STUDY WITH US
Doctoral Study (PhD)
Dreaming of pursuing a PhD in the realm of games and play?
We proudly offer doctoral supervision encompassing all aspects of games and game cultures, including analogue and digital games. Our research interests range from the presentation of history in games to the cutting-edge present day. Immerse yourself in a thrilling multidisciplinary journey that spans games design, urban studies, architecture, history, literature, sociology, science communication, and education, climate change, and many more.
Check out our latest research areas to find out more about the research projects and staff where your PhD project might fit….
Have specific inquiries about games? We're here to fuel your curiosity and passion! Reach out to us via email, and our dedicated team will be delighted to provide you with the answers you seek, just send us an email at gsresearchdegrees@mmu.ac.uk or give us a ring at +44 (0)161 247 362
A Game Jam and Ideation Session Organised by our Postgraduates
PhD Funding Opportunities
Manchester Metropolitan University’s Faculty of Arts and Humanities is home to the Doctoral Landscape Awards. This is a funding scheme that provides up to 3x studentships and fees each year.
Proposed projects must be arts and humanities-led, with the majority of methodologies, research questions and outputs (including the PhD) within the AHRC’s remit.
We invite applications from a range of doctoral pathways, including written theses and professional-practice doctorates.
Each award provides funding for three and a half years full-time study (or the part-time equivalent), covering tuition fees and a stipend at the standard UKRI ‘home’ student rate.
Both UK and international students can apply. International students pay higher fees than UK students and must pay the difference if they receive the award.
Find out more about UK and international postgraduate research fees.
Eligibility criteria
The awards are open to UK and international students.
Applications for either full-time or part-time study are welcome. The mode of study will not be assessed in the selection process.
You are expected to live within commuting distance from the University. We do not offer distance-learning PhDs.
You should have a first or upper second-class undergraduate degree and a distinction in your masters degree in a relevant subject. Your qualifications must be from a UK higher education institution or a recognised international university.
If you do not have the requested qualifications, you must be able to demonstrate equivalent qualifications and experience. If you have non-traditional qualifications, you should include evidence of significant changes and enhancements you have made in your field or area of work.
You cannot apply if you are a current doctoral student.
We advise any prospective students interested in applying for this funding to reach out first to a potential supervisor for their project within the Manchester Game Centre. We can then advise on eligibility, suitability, and support you in writing an application.
Undergraduate
BA(Hons) Games Art
School of Digital Arts (SODA)
This course offers a mix of technical know-how and creative thinking, with core skills and vital understanding that will equip you for your future career in the games industry.
BA(Hons) Animation
School of Digital Arts (SODA)
BA (Hons) Animation course brings together key aspects of contemporary professional animation practice to help you prepare for an exciting range of careers, from animation to concept art to games development.
Bsc(Hons) Games Design
School of Digital Arts (SODA)
With our support you’ll build up a strong portfolio of games and game-like artefacts. As you progress, you’ll have the chance to pursue the specialist areas of the discipline that interest you most
Course Modules
Department of English
Reading Games,
Reading and Writing Games,
Media Platforms
Immersive Media: Digital Technologies and Interactive Futures
Department of History, Politics, and Philosophy
Playing the Humanities
TAUGHT Postgraduate
MA Games Art
School of Digital Arts (SODA)
Games Art course aims to empower you with the knowledge and skills to create immersive art for games and the interactive experiences of the future.
MSc Digital Society
Department of History, Politics and Philosophy and Department of Sociology
Explore the role digital technologies play in our everyday lives, with specialism in digital politics or digital sociology available.
Rise
The Research and Innovation for a Sustainable Environment (RISE) initiative is committed to addressing pressing environmental challenges and promoting a sustainable future through collaborative research, knowledge exchange, and community engagement.
RISE actively engages with local and global communities. The website encourages individuals, organizations, and changemakers to join the initiative and contribute to the positive changes being made. Visitors can explore opportunities for involvement, collaboration with experts, and ways to contribute to the pursuit of a more sustainable world.
The Rise scheme was named the winner of the Guardian’s Course Design, Retention and Student Outcomes award for 2020.
DIY Games Course
A beginner’s guide to game design. Learn how to express your ideas and feelings through personal games by turning old games into new ones, using stuff you already have at home. Publish your games online so that you can play them over video-call.