Bachelor in Game Design with Foundation Year (Computing) BA (Hons)

Tuition costs 15,500 GBP per year.

Unleash your creativity at Derby

Join a creative, hands-on game design course designed by educators with direct industry experience on the original Tomb Raider series. Whether you are aiming for small indie teams or large AAA studios, this program equips you with the essential skills for game design, mechanics, narrative, and UI/UX design.

Why study this course?

• Collaborative studio environment working alongside Game Art and Programming students.
• Hands-on experience with industry-standard tools including Unreal Engine, Unity, Houdini, and Blender.
• Informed by industry professionals from teams including The Multiplayer Group, Tactile Games, and original Tomb Raider contributors.
• Access to bespoke facilities like the East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT) labs, motion capture, and XR equipment.

This four-year programme includes an initial foundation year designed to strengthen your technical, computational, and programming knowledge, ensuring you are fully prepared for the honours degree stage.

The University of Derby, established in 1851 and based in Derby, United Kingdom, combines a strong practical focus with supportive student services. With around 19,685 students and a welcoming international community, Derby offers career-oriented programs across business, engineering, health, arts and sciences. The campus is known for close links to local industry, applied research and professional training that help students develop workplace-ready skills.

Programs often feature placements, live client briefs and industry collaborations that give students hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Facilities include modern workshops, simulation suites and enterprise hubs designed to foster innovation and employability. Academic staff typically maintain strong professional connections, ensuring that teaching reflects current practice and employer expectations.

International students benefit from dedicated support including pre-arrival guidance, English language help and career services focused on internships and graduate employment. Derby’s manageable campus size, supportive teaching approach and emphasis on vocational outcomes make it a good fit for students seeking practical training and direct routes into employment. The university’s community-oriented setting supports both academic growth and personal development.