Game Design and Development

A BSc Level 8 honours degree (NFQ or other internationally recognised equivalent) with a significant component of software development, such as a BSc in Game Design or Game Development, Computer Science, with at least a 2.2 honours plus portfolio examination. In lieu of this, professional programming experience/ability, professional game design experience/ability and portfolio of existing game work in either game design or game programming. Applicants may be called for an interview.

Suitable for BSc for an option of a 3+2 according to Bologna Agreement.

WHAT TO INCLUDE WITH YOUR APPLICATION:

• Qualification transcripts and/or certificates (including certified English translations if applicable)
• English language qualification(s) (if English is not your first language)
• A copy of your birth certificate (long document)

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of either prior successful completion of a degree qualification taught through the medium of English or meet one of the criteria below (no longer than two years prior to application):

Acceptable English Language qualifications include the following:

• Matriculation examinations from European countries where English is presented as a subject and an acceptable level is achieved
• Irish Leaving Certificate English –Ordinary Level Grade D or above
• TOEFL – 580 (paper based) or 90 (internet based)
• IELTS – Minimum score of 6.5 with no less than 6 in any one component.
• English Test for English and Academic Purposes (ETAPP) – Grade C1
• GCE ‘O’ level English Language/GCSE English Language – Grade C or above
• University of Cambridge ESOL –Certificate of Proficiency in English - Grade C / Certificate in Advanced English - Grade A
• GCE Examination Boards – Oxford Delegacy of Local Examinations – Grade C / Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate – School Certificate Pass 1-6 / University of London Entrance and School Examinations Council – School Certificate Pass 1-6

Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements. Contact the International Education Division for advice.

The M.Sc. in Game Design and Development aims to equip graduates with the skills, knowledge and abilities to:

• Create compelling interactive works individually or with a team using standard industry methods and milestones
• Demonstrate an understanding of the theory and recurring fundamental concepts of game design and development.
• Integrate knowledge of existing works, game design and development to produce innovative games.
• Rapidly iterate upon a game concept and integrate player feedback.
• Assess a game's design or new technologies to assist with decision-making and adaptation of features as they relate to a game's core.
• Analyse the systems integration and dynamics and advise on iteration and implementation.
• Evaluate a game's requirements, scope, opportunities and limitations to improve production, efficiency and the end product.