MSc Accounting and Finance (OGAF) by Research
Abertay University's MSc Accounting and Finance (OGAF) by Research is designed to p...
PhD Applied Games
Dundee
INTAKE: Feb, June & Oct
Program Overview
Abertay University's PhD in Applied Games is a groundbreaking program at the forefront of the intersection between gaming, technology, and practical applications. Aimed at individuals passionate about leveraging game design for real-world impact, this program offers a unique blend of theoretical understanding and hands-on experience in the realm of applied games.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the PhD in Applied Games is carefully crafted to provide a comprehensive exploration of game design principles, interactive technology, and their practical applications. Core courses cover topics such as serious games, gamification, interactive storytelling, and game development methodologies. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to tailor their coursework to align with their research interests and career goals.
Research Focus: The research focus of the program centers on advancing the field of applied games, exploring their potential in areas beyond entertainment. Students engage in cutting-edge research on topics such as educational games, health and wellness applications, simulations, and the use of games for social impact. The program emphasizes the development of innovative game solutions that address real-world challenges.
Industry Engagement: Abertay University places a strong emphasis on industry engagement within the Applied Games program. Students have opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, participate in game development projects, and undertake internships with organizations specializing in applied games. This industry engagement ensures that graduates are not only well-versed in theoretical concepts but also possess practical insights into the application of games in various sectors.
Global Perspective: The program embraces a global perspective on applied games, recognizing the universal potential of games to address diverse challenges. Faculty members bring international experiences to the program, and students are encouraged to explore global case studies, engage in international game development projects, and collaborate with peers from different cultural backgrounds. This global outlook prepares graduates to contribute to the international landscape of applied games.
Location
Dundee
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 14750
PhD Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 65% as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 or 7.0 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.0.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 92 on the TOEFL is accepted, with no sub-score in any section falling below 20.
- PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.
Students must provide:
- Academic marksheets & transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement - SOP
- Passport
- Other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Abertay University offers several types of scholarships for international Ph.D. students, each with its own criteria and benefits.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Awards based on academic excellence, research potential, and achievements. Merit-based scholarships aim to attract high-achieving students to contribute to the university's research community.
Research-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are dedicated to students undertaking research in specific fields. These may align with the university's strategic research priorities or emerging academic disciplines.
Partnership Scholarships: Collaborative initiatives between Abertay University and external partners may result in specific scholarships. These aim to strengthen ties with organizations, industries, or governments.
Graduates of Abertay University's PhD in Applied Games program possess a unique skill set that opens doors to diverse and impactful career opportunities, leveraging game design for practical applications beyond entertainment.
Educational Game Development: PhD holders may choose to specialize in educational game development, creating immersive and engaging learning experiences. They can work for educational institutions, educational technology companies, or as independent developers, contributing to innovative approaches to teaching and learning.
Healthcare and Medical Simulation: Graduates can pursue careers in healthcare, developing games for medical training, therapy, and patient education. They may work with healthcare institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or health tech startups, contributing to the use of applied games in improving healthcare outcomes.
Corporate Training and Simulations: PhD Applied Games graduates are well-suited for roles in corporate training and simulations. They can design and implement gamified training programs for businesses, focusing on employee skill development, team building, and enhancing organizational performance.
Government and Defense Applications: Some graduates may explore opportunities in government and defense sectors, developing simulations and training tools for military, emergency services, and public safety agencies. Applied games can be utilized for strategic planning, crisis management, and skill enhancement in these critical sectors.
Humanitarian and Social Impact Games: Graduates may choose to work on games with a social impact, addressing humanitarian and societal challenges. They can collaborate with non-profit organizations, NGOs, and advocacy groups to create games that raise awareness, promote social change, and contribute to community well-being.
Game User Research and Testing: PhD holders can specialize in game user research and testing, ensuring that applied games meet the needs and preferences of their target audiences. They may work with game development studios, usability research firms, or as consultants to enhance the user experience of applied games.
Independent Game Development: Entrepreneurial graduates may opt for independent game development, establishing their own studios or startups. This path allows for creative freedom, enabling graduates to develop and publish applied games that align with their vision and values.
Research and Academia: Many graduates choose to pursue research and academic careers, becoming professors, researchers, or lecturers in universities and research institutions. They contribute to the academic community by advancing the knowledge and understanding of applied games.
Game Design and Creative Direction: PhD holders can excel in traditional game design roles, leading creative direction and design processes. They may work with game development studios, entertainment companies, or digital agencies, contributing their expertise to the creation of engaging and impactful games.
Consultancy and Advisory Roles: With their specialized knowledge, graduates may offer consultancy services to organizations seeking to implement applied games. They can advise on strategy, design principles, and integration of games into various industries, ensuring optimal outcomes and impact.
Continuous Learning and Thought Leadership: Remaining committed to continuous learning, graduates can contribute to thought leadership in the applied games field. They may write publications, speak at conferences, and engage in industry events, establishing themselves as experts and influencers in the dynamic world of applied games.
