MA Game Design from Berlin School of Business and Innovation

The MA Game Design provides postgraduate-level study across creative game development, research and professional practice. The 18-month programme consists of three teaching terms followed by a six-month dissertation period. Students begin with Expressive Game Design and Games Research and Professional Contexts, before progressing to the Prototyping Lab: Genre and Affect and further professional-context research. The final term centres on the Games Design Major Project. Throughout the course, students explore game mechanics, aesthetics, player experience, prototyping and contemporary development methods while strengthening research and critical evaluation skills. Practical and theoretical learning supports both independent and collaborative work. Students also develop capabilities in interdisciplinary communication, project management and professional practice, preparing them to approach game development within the wider creative industries.

The MA Game Design at BSBI Hamburg is designed for students and professionals who want to deepen their understanding of interactive entertainment and digital game development. Delivered in English over 18 months, the programme combines creative experimentation with academic research, technical development and professional practice. Students investigate expressive game design, prototyping, game research and professional contexts before completing a substantial final game design project. The course encourages students to develop original concepts, examine game mechanics and aesthetics, test creative ideas and build a professional body of work. It is suitable for aspiring game designers as well as applicants with interests or experience in areas such as programming, animation, visual communication, concept design, VFX and software engineering. The programme is delivered on campus in Hamburg and is certified by the University for the Creative Arts.

IELTS: 6.0 overall TOEFL IBT: 80 (Listening 17, Reading 18, Speaking 20, Writing 17). Pearson Test of English (PTE): 56 (with min 51 in each component). Duolingo English Test: 105+.

Graduates of the MA Game Design can develop skills relevant to a range of creative, digital and technical careers within the games and multimedia industries. Potential career paths identified by BSBI include Game Designer, Games Developer, Concept Designer, Multimedia Programmer, Multimedia Specialist, Software Engineer and VFX Artist. The programme develops experience in creating game concepts, producing prototypes, analysing game mechanics and aesthetics, evaluating player experiences and completing substantial creative projects. Students also strengthen transferable skills in research, collaboration, project management, communication and professional practice. Portfolio development and the major game design project can help graduates demonstrate their creative and technical abilities to potential employers. Students can additionally access BSBI’s Careers Service for professional development, career exploration and preparation for employment opportunities within the creative and technology sectors.