Bachelor in Design: Videogame Design and Virtual Environments
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Bachelor in Design: Videogame Design and Virtual Environments
The Bachelor in Design: Videogame Design and Virtual Environments at IE School of Architecture and Design is an innovative program designed for video games and virtual-world trailblazers. This four-year, in-person program, located in the contrasting cities of Segovia and Madrid, provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to lead in the rapidly evolving sector of game design and development.
Students can specialize in various aspects of game design and virtual environments, including game mechanics, level design, digital storytelling and UX design. Each specialization leverages the expertise of top-tier professionals, offering a world-class education that shapes students into strategic thinkers and creative pioneers.
The program content offers a balanced blend of core game design principles and specialized knowledge, focusing on both the technical and creative aspects of the field, as well as deeply integrating cutting-edge technologies including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and immersive storytelling.
The innovative learning environment fosters the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for driving the future of video game design. International exchange opportunities enrich the educational experience, providing a global perspective. Graduates will find themselves well-prepared for influential careers and supported by a robust network of industry connections and equipped with the skills to design, develop and innovate within this most dynamic of industries.
This bachelor starts in September 2025
WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR
IS FOR STUDENTS...
passionate about video game design and virtual environments, with a strong desire to emerge as leaders in these evolving domains. Ideal candidates will catalyze transformation within gaming culture, society and technology. They blend creative ingenuity with strategic foresight, seeking expertise in game mechanics, level design, storytelling, character development, UX design and emerging technologies like VR and AR.
LOOKING FOR…
an immersive, well-rounded education that balances core game-design principles with specialized topics in video games and virtual environments. Prospective students seek a program that offers access to global networks, entrepreneurial training, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative teaching methodologies. They desire hands-on experience and exposure to cutting-edge technology and real-world projects.
TO BECOME...
- a strategic game designer
- a virtual environment expert
- a game developer
- a virtual reality developer
- a narrative designer
- a user experience (UX) designer
- an interactive media designer
- a virtual reality (VR) developer
- a digital storyteller
- a virtual environment artist
FACT SHEET
PROGRAM
Bachelor in Design
DURATION
4 years
LANGUAGE
English
CENTRES OF STUDY AND NUMBER OF PLACES
Centro de Estudios Superiores IE (Madrid) – 60 places
Escuela Técnica Superior de Estudios Integrados de Arquitectura (Segovia) – 60 places
CREDITS
Total number of credits: 240 ECTS*
Distribution of credits and subjects**:
Core subjects – 60 ECTS
Mandatory subjects – 135 ECTS
Elective subjects – 30 ECTS
Final Project – 15 ECTS
AREA OF KNOWLEDGE
Cultural Industries: Design, Animation, Cinematography and Audiovisual Production
TEACHING METHODOLOGY
Face-to-face
SPANISH MINISTRY’S REGISTRY OF UNIVERSITIES, CENTRES AND DEGREES
ASSURANCE AGENCY
ACSUCYL*** – Buscador TÃtulos Oficiales
*European Credit Transfer System
**The character of the subjects is defined by the Spanish legislation
***Quality Assurance Agency for the University System in Castilla y León
DESIGN YOUR OWN PATH TO SUCCESS
- 01.
Cutting-edge curriculum
Engage in an advanced curriculum that blends fundamental game-design principles with specialized knowledge in virtual environments. This includes courses on game mechanics, narrative design, interactive storytelling and VR/AR technologies, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the craft.
- 02.
Hands-on experience
Gain practical experience through real-world projects, internships and collaborative ventures with industry leaders. This hands-on approach ensures you are well-prepared for the dynamic and fast-changing landscape of game design and virtual environments. Craftsmanship is emphasized, enabling you to create polished, high-quality and engaging games and virtual experiences.
- 03.
Interdisciplinary collaboration
Work alongside experts from various fields, including computer science, art, psychology and business. This interdisciplinary collaboration fosters innovation and equips you with a diverse skill set to tackle complex challenges—both inside and outside of the games themselves—in game development and VR. Projects often include a focus on sustainability, encouraging the creation of environmentally and socially responsible gaming experiences.
- 04.
Access to global networks
Tap into a global network of alumni, industry professionals and academic partnerships. This extensive network opens doors to invaluable mentorships, collaborations and career opportunities. Take advantage of incubator programs, startup competitions and business development resources, ensuring you're equipped to launch successful ventures and make a lasting impact in the industry.
- 05.
Leadership and strategic thinking
Develop leadership and strategic thinking skills to become a visionary in the field. Learn to lead teams, manage large-scale projects and drive innovation in game design and virtual environments. An emphasis on entrepreneurship prepares you to launch your own ventures, take charge of your own career trajectory and pioneer future trends in the industry.
Bachelor in Design: Videogame Design and Virtual Environments pillars
COMPREHENSIVE CURRICULUM WITH CHOICE OF SPECIALIZATION
The Bachelor in Design: Videogame Design and Virtual Environments offers a broad foundation in core design principles and specialized gaming topics. The first two years are unified across related programs in the design discipline, with certificates awarded in the first year. Students can switch programs after the first year, but must complete the certification requirements of their new program if they do so. Specialization in video game design focuses on game development, level design, VR experiences, UX design, interactive media and digital storytelling.
SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIAL IMPACT
The program’s strong emphasis on sustainable practices and socially impactful design teaches students to use gaming platforms sustainably. This focus aligns with the growing global demand for responsible design solutions in both physical and digital worlds, preparing students to create groundbreaking designs that benefit both people and the planet.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The curriculum integrates strong business acumen, ensuring that students not only become skilled designers but also strategic thinkers. Through modules like The Business of Game Design, students will learn to approach their design with an entrepreneurial mindset, understanding market trends, client needs, business models and strategic project management. You’ll be as well prepared for success, whether entrepreneurial or in established organizations, as you are to produce outstanding games.
FUTURE-FOCUSED DESIGN
The program is forward-thinking, preparing students to be industry leaders. Students will engage with cutting-edge topics and technologies, ensuring they are well-equipped to lead and innovate. Graduates emerge not only up-to-date with the current state of the industry but also as pioneers in this fast-growing field.
Student Stories
At IE University, more than 75% of our student body comes from outside Spain, representing an average of 130 nationalities on campus each year. We take great pride in these numbers—and in the individuals behind them.
Our students are natural go-getters with a global outlook and a dream of a better future. Regardless of their degrees or passions, they strive every day to unleash their innovative potential and reach their goals. Driving this shared vision are people from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. They are both united and entirely unique. These are our students. Discover their stories.
Faculty Stories
Our 500-strong faculty guides students to unleash their potential day in, day out. Their influence across all five Schools can’t be overstated, inspiring young, energetic minds as they define their personal and professional trajectories.
But what kind of person does it take to create such impact? The individuals that make up the IE University faculty are special. Coming from diverse, global backgrounds, they each bring distinct perspectives and innovative ideas that embody what makes IE University stand out. Their stories are personal and unique—but don’t take our word for it. Read their stories to see for yourself.
UNSURE IF THIS IS THE RIGHT PROGRAM TO HELP YOU ON YOUR PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY?
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What degree do most game designers have?
Most game designers have a bachelor's degree in game design, computer science, or a related field. Degrees in video game design and game development degrees are common among professionals in the industry.
What degree is best for video game design?
A degree specifically focused on video game design or a bachelor of science in game design and development is considered the best for aspiring game designers.
What qualifications do I need to be a game designer?
To be a game designer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in game design or a related field, a strong portfolio showcasing your work, and relevant skills in areas like storytelling, game mechanics, and basic programming.