Course Overview
Course summary
The Games Art BA will provide you with the creative and technical skills needed to make games come to life. You’ll be prepared to become a games artist who can concept and develop unique and engaging visual experiences, across a wide range of creative industries and emerging technologies.
In the first year, you’ll study alongside Games Design BA students, focusing on core principles of games art and design, research skills, and the societal role of games. You’ll develop abilities in concept design, game mechanics, level design, 2D asset creation, 3D modelling, and game engines. By the end of your first year, you’ll have the choice to continue with the Games Art BA or change your specialism to Games Design BA.
In the second and third years, you’ll refine your skills, creating advanced 2D/3D characters and environments while exploring areas like visual effects, virtual reality, and user interface design. Additionally, you’ll explore global audiences, cultural impacts, and inclusivity within gaming. You’ll also investigate industries using games for entertainment and social purposes, such as educational gaming.
Collaboration is central to this course, with opportunities to work on inter-disciplinary projects, critiques and game jams alongside students from Animation, Graphic Design, Illustration and Computer Games Development courses. These activities mirror industry practices, ensuring a professional-level learning experience, where artists and designers work together.
Based at our Harrow Campus, you'll work in specialised facilities, including our new Games Hub and Emerging Media Space, as well as in our Design, Film and Digital Media studios.
The course fosters confidence and encourages independent thinking, preparing you for roles such as Concept Artist, 3D Environment Artist, Animator, or Technical Artist.
Top reasons to study with us
- Study in London – the heart of the UK Game development industry. With hundreds of games developers and publishers in the UK based here, you’ll have many opportunities to hear from industry guest speakers, and access internships, professional experience and graduate employment
- Multidisciplinary collaboration – You'll have the opportunity to take part in industry projects and competitions such as game jams. You'll engage with learning that is directly industry-related and will collaborate with game designers working on projects
- Outstanding facilities – You'll benefit from a brand-new Games Hub and Emerging Media Space, which includes our upgraded Motion Capture lab
- Work experience before graduation – As part of the course, you'll have the option to undertake a placement year, gaining valuable work experience and boosting your employability
Course structure
The Games Art BA and Games Design BA begin with a shared first year, before branching into specialised pathways. These pathways, along with a variety of optional modules, provide you with the opportunity to customise your degree and expertise according to your interests and career objectives.
You’ll have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals throughout the course. You can also benefit from our industry links by opting to complete a work placement year or expand your educational experience by studying aboard between Years 2 and 3.
The following subjects are indicative of what you'll study on this course.
Core modules include:
- 2D Game Development
- 3D Asset Creation
- Creative Technology and Design
- Environment Art and Design
- Game Engines and Mechanics
Option modules include:
- 2D Computer Animation
- Drawing Explorations
- Typography
Credit Level 4
Core modules include:
- 3D World Creation
- Character Design and Development
- Concepting for Games
Option modules include:
- Brands
- Extended Reality for Creative
- Interactive Texts and Narratives
- Stop-Motion Animation
- UX/UI Design
- VFX for Film and Games
- Visual Storytelling
- Web Design
Credit Level 5
You’ll also have the opportunity to take an additional year between Levels 5 and 6 (second and third year) to spend on professional experience or international experience. The international experience (study abroad) year offers one or two semesters studying at one of our overseas partner Universities. This is both an exciting experience and also one that helps you to develop the global outlook by employers. The professional experience (placement) year is planned in partnership with the Westminster Work Based Learning team.
Find out more about the costs involved in taking a placement year.
Core modules include:
- Games Portfolio
- Major Project (Games Art)
Option modules include:
- Contextual Research Project
- Designing Narrative Experiences
- Digital Arts Experimentation
- Entrepreneurship for Creatives
Credit Level 6
Programme recognition
The course has membership of The Independent Game Developers Association Limited (“TIGA”) which gives students on this course the opportunity to enter relevant categories of the TIGA Games Industry Awards and TIGA UK Games Education Awards categories, as well as the opportunity to access membership only event(s).
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Study Games Art BA
Open days
Join us at an open day online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
Can't attend? See more open events
Careers
Industry engagement
Industry speakers and guest lecturers give students insight into working in the industry, provide mentorship as part of their group project work and offer specialised feedback on their portfolios and CVs.
One-to-one advice
Our Careers and Employability Service can provide you with industry mentoring, one-to-one guidance, mock interviews, employer presentations and workshops.
3,000 Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Industry links and work experience
Based just a 20-minute tube ride from the heart of the city, you'll have easy access to the wealth of media, creative and gaming industries in London.
You can experience cultural life in London, while also gaining work experience and building your professional networks, which is crucial for success in the industry.
We sustain a range of formal and informal partnerships with industry through visiting professionals, work experience, staff exchange and consultation. Industry engagement is an essential part of the course as students will hear from industry speakers as part of their course.
Graduate employers
Students studying games at the University of Westminster have found positions in games companies after graduation that have including Sega, KING, Microsoft, TT Games, Sumo Digital, Bossa Studios, Game Realms, and NaturalMotion.
Job roles
This course will prepare you for a variety of roles in a range of present and future industries, including:
- 3D Character Artist
- 3D Environment Artist
- 3D Generalist
- 2D Animator
- 2D Character Artist
- Concept Artist
- Technical Artist
- Texture / Material Artist
- UI Artist
- VFX Artist
Westminster Employability Award
Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.
The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities.
Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.
Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.
International Opportunities
Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.
Opportunities could include:
- Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
- Attending an international summer school or field trip
- Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad
International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.
Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.
Course Leader
Dominic Chapman
Assistant Head of School
A practising game developer with over eighteen years of industry experience, Dominic runs his own independent games company to create immersive video game experiences. As an educator Dominic's research interests are focused on world building and immersive experiences. He is also supportive of the games industry through his work with the Games Eden organisation and as a trustee of Gamebridge.
Our undergraduate games courses are focused on making you ready for an exciting career in the games industry, whether you want to be indie, AAA, or anything in between.
Course Team
Why study this course?
Study in London
Our varied London campuses mean that you'll be perfectly placed to take advantage of career and collaboration opportunities in the heart of the UK games industry.
Outstanding Facilities
Our new Games Hub and Emerging Media Space feature industry-standard games workspaces, lighting and production equipment, as well as VR and AR facilities and 360-degree camera technology.
Extra-curricular activities
Students are encouraged to take part in national and international game jams, including the University of Westminster's own Games Jam, to improve their portfolios and experience (Global Game Jam, Tranzfuser, UKIE).
Entry Requirements
- A levels – CCC (96 UCAS Tariff points)
- T levels – 96 UCAS Tariff points
- International Baccalaureate – 96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis
- BTEC Extended Diploma – MMM
- BTEC Diploma – DD
- Access – 96 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths Pass– IB Pass
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
More information
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process
Portfolio guidance
Number of recommended portfolio pieces.
Please include between 10 - 15 pieces of work.
What should I include in my portfolio submission?
Ideally your portfolio should include:
- a balance of initial sketches and visual explorations as well as more resolved final work or artefacts.
- at least one entire project that was created for a specific audience, showing development from the seeds of an idea to final outcome.
- work that shows your range of technical and creative abilities.
- explorations of varied media are appreciated, such as digital images, traditional artwork, print media, games, animation, film, web, sculpture, printmaking, photography, textiles, or installation.
- a short sentence with each piece that helps us understand ideas behind the work and your creative thought process.
How should I structure my portfolio?
You can submit your portfolio in one of two ways.
- Upload your work to a digital portfolio platform such as Behance.net, flickr.com, ArtStation.com, or other.
- Create a digital portfolio as a PDF document and upload to a cloud storage platform such as Google Docs, OneDrive, Dropbox, or other.
We would like you to copy and paste the portfolio web-link into a word/text document and upload that to the Applicant Portal, as per instructions on the cover email. Importantly, please ensure there are no passwords or expiry dates on the portfolio so that we can view it without requesting access.
How will my portfolio be evaluated?
Your portfolio will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Creativity and Originality - We are looking for work that reflects your individual style and ideas.
- Technical Proficiency and Skill - Demonstrate your abilities in your chosen specialism/s.
- Passion and Potential for Growth - Show your passion and potential for growth while on our degree.
You may be invited to an interview to discuss your portfolio. We are keen that you use this process to help us to understand you as an individual, including your skills, your inspirations and current expertise.
What happens next?
Selected applicants receiving an offer will be invited to an applicant event that allows you to experience the university campus and course learning. This event also provides a chance for us to learn more about you and your creative goals.
Top Tip from our course team
We want to see work that you are proud of and which demonstrates your ideas, interests, and creative skills.
Please do not send in portfolios until requested to do so by the University's Admissions team. You will be notified by email about when to submit your portfolio.
- International Baccalaureate – 96 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme. International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score
- We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications. Please see information on Country-specific entry requirements
- We work in partnership with Kaplan International College London who provide International Foundation Certificate courses for students who don’t meet our entry requirements. Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Westminster. Find out about a range of university preparation courses that are accepted for entry.
English language requirements
- If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component. Please note we accept a wide range of English language qualifications and assessments. Find out more at English language requirements.
- If you don't meet the English language requirements yet, then we offer online and on campus pre-sessional English programmes to help develop your English language skills to the required level before you start your course. Find out more about our pre-sessional English programmes.
More information
Portfolio guidance
Number of recommended portfolio pieces.
Please include between 10 - 15 pieces of work.
What should I include in my portfolio submission?
Ideally your portfolio should include:
- a balance of initial sketches and visual explorations as well as more resolved final work or artefacts.
- at least one entire project that was created for a specific audience, showing development from the seeds of an idea to final outcome.
- work that shows your range of technical and creative abilities.
- explorations of varied media are appreciated, such as digital images, traditional artwork, print media, games, animation, film, web, sculpture, printmaking, photography, textiles, or installation.
- a short sentence with each piece that helps us understand ideas behind the work and your creative thought process.
How should I structure my portfolio?
You can submit your portfolio in one of two ways.
- Upload your work to a digital portfolio platform such as Behance.net, flickr.com, ArtStation.com, or other.
- Create a digital portfolio as a PDF document and upload to a cloud storage platform such as Google Docs, OneDrive, Dropbox, or other.
We would like you to copy and paste the portfolio web-link into a word/text document and upload that to the Applicant Portal, as per instructions on the cover email. Importantly, please ensure there are no passwords or expiry dates on the portfolio so that we can view it without requesting access.
How will my portfolio be evaluated?
Your portfolio will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Creativity and Originality - We are looking for work that reflects your individual style and ideas.
- Technical Proficiency and Skill - Demonstrate your abilities in your chosen specialism/s.
- Passion and Potential for Growth - Show your passion and potential for growth while on our degree.
You may be invited to an interview to discuss your portfolio. We are keen that you use this process to help us to understand you as an individual, including your skills, your inspirations and current expertise.
What happens next?
Selected applicants receiving an offer will be invited to an applicant event that allows you to experience the university campus and course learning. This event also provides a chance for us to learn more about you and your creative goals.
Top Tip from our course team
We want to see work that you are proud of and which demonstrates your ideas, interests, and creative skills.
Please do not send in portfolios until requested to do so by the University's Admissions team. You will be notified by email about when to submit your portfolio.
Learn new skills
Learn a new language
From Arabic to Spanish, you can learn a new language alongside your degree with our Polylang programme.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your startup projects.
Gain extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £9,250 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
Virtual facilities tour
Take a virtual tour through Westminster’s exciting Games Hub, which opened at the University’s Harrow Campus in summer 2024. The features of the new Games Hub include:
- A brand new open zone for students to work in
- An ‘inspiration corner’ with relevant games, books and videos for students to collaborate, and to help spark creative outputs
- An upgraded Emerging Media Space with sandbox environments for students to experiment with new and relevant gaming technologies
- VR and AR facilities and 360-degree camera technology
- A brand-new Games Hub with industry-standard games workspaces, lighting and production equipment
Teaching and Assessment
How you'll be taught
Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you'll be assessed
Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.
Assessments typically fall into three broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
- Written exams: end of semester exams
- Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2024/25
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course location
Harrow is our creative and cultural hub, home to most of our arts, media and digital courses. It houses state-of-the-art facilities for every discipline, including project and gallery spaces, film studios, creative labs, collaborative learning spaces, and the Westminster Enterprise Network.
Harrow Campus is based in north-west London, just 20 minutes from the city centre by train.
For more details, visit our Harrow Campus page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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