Studying Computer Games Design with Animation

Introducing your course leader, Benjamin Rimmer

Hi, I’m Benjamin Rimmer and I’m the course leader for the BSc (Hons) Computer Games Design with Animation course.

My background is in games animation, motion capture, and cinematics, specialising in animation for game engine production. My passion for games began in my teens when I created Machinima, which inspired me to pursue a career in games animation and cinematics.

My current PhD research focuses on fear psychology, exploring tension and anxiety-driven emotions and their impact on gameplay experiences. With over seven years as a Game Master, I investigate how fear and tension influence ludo-narrative in tabletop roleplaying games.

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

Join us for our masterclass on rapid level iteration

How are the worlds of games created? Follow lecturer Mike Beardwood as he demonstrates how to generate effective ideas and pipeline them all the way into Unreal Engine 5.

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

What practical experience will I gain?

You will engage in hands-on activities, including:

  • Motion Capture Studio: Use industry-standard Vicon hardware and Cara facial performance capture headset.
  • Collaborative projects: Work with fellow students to create game products.
  • Final Year Project: Develop your own project and showcase it at GradEX, judged by industry professionals.

Are there opportunities for industry collaborations?

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

  • Flix Interactive
  • Sumo Digital
  • Cloud Imperium Games
  • Carse and Waterman

What kind of work placements are available?

You can undertake a placement year with top companies, gaining real-world experience in game design and animation. Our staff will help you identify suitable placements.

What career prospects can I expect after graduating?

Graduates can pursue a variety of roles in the gaming and animation industries, including:

  • Game Animator
  • Motion Capture Technician
  • 3D Character Animator
  • Technical Animator
  • Environment Artist

How is the course assessed?

The course uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate your skills and knowledge, including:

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

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