Games Development
Bachelor of Games Development
Learning Mode
On Campus
Duration
2 Years (accelerated full-time) / 3 Years (standard full-time)
Start date
January, May, September
Qualification
Bachelor of Games Development
Fees
UG – 29,072 AUD per year
Location
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Byron Bay,
About the Course
The Bachelor of Games Development at SAE is an intensive and highly practical degree designed for aspiring game developers, designers, and programmers. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the entire game development pipeline, from initial concept and design through to coding, testing, and deployment. You will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software and engines, mastering skills in game design principles, programming languages (e.g., C++, C#), 3D modelling, animation, audio integration, and interactive storytelling. Taught by experienced game developers, this degree fosters creativity, technical proficiency, and collaborative skills, preparing you to contribute to the thriving global games industry.
Career prospects
Graduates of the Bachelor of Games Development program are highly sought after in the rapidly expanding global games industry. The program prepares you for a wide array of specialised roles within game studios and related tech sectors. Potential job roles include: Game Designer, Level Designer, Game Programmer (Engine, Gameplay, AI), 3D Modeler, Technical Artist, Quality Assurance Tester, Narrative Designer, UI/UX Designer (Games), Tools Developer, and Indie Game Developer. Opportunities exist in independent game studios, large AAA development houses, simulation and training companies, serious games development, and interactive media, where technical skill, creativity, and problem-solving are paramount.
Why choose SAE for a Bachelor of Games Development?
Industry Connected
Learn from active game developers, create playable games, and build real industry experience and networks.
Global Opportunities
Gain globally relevant game development skills and join an international network of studios and alumni.
Professional Accreditation
TEQSA-accredited degree ensures quality education and industry-readiness for careers in the global games sector.
Course Overview
The Bachelor of Games Development at SAE offers an intensive, project-driven learning experience that immerses students in the art and science of game creation. The program provides a strong foundation in both the creative and technical aspects of games, covering everything from conceptualization and narrative design to complex programming and engine mastery. Students will gain proficiency in industry-standard tools and workflows, collaborate on multiple game projects, and develop a comprehensive understanding of game mechanics, user experience, and the business of games. The curriculum is designed to foster innovation, critical thinking, and the ability to work effectively in a team, culminating in a professional portfolio of playable games.
Course Duration
Length of the course
- 2 years (accelerated full-time, by studying three trimesters per year).
- 3 years (standard full-time).
Mode of Study for international students:
- Full-time (on-campus at various locations; online study may have limitations for international student visa holders, consult SAE directly).
Course Curriculum
The Bachelor of Games Development curriculum is structured around practical projects and core technical and creative units. Students will build a portfolio of games throughout their study.
Key Study Areas & Structure:
- Year 1: Foundational Game Development
- Game Design Fundamentals: Mechanics, Dynamics, Aesthetics (MDA), prototyping.
- Introduction to Programming for Games (e.g., C#, Unity/Unreal scripting).
- Digital Media & Creative Problem Solving.
- 3D Modelling & Asset Creation (introduction).
- Applied Game Project 1.
- Year 2: Core Game Development & specializations
- Advanced Game Programming: AI, Physics, Networked Games (e.g., C++).
- Level Design & World Building.
- Character Animation & Rigging.
- Game Audio Integration.
- User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design for Games.
- Applied Game Project 2 (often a larger team project).
- Year 3: Advanced Development & Professional Practice (for 3-year standard pathway)
- Advanced topics in chosen areas (e.g., Advanced AI, Graphics Programming, Multiplayer Networking).
- Game Production Pipeline & Project Management.
- Monetization & Business of Games.
- Professional Practice & Portfolio Development.
- Major Capstone Game Project (culminating in a polished, release-ready game).
Admission Requirements
- Academic qualifications:
- Successful completion of Australian Year 12 (SACE, VCE, HSC, QCE, WACE, etc.) or an international equivalent.
- No specific ATAR is typically required; entry is often based on demonstrated aptitude, passion, and motivation.
- For non-school leavers, relevant work experience, prior qualifications, or a portfolio of relevant creative/technical work (e.g., small game projects, coding examples, art) may be considered.
- Portfolio/Interview:
- Applicants may be required to submit a portfolio of creative/technical work or attend an interview to demonstrate their passion for games, problem-solving abilities, and potential for game development. Prior coding experience or exposure to game engines is highly beneficial.
- Age Requirement:
- Applicants must typically be 17 years of age or older at the time of course commencement.
Language Proficiency
- English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL):
- For international students, demonstrated English language proficiency is required. Acceptable tests include IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 6.0, with no individual band score less than 5.5, or equivalent scores such as PTE Academic (overall 50, with no section less than 42) or TOEFL iBT (overall 60, with minimums: R8, L8, S16, W18).
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees:
- UG – 29,072 AUD per year (indicative for 2025) for full-time study. The total indicative course fee for 3 years (standard) is approximately 87,216 AUD. Fees are typically paid per trimester based on enrolled units.
Scholarships and Bursaries:
- SAE may offer various scholarships and bursaries for both domestic and international students, often based on merit, creative potential, or specific program pathways. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the SAE website or contact admissions for detailed information on available scholarships and their application processes, as opportunities may vary and are highly competitive.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Games Development program are prepared for a diverse range of specialised roles within the global games industry and related interactive media sectors. Potential job roles include:
- Game Designer: Systems Designer, Level Designer, Narrative Designer, UI/UX Designer.
- Game Programmer: Gameplay Programmer, Engine Programmer, AI Programmer, Tools Programmer, Network Programmer.
- Technical Artist: Bridging art and programming, creating shaders, optimizing assets.
- 3D Artist/Animator: Character Modeler, Environment Artist, Animator.
- Quality Assurance (QA) Tester: Ensuring game quality and identifying bugs.
- Game Producer/Project Manager (Junior): Overseeing development pipelines.
- Indie Game Developer: Creating and launching independent games.
- Serious Games Developer: Developing games for training, education, or simulation. Industries that actively recruit SAE graduates include independent game studios, large AAA development houses, mobile game companies, educational technology firms, and companies utilizing gamification for various applications, both domestically and internationally.
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