Surge in Video Game Studies Highlights Growth of UK's Gaming Sector Over Last Decade

The Remarkable Rise in Video Game Education

In recent years, the landscape of video game education in the UK has transformed dramatically. Recent analysis by TIGA has unveiled that undergraduate enrollments in programs focused on video games have increased by an astonishing 279% from the academic year 2013/14 to 2023/24. This growth signals a new era for an industry that has become a significant player in the UK economy.

In the academic year 2023/24, there were 15,450 students enrolled in higher education programs across various institutions, specifically targeting the subjects of 'Computer games and animation.' In stark contrast, there were just 4,065 enrollments in the 2013/14 year. These figures highlight a significant shift in public interest and institutional support for video game studies, demonstrating a growing recognition of the field's importance.

The data was revealed following a parliamentary query addressed by Josh MacAlister OBE MP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Children and Families, to Max Wilkinson MP. This inquiry not only sheds light on enrollment figures but also points to government backing for programs related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), including computer game design courses. This move is widely seen as a commitment to bolster the UK’s research base and innovation capacity, crucial for the country’s industrial strategy.

To further support this growth, in the upcoming 2025/26 academic year, higher education providers are set to receive a substantial allocation from the £1.3 billion Strategic Priorities Grant, earmarked specifically for high-cost subjects. For each full-time equivalent computer games design student, £289.50 in funding will be made available. This financial backing not only fosters expansion in education but also helps create a skilled workforce that is essential for the future of the video games sector.

The impact of the UK video games industry is profound; it generates around £12 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) annually, supports over 73,000 jobs, including 28,000 developers, and contributes £2.2 billion in tax revenue. There is a pressing need for a pipeline of talent equipped with relevant educational backgrounds to sustain this industry's proliferation.

To address this, TIGA's University Accreditation System plays a pivotal role. This initiative is designed to encourage best practices in education while identifying institutions that arm students with the necessary skills for entering the workforce. Dr. Richard Wilson OBE, TIGA’s Chief Executive, emphasized that a substantial portion of new hires in video game studios comes from experienced industry practitioners, while a smaller percentage consists of recent graduates and apprenticeship candidates. The growth in video game courses highlights the necessity for education providers to collaborate closely with industry leaders to ensure that students receive the relevant skills needed to thrive in evolving job markets.

The rise of gaming courses also functions as an educational pathway for students from various backgrounds, including those with vocational qualifications such as BTECs, enabling them to pursue higher education opportunities. Graduates are then well-positioned to apply their expertise across diverse sectors engaged in interactive technology.

TIGA's commitment to promoting excellence in games education is showcased through its TIGA Education Awards, which honor outstanding contributions in this field.

For more information about TIGA's initiatives and accreditation system, you can visit their website. The upward trends in video game studies are a promising indicator of not only the industry's growth but of a broader societal acceptance and integration of gaming in educational frameworks.

By continuing to align educational programs with industry demands, the UK can ensure that its gaming sector remains at the forefront of innovation and development in the global market. This emphasis on collaboration between education and industry is key to cultivating future leaders in the dynamic world of video gaming.