Program structure

The Master of Science in Digital Games at the University of Malta is structured to provide a comprehensive education in game design, development, and analysis. The program offers two specialization streams:

1. Game Technology and Design
2. Game Analysis and Design

Program Duration and Credits:

• Full-Time: 4 semesters (2 years)
• Total Credits: 120 ECTS

Year 1:

• Compulsory Units:
  • Stream A (Game Technology and Design):
    • Game Design (10 ECTS)
    • Game Artificial Intelligence (5 ECTS)
    • Game Development (10 ECTS)
  • Stream B (Game Analysis and Design):
    • Methods for Games Research (5 ECTS)
    • Formal Properties of Games (10 ECTS)
    • Analysing Player Experience (10 ECTS)
• Elective Units:
  • Students choose 5 ECTS credits from elective study-units such as:
    • Game Programming Fundamentals (5 ECTS)
    • Games and Narrative (5 ECTS)
    • Experimental Game Design (5 ECTS)
    • Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence and Games (5 ECTS)

Year 2:

• Compulsory Units:
  • Stream A:
    • Methods for Games Research (5 ECTS)
    • Foundations of Game Studies (5 ECTS)
    • Advanced Artificial Intelligence and Games (10 ECTS)
  • Stream B:
    • Game Design (10 ECTS)
    • Designing Gameworlds (5 ECTS)
    • Game Development (10 ECTS)
• Elective Units:
  • Students choose 5 ECTS credits from elective study-units not previously taken.

Year 3:

• Dissertation:
  • All students undertake a research project culminating in a dissertation (30 ECTS).

This structure ensures a balanced education, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, tailored to the chosen specialization stream.

Fees and Funding

The Master of Science in Digital Games at the University of Malta has specific tuition fees and funding opportunities for international students:

Tuition Fees:

• Non-EU Applicants: The total tuition fee is €13,400 per academic year.

Funding Opportunities:

• Scholarships: The University of Malta offers various scholarships for international students. These include merit-based awards and country-specific scholarships. Prospective students are encouraged to explore these options to support their studies.

• Research Funding: Students engaged in research projects may have access to additional funding opportunities through departmental grants or external research bodies. It's advisable to consult with the Institute of Digital Games for information on available research funding.

For the most current information on fees and funding, please refer to the University of Malta's official resources or contact the admissions office directly.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Malta offers several scholarship opportunities for international students pursuing the Master of Science in Digital Games. These scholarships aim to support students in their academic endeavors and alleviate financial burdens.

1. University of Malta Scholarships: The university provides scholarships that may include full or partial tuition fee waivers for Master's by research and Ph.D. programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and the availability of funds. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early and provide all necessary documentation to be considered.

2. Malta Arts Scholarships: Funded by the Government of Malta, the Malta Arts Scholarships aim to support individuals exceptionally talented in the expressive arts, including theatre studies. These scholarships are available for various academic levels, including undergraduate diplomas, first degrees, joint degrees, and postgraduate qualifications. The scholarship can cover tuition fees up to €20,000, depending on the applicant's qualifications.

3. Postgraduate ISSI Scholarships: Offered through the Islands and Small States Institute, these scholarships are available for students pursuing postgraduate studies related to islands and small states. While not specific to theatre studies, students whose research aligns with the institute's focus areas may be eligible. The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a research allowance.

Application Process:

• Eligibility: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, often based on academic merit, research proposals, and, in some cases, nationality.
• Deadlines: Application deadlines vary; it's essential to check the specific dates for each scholarship.
• Documentation: Applicants typically need to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a detailed curriculum vitae, and a statement of purpose or research proposal.

Prospective students are advised to consult the University of Malta's official scholarships page and the respective scholarship links provided above for detailed information on eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines. Additionally, contacting the university's admissions office or the specific department can provide personalized guidance and support throughout the application process.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Master of Science in Digital Games at the University of Malta, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • Possess a Bachelor's degree with at least Second Class Honours in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Game Design, Media Studies, or a related discipline.
   • Alternatively, hold a degree with an average mark of not less than 65% in the relevant area of study.
   • Degrees from other universities may be considered if deemed comparable by the Board.

2. Professional Experience:

   • Applicants with professional qualifications and/or experience in digital games or related areas may be considered. Such candidates might be required to complete a preparatory program to ensure they possess the necessary foundation for the course.

3. English Language Proficiency:

   • Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English language proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores include:
     • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no less than 6.0 in any component.
     • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90, with a minimum of 20 in each section.
     • Other equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

4. Portfolio (if applicable):

   • Applicants with a background in game design or related creative fields are encouraged to submit a portfolio showcasing their work. This may include game projects, design documents, or other relevant materials.

Prospective students are advised to review the detailed admission requirements and consult the course bye-laws for comprehensive information.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Master of Science in Digital Games at the University of Malta, please follow these steps:

1. Review Admission Requirements:

   • Ensure you meet the academic qualifications, which include a Bachelor's degree with at least Second Class Honours in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Game Design, Media Studies, or a related discipline.

2. Prepare Application Materials:

   • Portfolio: Submit a portfolio of recent works to demonstrate your experience and/or substantial talent and motivation.
   • Letter of Motivation: Provide a letter outlining your motivations for pursuing this program and how it aligns with your career goals.

3. Submit Online Application:

   • Complete the online application form available on the University of Malta's application portal.

4. Pay Application Fee:

   • An application fee is required; details are provided during the online application process.

5. Await Admission Decision:

   • The admissions office will review your application and notify you of the outcome.

For detailed information on the application process, please visit the official course page.