Computer Games

Computer games art is the visual and creative discipline that makes digital games visually compelling and immersive. Every character, environment, prop, effect, and user interface element in a game is designed and created by games artists, working at the intersection of visual art, technical skill, and an understanding of how players experience interactive worlds. The discipline encompasses 2D and 3D art, character design, environment creation, texturing, lighting, and increasingly the use of real-time rendering engines and procedural tools that are reshaping how games are made.

At Southampton Solent University this three-year full-time programme includes a foundation year, giving you a solid entry point into the discipline before the main degree begins. The course focuses on core game art skills, professionalism, and portfolio building, which are the three elements that matter most when entering a highly competitive industry. You will develop expertise in modelling, texturing, rigging, and the technical art processes that support game production, alongside the creative development and design thinking that distinguish strong game artists from merely technically proficient ones.

You will build a professional portfolio throughout the degree, which is the primary currency in the games art job market.

Graduates from computer games art programmes work in games studios across development, art, and technical art roles. Character artists, environment artists, technical artists, 3D modellers, and concept artists are among the most common specialisations. The industry is global and the range of studios, from indie teams to major publishers, is wide.

Some graduates work in adjacent industries where real-time 3D art skills are valuable, including virtual reality, architectural visualisation, film and television visual effects, and simulation. Postgraduate study in games art or design is an option for those who want to develop further expertise or move into research and teaching.