Studying Computer Games Design

Introducing your course leader, Michael Beardwood

Hi, I’m Michael Beardwood and I’m the course leader for the BSc (Hons) Computer Games Design course.

I have over a decade of teaching experience and a strong background in both technical and theoretical aspects of game development. My journey began in game studies, later expanding into Game Engines, Game Art and Technical Design.

At University of Staffordshire, I’ve previously led multiple Foundation courses and now oversee the BSc (Hons) Computer Games Design degree. My expertise includes Visual Scripting, Engine Framework Development, Games Design, and Pixel Art - all essential skills to help you bring your creative visions to life. I’m also a published author in level design, so if you’re interested, feel free to explore my book Fundamental Level Design and Analysis: A to B.

I look forward to welcoming you to University of Staffordshire and supporting you in developing the skills needed for a career in games design.

Join me for a masterclass on rapid level iteration

How are the worlds of games created? I'll demonstrate how to generate effective ideas and pipeline them all the way into Unreal Engine 5. 

Enhance your career prospects by engaging with industry professionals

We prepare our students for their career journey by organising our award-winning industry-led mock interviews for all of our final-year game students. You'll have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one interviews with leading members of the UK games industry, and receive detailed and constructive feedback on your CV, portfolio, and interview technique.

Join me and fellow games lecturers as we unpack the phenomenon of Fallout: New Vegas

In this episode of our games vodcast Level of Detail, join us for a wander through the wastelands of Fallout: New Vegas to discover why the series has found its way into the hearts of thousands of players – and more recently, onto our TV screens! 

Have you explored our virtual campus in Fortnite?

Built by our talented games students, StaffsVerse is the UK’s first university campus to be recreated as a Fortnite island.

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how we brought this innovative project to life!

Explore StaffsVerse

Frequently asked questions

Can I join any games related societies or clubs?

University of Staffordshire offers a variety of gaming societies, including League of Legends Society, Valorant Society, Call of Duty Society, Super Smash Bros Society and Overwatch 2 Society. Some of the societies host a range of events each year such as tournaments, fundraisers, gaming parties and the annual campus clash where students play against each other.

What practical experience will I gain?

You will engage in hands-on activities, including:

  • Game prototyping: Develop playable prototypes from concept to completion.
  • Collaborative projects: Work in teams to create games.
  • Industry networking: Build contacts with influential organisations in the gaming industry.

Are there opportunities for industry collaborations?

Yes, you will have opportunities to network and collaborate with companies such as:

  • Rockstar Games
  • Sony
  • Ubisoft
  • Rare
  • Creative Assembly

What kind of work placements are available?

You can undertake a placement year with top companies, gaining real-world experience in game design and production.

What career prospects can I expect after graduating?

Graduates can pursue careers in various sectors, including:

  • Game Designer
  • Gameplay Programmer
  • Level Designer
  • Technical Artist
  • Game Producer

How is the course assessed?

The course uses a variety of assessment methods, including:

  • Essays
  • Reports
  • Portfolios
  • Presentations
  • Final year project
  • Written exams

Teaching staff

Michael Beardwood

Senior Lecturer

Mike is a Technical Game Designer at heart but also delves into Pixel Art and Philosophy. His main area of interest is developing Frameworks in the Unreal Engine.

Michael's profile

Jarrad Gittos

Senior Lecturer

Jarrad is an Australian born Lecturer who loves working in 3D, Games, VFX and emergent technologies. His main area of interest currently is working with Game Engines and Electronics, Photogrammetry, Virtual Production and custom Game Controllers.

Jarrad's profile

David James

Course Director

David James is Course Director for the Games Design area at University of Staffordshire. He is an award-winning National Teaching Fellow, academic leader and games designer with over 17 years of experience in Higher Education.

David's profile

Dr Wael Elzanaty

Lecturer

Wael El Zanaty is a games design and rapid games prototyping lecturer. His main area of interest is games design, mobile games development, games production, business issues, marketing, user experience and user interface design.

Wael's profile

Your next steps

  1. Accept your offer

    An exciting new chapter awaits you here at University of Staffordshire - we can't wait to meet you. Before you can progress with finance or accommodation choices, you'll need to confirm your offer via UCAS.

    Accept your offer

  2. Apply for student finance

    It's best to arrange your student finance before starting University. You can learn more about student finance and make an application at www.gov.uk/student-finance. Our support team is here to help, get in touch if you have any questions about student finance.

    Enquire about finance

  3. Find accommodation

    Finding a home from home is an important part of the student experience. If you're looking to live close to campus, there's a range of accommodation near to our East London campus surrounded by bars and eateries, along with all the activities the capital has to offer.

    View accommodation

Your Offer Holder Events

You're now part of our offer holder community, and we've planned an exclusive programme of events to help you prepare for becoming a student. These include both virtual and on‑campus sessions.

Keep an eye on your inbox for your invitation to our offer holder events - we'd love to welcome you, answer your questions, and help you feel confident about your next steps.

Your first event will be an interactive session designed to bring your course to life, with real case studies, taster activities, and live challenges tailored to your interests. If you're taking exams this summer, you can get some great tips at our exam preparation session.

At other upcoming events, you'll be able to explore your accommodation options, and find out more about student support and opportunities to earn while you learn. We'll also keep you up to speed on all the key deadlines and next steps, so you are ready for September.

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2026

in the UK for Games Education

Rookies Games Design and Development 2023, 2025

TIGA Best Games Institution 2024, 2025

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021