Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design) – SAE Adelaide

Bachelor's Degree Computer Science Full Time

Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design)

at SAE University College · Adelaide, South Australia

CRICOS course code

080175C

CRICOS provider code

00312F

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$83,880 total

Per year

A$31,607/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design) at SAE University College in Adelaide prepares students to shape interactive experiences for entertainment, education or simulation. Course content covers game mechanics, player experience, level design, visual storytelling, prototyping, and the use of industry-standard tools and software. Students take units of study that blend theory with hands-on project work, where they can create and refine their own games and build a professional portfolio.

This degree is structured with a focus on project-based learning, typically delivered over 2.5 years across trimesters. Australian bachelor's qualifications are usually made up of core and elective units (subjects), and students progress by accumulating credit points. There's often a capstone project in the final stage, where students work individually or in teams to create a market-ready game or design concept, representing a significant piece of work to show future employers.

Learning in a studio environment, students develop practical skills in gameplay scripting, game engine use, user interface design, and team production processes. Collaboration is encouraged with peers from other creative disciplines. This suits those interested in both creativity and technology, who want to see their design ideas come to life and work in games, simulation, or interactive media.

Opportunities for work-integrated learning bring exposure to real industry practices. Graduates benefit from links with Australia's interactive and digital media sector, and can take advantage of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after finishing, as well as work rights for up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. Prospective students should check the official SAE page for specific information on unit selection, course policies, and English entry requirements.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Game Designer for development studios or independent projects
Level Designer in the interactive entertainment sector
User Experience (UX) Designer in digital media and software companies
Producer or Project Manager in games, simulation, or VR/AR
Interactive Media Designer for advertising and education
Simulation Designer in mining, defence, or health industries

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design) at SAE University College?

It typically takes 2.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$83,880 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Game Designer for development studios or independent projectsLevel Designer in the interactive entertainment sectorUser Experience (UX) Designer in digital media and software companiesProducer or Project Manager in games, simulation, or VR/ARInteractive Media Designer for adverti...

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