Studying Games Art

Introducing your course leader, Mike Acosta

Hi, I’m Mike Acosta and I’m the course leader for the BA (Hons) Games Art course. 

With nearly 20 years in education, I’m passionate about developing future talent and have built strong industry connections to provide students with guest lectures, industry projects, and networking opportunities. Almost a decade ago, I founded the Let’s Talk Games national student conference, creating a platform for industry experts to share insights directly with students. 

I look forward to welcoming you to one of the most highly regarded Game Art programmes globally and supporting you in your journey into the exciting world of game development!

Developer Mode | 3D Gaussian Splats

Are we in the Matrix? No, it's an image based scanning technique called 3D Gaussian Splats!

Join lecturers Anthony Martin and Davin Ward for Developer Mode, as we demonstrate how 3D Gaussian Splats work and the cool things you can do with it.

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Unlocking your creativity

As a student here, you'll benefit from working alongside a dedicated life drawing team that equips you with essential skills tailored to industry needs, including traditional anatomy, lighting, and colour.

Our recent Raptors Day offered our students an extraordinary chance to study the anatomy and movement of large birds of prey. Working closely with a professional falconer, students handled hawks, owls, and eagles, gaining first-hand experience in how these magnificent creatures behave, sound, and interact. This immersive session went beyond visual observation, giving students a deeper understanding of texture, weight, and motion, all of which are essential for translating nature into art.

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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

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Frequently asked questions

Can I join any games related societies?

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. 

Are internships available?

Yes, the course offers opportunities for internships with leading games studios, providing valuable industry experience and enhancing your employability.

What career opportunities are available after graduation?

Graduates have secured roles at top studios like Naughty Dog, Playground Games, Codemasters, Dovetail Games, and Sumo Digital. Some graduates also work as freelance artists in the games industry.

Are there any options to specialise?

Yes, in your second and third years, you can specialise in Character Art or Environment Art, tailoring the course to your career ambitions.

What software and tools will I use?

You will use industry-standard software such as Autodesk creative suite, ZBrush, Substance, Houdini, Speed Tree, and Unreal Engine. The course also provides access to facilities like HD TV studios, green screen studios, post-production suites, and motion capture studios.

How is the course assessed?

The course is assessed through a combination of practical projects, portfolio work, and written assignments, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of your skills and knowledge.

Teaching staff

Mike Acosta

Senior Lecturer

I am the Course Leader for the BA (Hons) Game Art programme at Staffordshire University. Under my leadership, the course has been ranked 1st in the UK and 7th globally. I have a strong focus on curriculum development and building industry links.

Mike's profile

David Edwards

Course Director

Dave is an experienced technical artist and academic. He teaches on many of the earlier levels of the Games Art degree, using his expertise in 3D character and environment art, 3D scripting, and level design in the Unreal Engine.

David'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. Apply for your accommodation

    We have a range of accommodation to choose from to suit all lifestyles and budgets, including en-suite and accessible rooms. Browse rooms and find out how to apply.

    Browse University accommodation
for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Facilities

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023

for Social Inclusion

The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023

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

Research Excellence Framework 2021

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

Research Excellence Framework 2021

Four Star Rating

QS Star Ratings 2021