UNIVERSITY OF JYVÄSKYLÄ · FINLAND
Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€10k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 120 ECTSStudy credits
- 2 yearsFull-time duration
- EnglishLanguage of instruction
- 10,000 EURAnnual tuition fee for non-EU/EEA students
- Internship opportunitiesPractical experience
- Industry networkingProfessional connections
In a world where games are increasingly prevalent, this Master's programme equips you with the expertise to understand games and game cultures. It offers an interdisciplinary approach, blending traditional humanities with practical game development, collaborative projects, and industry connections. The programme prepares you for careers that require a deep understanding of games, research capabilities, and the ability to apply game-related knowledge to areas like public policy. Graduates are also eligible for doctoral studies.
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for research-oriented roles within the game industry and other fields where gamification or game cultures are significant. The programme's practical focus prepares students for careers in game design and player community management, while the theoretical emphasis suits research careers in game studies. Graduates gain the skills to critically assess academic knowledge, apply scientific methods ethically, and analyze games, gameplay, and game cultures. They can also leverage technical, reflective, and aesthetic skills from game design to develop innovative solutions for societal challenges. The MA degree also qualifies students for doctoral studies.
- Game Designer
- Player Community Manager
- Game Researcher
- Gamification Specialist
- Digital Culture Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies?
- Applicants need a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field. Practical experience in the games industry is also considered an advantage, and approximately 25 students are admitted annually.
- What is the tuition fee for the Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies?
- For non-EU/EEA students, the annual tuition fee is €10,000. Students from EU/EEA countries are not required to pay tuition fees.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, non-EU/EEA students can receive an 'Early Bird' discount of €1500 if they accept their study place within 14 days. Further scholarships are available for tuition fee liable students after their first year of studies.
- What is the language of instruction and duration of the programme?
- The programme is taught entirely in English and has a full-time duration of two years, accumulating 120 ECTS credits.
- When is the application period for the Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies?
- The application period for the programme is in January each year. For example, the next application period will be in January 2026.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating from the programme?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Game Designer, Player Community Manager, Game Researcher, Gamification Specialist, and Digital Culture Analyst. The MA degree also qualifies students for doctoral studies.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree or equivalentIn a relevant field. Practical experience in the games industry is considered an advantage.
The field of previous studies is not strictly defined. Practical experience in the games industry is also considered an advantage. Annual admission is typically around 25 students.
Fees
Tuition (international)Students from non-EU/EEA countries are liable to pay a tuition fee of €10,000 per year.
Tuition (home)No tuition fees for EU/EEA students.
LivingEstimated living costs not provided.
Students liable to pay tuition fees can apply for a scholarship after their first year. An 'Early Bird' discount of €1500 is available for those accepting their study place within 14 days.
How to apply
1. Check Application PeriodThe application period for the programme is in January each year. The next application period is in January 2026.
2. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the online form available on the Studyinfo.fi portal during the application period.
3. Prepare Required DocumentsEnsure you have a suitable educational background and proof of English language proficiency as per the criteria. Include all specified attachments listed on the application form.
4. Submit ApplicationFinalize and submit your application and all supporting documents before the deadline.
Scholarships
Scholarship for non-EU/EEA studentsUp to €1500 discount for early acceptance, further scholarships available after first year
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies?
+
Applicants need a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field. Practical experience in the games industry is also considered an advantage, and approximately 25 students are admitted annually.
What is the tuition fee for the Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies?
+
For non-EU/EEA students, the annual tuition fee is €10,000. Students from EU/EEA countries are not required to pay tuition fees.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, non-EU/EEA students can receive an 'Early Bird' discount of €1500 if they accept their study place within 14 days. Further scholarships are available for tuition fee liable students after their first year of studies.
What is the language of instruction and duration of the programme?
+
The programme is taught entirely in English and has a full-time duration of two years, accumulating 120 ECTS credits.
When is the application period for the Master's Degree Programme in Game Studies?
+
The application period for the programme is in January each year. For example, the next application period will be in January 2026.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from the programme?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Game Designer, Player Community Manager, Game Researcher, Gamification Specialist, and Digital Culture Analyst. The MA degree also qualifies students for doctoral studies.