Psychology in Game Design and Digital Innovation MSc

What you will study

On this course, you will receive comprehensive training on the psychological theories that cover cognitive, emotional, social and ethical aspects of game design and digital technology. You will learn how to develop gaming and digital experiences that are engaging, immersive and beneficial.

You will explore topics such as motivation, emotion, attention, learning and social behaviour and learn about game design principles such as gameplay mechanics, level design and narrative structure as well as the ethical considerations involved. You will develop the theoretical and methodological expertise to conduct psychological research in various phases of game and digital innovation design.

Throughout the course, you will also have the opportunity to work on projects that apply the knowledge and skills you have learnt to real-world game development challenges. This may include designing and developing your own games, conducting user research studies or analysing player data.

Research

You’ll have the opportunity to learn from our research groups, by participating in discussions about research topics, findings and publications, and benefiting from our links with renowned research institutions across the world. We also have a host of external speakers who visit us and present their work, and a collection of seminars and workshops which allow you to network with like-minded individuals.

You'll also be studying in a department where researchers have published on the positive impact of games on people's lives, including:

• The power of puzzles and LEGO to improve spatial reasoning in children, a fundamental skill for STEM subjects
• Acquiring the skill of perfect pitch in adulthood
• Trialling the use of animated virtual reality to reduce mental health stigma.

Games and Innovation Nexus (GAIN)

The University of Surrey is part of the Games and Innovation Nexus (GAIN) project. This research partnership connects University researchers with games companies to help to tackle challenges facing the games industry. 

Facilities

Our psychology facilities will give you access to the latest equipment, including a six-room virtual reality suite to simulate real-life scenarios and two observation labs. You’ll also have access to an extensive library of psychometric and clinical tests, 20 bookable project rooms, a breakout space, equipment lockers and a computer lab.

IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with 6.5 in each component.

These are the English language qualifications and levels that we can accept.

If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.