Game designer working on 3D renderings displayed across a dual-monitor computer setup.

Indie Game Development MA

Explore cross-disciplinary methods and launch your own indie game start-up with Falmouth’s top-rated MA in Indie Game Development. Create vibrant gaming experiences, guided by industry experts.
Time investment
2 years
Location
Online
Cost
£12,150
Language
English

About this degree

Develop vibrant indie games with this expert-led master’s programme

Unleash your creativity in game design and transform your ideas into otherworldly reality with Falmouth’s Online Master’s in Indie Game Development. Set yourself apart by mastering both the art and business of gaming.

Design innovative indie games using cross-disciplinary skills

You’ll explore the convergence of design, art, and programming as you craft innovative indie games. On the degree, you’ll learn to implement cross-disciplinary strategies that push creative boundaries and captivate audiences. 

Master art, design, and programming for game development

This degree aims to help you to develop a robust skill set in art, design, and programming.  You’ll learn to balance aesthetics with the technical capability to produce games that are both beautiful and functional. Think along the lines of game giants such as Bethesda, Square Enix, and Nintendo. 

Create compelling gameplay experiences with novel approaches

Next up, you’ll harness creative processes to design gameplay that stands out.  You’ll learn to innovate new gaming experiences that challenge traditional norms and engage players uniquely. The realm of gaming is expanding to Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and more. 

Navigate the challenges of launching an indie game start-up

You’ll grasp the essentials of indie game entrepreneurship. From conceiving a business idea to executing a market strategy, transform your passion into a successful venture. 

Begin by formulating a compelling and unique game concept that stands out in a crowded market. Learn to conduct comprehensive market research to understand your target audience and identify potential competitors.

Integrate industry-standard tools and technologies in game creation

Learn to seamlessly incorporate cutting-edge tools and technologies into your game development. Stay ahead with the latest engines, design interfaces, and programming languages.

Not only will you learn to create compelling game experiences, but you will also gain the entrepreneurial skills needed to launch your own indie game venture. With the support of expert practitioners, you will graduate ready to influence the gaming industry with innovative ideas and creative flair.

Where you’ll be studying

Studying at Falmouth University

Creativity is not just confined to campus. Falmouth University has been a leading creative institution for over 100 years and a pioneer in online study since 2016.

Learning outcomes

Design and implement innovative indie games using creative processes.

Master cross-disciplinary skills in art, design, and programming.

Evaluate market opportunities and craft a business plan for indie games.

Collaborate in diverse teams to solve game development challenges.

Reflect on and assess personal developmental goals in a gaming career.

Additional information

An honours degree or Level 6 equivalent qualification is desirable. However, candidates without a degree or formal qualification are still encouraged to apply. If you'd like to discuss our entry requirements, speak to an advisor.

For more information regarding equivalent international qualifications and Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) either request information with our easy online form, or read about it on our apply page.

This course is offered as a part-time program, allowing for flexible study options. Learners are expected to dedicate approximately 20-25 hours per week to their studies, enabling them to balance coursework with other commitments

Assessments are typically conducted through a combination of practical project work, presentations, and written reports, allowing students to demonstrate their skills in game development and creative processes.

  • Game Designer: Create and manage innovative game concepts, focusing on user experience and gameplay mechanics.
  • Indie Game Developer: Design, programme, and produce indie games from concept to release, often working in small teams or independently.
  • Game Producer: Oversee the production lifecycle of a game, ensuring timelines and budgets are met while managing cross-disciplinary teams.
  • Game Marketing Specialist: Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote indie games, focusing on brand awareness and audience engagement.
  • Creative Director: Set the visual and narrative style of a game, guiding the team to align with the creative vision.

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