Experimental Game Cultures

Master programme

Academic degree: MA (Master of Arts)
Credits: 120 ECTS
Duration: 4
Language: Englisch und Deutsch / English and German

Programme objective

The study programme of Experimental Game Cultures aims at critical reflection of the societal impact of games while at the same time applying it to the prototypical development of innovative game concepts and approaches. Therefore, the central aspect of the studies is formed by the development of innovative game concepts beyond the commercial game industry in interconnection with the critical reflection of games in their various historical, societal, and social contexts. Research areas of the study programme are, among others, the use of games as an instrument for a better understanding of social, economic, and political interrelations and for a democratic shaping of their future (serious games, critical games, educational games, etc.).
 

Target group

This interdisciplinary master's programme is geared to graduates of bachelor and diploma degree studies of all disciplines (in particular art, design, architecture, technical and social sciences, and the humanities).
 

Course contents

The study programme is project oriented and is structured around the subjects "Game Development and Reflection", "History and Theories of Games", as well as a number of free electives. In addition, a master's thesis is to be produced containing either the development of a prototype of an experimental game with theoretical reflection, or a critical-theoretical work from the field of Cultural Studies.
 

Graduates' qualification profile

Graduates of the master's programme Experimental Game Cultures have an in-depth knowledge regarding sociological, philosophical, historical, and artistic perspectives on games. On this basis, they will be able to profoundly analyze, systematize, and contextualize current developments in the field of game culture, games industry, and game-based influencing strategies directed by state and economy. Furthermore, they know the constructive potential of games for raising awareness and dealing with issues relevant to the future.

The core competence of graduates lies in the development of innovative games concepts with societal impact. This includes creating game narrative and dramaturgy, game design and prototyping/simulation. In addition, they possess a generalist's fundamental understanding of the whole game development process which also covers basic competencies in project management and digital game development. Graduates are able to operate in interdisciplinary teams and can draw on a broad spectrum of communicative and methodological skills for collaborative game development.
 

Graduates' professional fields

Professional fields are available for graduates in games research, games criticism and games journalism plus in the conceptional development of art games, serious games, educational games and gamification projects.

 
  

Information and Contact

Department

Application

Dates and information on the entrance exam and the university entrance qualification exam

Financial Issues

Information on financial issues such as tuition fees, tuition fee waivers, scholarships, discounts, etc.

Academic Calendar and Events

Angewandte Festival

At the end of each academic year the University of Applied Arts Vienna opens its doors and presents its activities. This year's Angewandte Festival takes place 26-29 June 2024.
 

Open House

In autumn it is time again: Students and lecturers give information and insights on the study programmes and studios of the University of Applied Arts Vienna.
Responsible for content: University of Applied Arts Vienna / Student Affairs, editing and design: Anita Turi