Bachelor in 2027

Sheffield Hallam University, established in 1843 and based in Sheffield, is a large modern university serving around 31,000 students, including approximately 3,100 international learners. The university is known for applied teaching, industry-aligned courses and strong professional links across disciplines from business and health to engineering and the creative industries. Students benefit from modern facilities, well-equipped labs and specialist studios tailored to career-focused learning.

The campus ethos emphasizes employability: placements, work-based projects and employer partnerships are embedded across many programs, helping students gain practical experience and build professional networks. Academic staff work closely with industry and regional employers on applied research and innovation, creating pathways into internships and graduate roles. Dedicated student support services assist with academic skills, careers advice and wellbeing.

Sheffield itself is a friendly, affordable student city with good transport links to the north of England and easy access to green spaces and cultural venues. International students often highlight the city’s welcoming community, active student societies and opportunities to balance study with outdoor activities. For those seeking a practical, career-oriented university experience in the UK, Sheffield Hallam offers strong employer engagement, supportive services and an accessible urban lifestyle.

Through modules like Digital Prototyping and Game Design Practice, you will bridge the gap between initial concept and playable reality. This foundation year programme is specifically crafted for aspiring developers who need extra preparation, academic grounding, or a creative boost before diving into the full-scale BA (Hons) Games Design and Development degree. Based at Sheffield Business School in the heart of the city, the course offers a unique blend of business acumen and technical experimentation, ensuring you aren't just a creator, but a professional ready for the industry.

You will work in a supportive, studio-based environment that challenges you to move beyond theory. Whether it is through paper prototyping, experimental controller design, or collaborative game projects, you are encouraged to take risks. The curriculum is heavily focused on applied learning, meaning your time is spent creating, pitching, and iterating on your ideas. By the end of the foundation year, you will have developed the academic research, communication, and technical skills necessary to thrive in the competitive digital media landscape.

Industry-Connected Development

The programme benefits from strong ties to the Media Arts and Communications department, with access to resources supported by industry leaders like Sony PlayStation. You will learn from practitioners such as narrative designer Tom Battey, ensuring your education is rooted in current industry practice rather than just textbooks.