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Qualification type
MA

Game Design

Study mode
Full-time
Duration
12 months
Start date and application deadlines
Start date
September 2026
Apply by:
Starts on:

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom.

How to apply
Applications for courses starting in September 2026 are now open. Submit your application today. Please note that the application deadlines for September 2026 courses are subject to change. Applications for courses starting in January 2026 are open, and you can apply today.
UK students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

Our how to apply pages provide further information about applying online for our taught postgraduate courses.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

International students

Apply for this course by:

There is no fee to apply for our courses. However, once you’ve been made an offer to study with us you are required to pay a fee deposit.

What you'll need

As part of the application process, you'll need to submit:

  • School or college transcripts/certificates
  • University transcripts and certified translations if applicable
  • Degree certificates
  • Evidence of English Language proficiency (EU and international applicants only)
  • Personal statement outlining your learning ambitions.

Our application process

  1. Sign into the University of Liverpool Application Portal and start your application
  2. Submit your application
  3. We'll email you to let you know we're processing your application
  4. Track the progress of your application using the Postgraduate Application Tracker (we'll send you a link to the tracker)
  5. We'll email you when a decision has been made
  6. If you've been made an offer, you can then accept or decline it using the Postgraduate Application Tracker.

Already a University of Liverpool student?

Apply faster with the quick apply form for current University of Liverpool students.

Need help applying?

We provide further information about applying online.

If you are unable to apply via our online form, or need further support, please contact the postgraduate enquiries team.

Combine this subject

With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.

  • Choose from 30 subjects and over 300 combinations
  • Choose joint or major minor subjects
  • Adjust the weight of your subjects at the end of your first year
  • Same number of credits as single honours students
  • Same classes as single honours students
  • Appeal to a wide range of employers

Explore combined degrees for Game Design courses

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About this course

Gaming is the highest net-value entertainment medium on the planet, with the videogame market estimated to be worth $363 million by 2027. This rapidly-growing industry needs graduates who possess not only the necessary creative skills, but a cultural and theoretical awareness.


Introduction

This exciting new programme builds on our popular Game Design BSc to equip students with the creative design skills that are in demand in this expanding industry. Online gaming and eSports – the most rapidly expanding areas – are a particular focus of this MA, as are inclusion and diversity.

You’ll develop a holistic suite of skills related to game design and development, such as proficiency in UI (User Interface)/UX (User Experience) Design and with popular game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine. This strong practical element will be underpinned by theoretical content which will help you understand the core principles of designing games for a global and diverse audience. You’ll gain familiarity with advanced technologies – including machine learning, AI and XR (Extended Reality) – which will help you keep apace with this rapidly developing sector.

Employability has been embedded into every aspect of the programme. The skills you gain will be applied through a range of assessment methods, designed to culminate in the creation of an asset portfolio which you’ll be able to showcase to prospective employers.


Who is this course for?

This master’s is suitable for students from a creative background who aspire to a career in game design and/or development.


What you'll learn

  • Advanced skills in particular aspects of creative game design, including audio design, spatial design and online gaming/e-sports design
  • The principles of advanced game design and development
  • How to design and implement UI (user interface) and UX (user experience) systems
  • The principles of designing and developing online games and e-Sports, as well as an awareness of related issues, including social responsibility and ethics
  • An awareness of diversity and inclusion issues, particularly in relation to representation, accessibility and gaming cultures
  • Communication and collaboration skills.
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Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Semester one

In your first semester, you’ll be introduced to the principles of game design and UX. We will also take a close look at online and e-Sports gaming.

Modules

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Semester two

In your second semester, you’ll deepen your practical and theoretical knowledge of design principles, UX, UI and relevant technologies. There will be a particular focus on creating inclusive game worlds.

Modules

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Final project

Your studies will culminate in a major project, either a substantial portfolio of assets (plus a written commentary) or a substantial piece of written work (plus illustrative practical outputs).

Modules

Compulsory modules Credits
MAJOR PROJECT: GAME DESIGN (MUSI700) 60

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Teaching and assessment

How you'll learn

You’ll be taught through a variety of methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials. The majority of teaching will be face-to-face, although some elements may be delivered remotely where this is considered appropriate. You’ll have opportunities to work collaboratively with your classmates on some projects, whilst others will be undertaken independently.

How you're assessed

You’ll be assessed throughout the programme through various methods, including presentations (video and in-person), prototypes, portfolios and essays. These assessment methods have been carefully considered to reflect the type of outputs you will deliver as a professional game designer/developer, thus preparing you for future employment.

Your degree will culminate in the creation of a major portfolio of assets (with accompanying commentary) which you’ll be able to show to prospective employers.

Liverpool Hallmarks

We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

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Your experience

As a Game Design student, you’ll benefit from our expertise in creative subjects such as Music, and have access to new and recently refurbished facilities. This includes dedicated spaces featuring gaming consoles (e.g. Playstation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch), high-spec gaming PCs, VR equipment and a diverse library of titles.

You’ll also have access to Windows and Mac labs.  These suites have a range of different software for content creation, including Unity and Unreal (game engines), FMOD (middleware for game sound and music), and Blender (modelling and animation).

For sound production, the Electronic Music Research Studios provide fully sound-proofed and treated studio spaces for surround sound mixing, electronic music composition and sound design research.

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Why study Communication and Media at Liverpool?

  • We have a long-standing reputation for innovative research in media, cultural and communication studies
  • The interest in contemporary communication is at the heart of our enterprise, though always with a focus on how the media deploy their affordances to communicative and social effect
  • There is a strong family-ethos within the department. Personal interaction with our students is at the heart of what we do
  • We have exciting partnerships with industry, arts and key creative venues both in the city and internationally and they collaborate with us as part of the programme offer
  • Ranked 4th in the sector for outstanding (4*) research impact, with 100% of our impact classified as either outstanding (4*) or very considerable (REF 2021)
  • Our programmes address a wide range of questions about the modern media industry, news, communication and social interaction in a lively and creative environment
  • Our internationally-acclaimed research is casting innovative light on many aspects of the discipline and engaging with the very latest topics, such as social media, populism, artificial intelligence, global media events, fake news and online harassment.
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Careers and employability

Digital games represent one of the fastest-growing forms of entertainment media. This programme aims to equip you with the technical, creative, and critical skills that will help you find employment in this dynamic and rapidly growing field, whilst assembling a professional portfolio of work.

You’ll be prepared for game industry roles related to level design, UI/UX design, 3D modelling, texturing, story/narrative design, and sound design/music composition.


Career support from day one to graduation and beyond

Career planning

Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.

From education to employment

We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.

Networking events

You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)

Full-time place, per year - £11,700

International fees

Full-time place, per year - £24,100

Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year. Tuition fees for the academic year 2026-27 will be announced soon.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.


Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.


Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

Graduate Loyalty Advancement Scholarship

Please note that this scholarship is only available for master's courses starting in January 2026.

John Lennon Memorial Scholarship

If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.

Postgraduate Opportunity Bursary

If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

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My qualifications are from United Kingdom.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

Qualification Details
Postgraduate entry requirements

We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a closely related subject, such as Game Design, Computer Science, Animation, Music Technology or Media Production.

Professional industry experience may also be considered. Applicants from a non-traditional background may be invited to interview and/or to submit a sample of work.

Applicants with a degree from another subject or non-traditional background are encouraged to contact the Programme Director before applying.

International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.


English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

Qualification Details
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19 
Duolingo English Test 120 overall, with no component below 95 
Pearson PTE Academic 61 overall, with no component below 59  
LanguageCert Academic 70 overall, with no skill below 60 
PSI Skills for English B2 Pass with Merit overall and no band below B2 Pass 
INDIA Standard XII National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC C6 or above

Pre-sessional English

Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Pre-sessional English in detail

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 6 weeks On campus
5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5, for further details.

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Entry requirements: which qualifications do you need?

More about life in Liverpool

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Why study at Liverpool?

Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.

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Accommodation

To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.

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Fees and Finance

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Contact us

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Last updated 1 October 2025 / Programme terms and conditions

Changes to Game Design MA

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.