Computer Games (Art) - BA (Hons)

Southampton, Solent University

During your studies you will be taught how to develop game ready assets for computer games and real-time simulations. A key focus is on guiding you on how to successfully combine the traditional and technical skills required to produce computer games art. The work you create in each module contributes to your overall portfolio. Students benefit from free access to our dedicated high-spec computer games lab where they can make use of industry-standard software, including Unreal Engine 5, Autodesk Maya, Autodesk 3ds Max, Adobe Suite (including Adobe Substance Painter, Adobe Substance Designer and Photoshop), Marvelous Designer and Maxon ZBrush. Using these facilities, students build up a varied portfolio of creative work. From character models and level design to environment rendering and textures, this portfolio helps students to demonstrate their competencies to potential employers. At Solent, our excellent industry links play a key part in student development, and past students have had the opportunity to work on live briefs for real clients. In addition, our academic team is formed of expert professionals who have wide-ranging experience in the gaming industry. If you’re looking to study our computer games (art) degree but don’t have the relevant qualifications or experience, the digital arts foundation year will help you develop the core skills

This degree is for students who want to create computer games artwork. Applicants should have a portfolio of traditional or digital artwork, and some awareness of the game art production processes. It would be advantageous to have some experience of 3D modelling software and/or a game engine. The course is suited to applicants who are interested in the intersection of artwork with technology.

A key focus of this degree is on providing skills and opportunities to build a game art portfolio suitable for gaining employment. Students are encouraged to research and engage with current production techniques, and to consider ways in which they can futureproof their skillsets. These skills will help students build portfolios suitable for gaining entry level roles for careers as; Environment Artists, Prop Artists, Character Artists, Technical Artists and Game Animators. Many of the skills learned on the BA (Hons) Computer Games (Art) degree are also transferable to related fields, such as Arch Viz, VFX, CGI and VR/AR.