The Open University Validation
This programme is subject to validation by The Open University and may change.
What “subject to validation” means:
This programme has not yet completed The Open University’s academic approval process and approval is not guaranteed. Programme content, structure, assessments, delivery pattern and fees may change until validation is confirmed. Final approved information will be provided once validation is complete. Expected validation date May 15th2026
Applicants may withdraw their interest, application or provisional acceptance at any time without penalty.
Overview
The Foundation Degree in Games Design & Development is a two-year, full-time higher education course created for students who want to build creative and technical skills for the games and interactive media industries, or progress to honours-level study.
What will I do?
You will gain a broad understanding of modern game production, covering core areas such as game art, animation, game design and programming, while also developing academic and professional practice skills. Teaching is practical and studio-based, supported by workshops, seminars and guided independent study.
Is it for me?
This course suits motivated learners who are interested in how games are created and are ready to take responsibility for their development.
You should be comfortable working independently as well as contributing to group projects, as collaboration is a key part of the games industry. Depending on your interests, you may prefer creative disciplines such as art and animation, or more technical areas such as programming and systems design. The course supports both approaches.
This course is ideal if you:
- Enjoy practical, hands-on learning
- Can balance independent work with teamwork
- Are open to experimentation and feedback
- Want to build both technical and professional skills
- Are committed to developing a strong portfolio
You do not need to be an expert before starting. The course is structured to support growth from core foundations through to specialist practice.
What’s next?
After completing the Foundation Degree in Games Design & Development, you can progress into further study or move into entry-level roles within the games and creative industries.
Many students choose to continue onto BSc (Hons) Games Design & Development (Top Up), building on their specialist pathway and graduating with a full honours degree.
The course also prepares you for junior roles such as:
- Junior Game Artist
- Junior Animator
- Junior Designer
- Junior Programmer
- QA Tester
- Production or Studio Support
Students interested in self-employment can use their portfolio and professional skills to begin freelance work, independent game projects or small studio ventures.
Entry Requirements
You will need:
- A minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above, including English and Maths
- At least 64 UCAS tariff points from A Levels, an Extended Diploma, T Level or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject
You may be invited to attend an interview, and offers can be subject to a satisfactory reference and/or initial assessment.
Applications from mature students or those with non-standard qualifications are welcomed and will be considered on an individual basis.
Foundation Degree in Games Design & Development
Register Your Expression of Interest
More information
How will my progress be monitored?
You will be monitored in a variety of ways, and these will be explained to you by your tutor.
How will I be assessed?
You are assessed in a variety of ways designed to measure both your academic understanding and your practical skills.
Work Experience & Employers
Work experience is a key part of the course and is designed to help you apply theory to real practice.