About the programmes

The Master’s programmes in game development provide both theoretical and practical knowledge of the field, while also offering in-depth study in a specific area of specialisation. As a student, you will become part of the creative ecosystem Sweden Game Arena – a valuable asset that gives you a strong foundation for a future career in the international games industry.

The focus of your studies

The education focuses on the complex processes behind game development. Applied game development is combined with theoretical studies of games, game design, and game culture. Game design, playtesting, and interdisciplinary collaboration are key components of the programme. The education is clearly connected to the games industry, and collaboration with external partners, companies, and organisations is encouraged.

Two Specialisations

We offer two closely linked programmes: one specialising in Player Experience (PX) and one in Serious Games (SG). The programmes share several courses throughout the two years, but from the first year you will begin to specialise in your chosen field. This allows you to shape a personal profile based on your own interests.

Specialisation: Player Experience (PX)

Player Experience (PX) is about understanding the player’s experience. Today, games are a major interest for many, and players come from increasingly diverse groups with different preferences. For game developers, this presents both opportunities and challenges. PX helps you analyse games and players, understand what engages different target groups, and develop more inclusive and appealing games. You will learn to use tools and methods to study gaming behaviour and to create games that appeal to a wider audience.

• Game Development: Player Experience - Master's programme

Specialisation: Serious Games (SG)

Serious Games (SG) focus on games used for purposes other than pure entertainment – such as education, training, and marketing. Developing such games requires not only that the game functions well as a game, but also that it achieves a specific purpose. Here you will learn to work in dialogue with clients, identify needs and translate them into games – and to evaluate whether the game has achieved its intended goal.

• Game Development: Serious Games - Master's programme

Electives and international environment

Both programmes offer excellent opportunities to deepen and broaden your knowledge. The third semester is flexible and allows you to choose freely among courses, for example from the other programme, in game storytelling or game projects, or among freestanding courses. You can also spend a semester abroad at one of our partner universities.

Game Development is an international programme where teaching is conducted in English. Students come from all over the world and collaborate in the programme’s various courses. This provides not only insights into different cultures but also a valuable global network.

Are these programmes for me?

The programmes are suitable for those with a strong interest in games and game development, and with experience in one or more areas of game production – such as 3D modelling, sound design, interactive storytelling, programming, interaction design, or testing. You do not need to know how to program to apply. What matters most is your willingness to collaborate and develop in interdisciplinary teams. If you hold a Bachelor's degree in games, you are eligible to apply.

Which programme should I choose?

You do not need to commit to one option immediately, as much of the other programme can be taken during the third semester. If you choose to combine the programmes in this way, the only difference is that you will not have taken the specialised course of the second semester. We therefore recommend applying to both programmes to increase your chances of admission.

Career opportunities after graduation

Your specialisation provides expertise in a particular area while giving you a broad understanding of game development as a whole. This combination prepares you well for an international career in the games industry.

You may also choose to remain in Skövde and work within the growing game cluster that the University collaborates with through Science Park Skövde (external link), Sweden Game Arena (external link), and The Game Incubator.

Another option is to work in other sectors where game-based solutions are used, such as education, communication, or training.

Further studies after graduation

After graduation, you can pursue doctoral studies or other types of research-oriented education.

Research

The programme is conducted in a research-oriented environment, where many of the teachers are active researchers in game production studies, games user research, serious games, interactive digital narrative, and  game design. You will gain insight into current research and have the opportunity to connect to research projects within your area of specialisation.

Study abroad

You have the opportunity to complete parts of your studies abroad. The University of Skövde has several partner universities around the world where you can study for a semester. This gives you new perspectives, international experience, and the chance to build a global network in game development.