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Computer Games Art, BA (Hons), University of Portsmouth

the United Kingdom

University of Portsmouth

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The award How you will study Study duration Course start Domestic course fees International course fees
BA (Hons)Full-time, Sandwich3 - 4 yearsSeptemberfind outfind out

About Computer Games Art, BA (Hons) - at University of Portsmouth

Overview

Discover the power of art in games by studying BA (Hons) Computer Games Art at Portsmouth – two-time winner of TIGA's Best Educational Institution award (2021, 2014).

You'll delve into how game assets are created and used by exploring game art and developing your skills across drawing, modelling, animation, texturing, and composition. You can apply that knowledge in many ways, from collaborating with fellow students on live industry projects to working professionally on an optional placement. With our established relationships with acclaimed national and international games companies – including Rare, Codemasters, Jagex, Stainless, and Climax – you’ll always stay on top of the latest industry standards.

By the end of this course, you'll become a versatile games artist ready to transform the games, creative, and tech industries.

Course highlights

  • Develop traditional art knowledge by learning concepts such as art theory, observational life drawing, high-resolution digital sculpting, digital substance creation and texture painting
  • Gain skills in 3D art by working with real-time engine-compatible 3D modelling, animation rigging and skinning, and engine special effects – with games engines like Unreal and motion capture technologies
  • Work with the latest and future technologies in our impressive facilities, including the UK's first ever Centre for Creative Immersive and Extended Reality (CCIXR)
  • Enhance your teamworking skills by collaborating with other Games students on game projects, including our annual prize-giving University GameJam
  • Expand your cultural horizons by studying abroad in Europe as part of the Turing Scheme
  • Wow potential future employers by showcasing your final-year work at our annual Graduate Showcase

Careers and opportunities

With an estimated global value of $131.23 billion (£97.95 billion) in 2020, the computer games industry is a force to be reckoned with. In the UK, it contributed £2.2 billion to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2019/20, and the number of workers in the field grew to 18,279 (TIGA, 2020).

As the game industry and its workforce continue to expand – especially across sectors adopting its technologies and systems – multi-skilled and specialist graduates are more in demand than ever before.

Areas you can work in with a Computer Games Art degree

Areas you can work in include:

  • computer games development
  • visual effects
  • synthetic training for healthcare, security, and defence
  • simulation development
  • architectural/historical visualisation
  • marketing
  • advertising

Jobs you can do with a Computer Games Art degree

Roles you can work in include:

  • Games Artist
  • 3D Artist
  • Environment Artist
  • Character Artist
  • 3D Generalist
  • Real Time Effects Artist
  • Technical Artist
  • Indie Games Developer

Continuing your studies

You can also advance your studies to Master's level on MA or MSc courses focused on Games Art, as well as Computing courses depending on your specialisation.

Placement year (optional)

After your second or third year, you can complete an optional work placement to gain professional experience and enhance your skills. It's also a great incentive for employers once you graduate.

You can work for a company, organisation or agency, or you can go self-employed and start your own business with fellow students or by yourself.

Whatever you decide – or even if you just want some employability advice – our exclusive Creative Careers team can support you every step of the way.

Notes about fees for this course

https://www.port.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/undergraduate-fees-and-student-finance

Entry requirements

112-120 points to include a minimum of 2 A levels, or equivalent. A relevant qualification or experience in art/design/creative computing or graphic arts is required. Applicants without relevant qualifications will be asked to provide a portfolio to support their application.

English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.

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Related Information

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