Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) (CRICOS course code 080174D) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years 8 months (~138 weeks). This course is designed for students who want to specialize in the technical side of game development, focusing on programming, software engineering, and interactive systems. As a CRICOS-registered course (080174D), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. SAE Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 00312F) is a private higher education provider with campuses across Australia, offering hands-on learning in creative media. The course falls under the field of Computer Science (020199) at AQF Level 7. Graduates will be equipped with skills in game engine programming, graphics rendering, artificial intelligence, and simulation. The indicative tuition fee is A$83,880, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,244, bringing the estimated total to A$85,124. Study is available at six locations: Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. International students must meet English language requirements and obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). At HeadStart Academy, we provide reliable, independent information sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and ESOS Act protections apply to every course. Read on for detailed information on fees, entry requirements, work components, and how to apply.
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This Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) focuses on the core principles of computer science as applied to game development. Students learn programming languages such as C++, C#, and Python, and gain proficiency in game engines like Unity and Unreal. The curriculum covers data structures, algorithms, software design patterns, and real-time systems. Project-based learning is emphasized, with students working in teams to create playable games. The course also includes units on mathematics for games, physics simulation, artificial intelligence for non-player characters, and networking for multiplayer experiences. Assessment typically involves coding assignments, game prototypes, and written reports. The field of education (020199 Computer Science, n.e.c.) ensures a broad foundation in computing while specializing in games programming. Graduates are prepared for roles such as gameplay programmer, engine programmer, tools developer, or technical artist. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the quality is assured by Australian standards. SAE Institute's practical approach means students have access to industry-standard software and hardware. Note that this is a general overview; the exact syllabus is set by SAE Institute. For detailed subject descriptions, refer to the provider's website.
The Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 2 years 8 months (138 weeks). This is the expected full-time duration for international students. The course is delivered in English in a face-to-face mode at all campuses. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students are required to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions. The intensive nature of the course (approximately 138 weeks) allows for deep immersion in games programming. SAE Institute may offer accelerated or extended options; check directly with the provider. International students should ensure they can commit to the full duration, as changing courses may affect visa conditions. All CRICOS-registered courses have clear duration information; this is a trust signal of program transparency.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$83,880, as listed on the CRICOS register. Additional non-tuition fees amount to A$1,244, making the estimated total A$85,124. These fees are set by SAE Institute Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Note that the following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$1,500 per year depending on coverage. Living expenses vary by city; for example, in Sydney or Melbourne, weekly costs (rent, food, transport) may range from A$400 to A$600. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds. Always confirm current fees with SAE Institute directly. As with all CRICOS-registered providers, SAE Institute must publish accurate fee information. HeadStart Academy sources data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) but recommends checking the provider's website for the most up-to-date figures.
International students must demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0. Equivalent tests (TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge) are accepted. Academic requirements include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. For this Bachelor level, prior study in mathematics or computing is advantageous but not always mandatory. SAE Institute may consider relevant work experience or portfolio. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry; check with the provider. All CRICOS-registered courses have published entry criteria; SAE Institute will assess each application individually. Students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the Student visa. For specific guidance, contact SAE Institute or consult a registered migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
This course includes a work component of 12 weeks, with approximately 80 total hours (hours per week not specified on CRICOS). This is a work-integrated learning opportunity, likely an industry placement or internship where students apply their games programming skills in a professional studio environment. The placement provides real-world experience, networking opportunities, and can enhance employability. SAE Institute may have partnerships with game development studios, indie studios, or tech companies. Students are responsible for securing a suitable placement with support from the provider. The work component is integrated into the curriculum and may be assessed. As part of Student visa conditions, work during term is limited to 48 hours per fortnight, but this placement may be considered part of the course. Check visa conditions carefully. For further details, contact SAE Institute.
This course is delivered at six SAE Institute campuses across Australia: - SAE Adelaide — Adelaide, South Australia (capital city, affordable living costs) - SAE Brisbane — West End, Queensland (Brisbane's vibrant arts precinct) - SAE Byron Bay — Byron Bay, NSW (coastal creative hub) - SAE Melbourne — South Melbourne, Victoria (major cultural and tech centre) - SAE Perth — Northbridge, Western Australia (city centre) - SAE Sydney — Chippendale, New South Wales (close to Sydney CBD) Each location offers the same accredited course with local industry connections. Adelaide and Brisbane offer lower living costs than Sydney or Melbourne. Byron Bay provides a unique regional experience. All campuses are accessible by public transport. When choosing a location, consider lifestyle, living costs, and local game development scene. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. SAE Institute is a well-known private provider in creative media. Check the provider website for specific campus facilities.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include: - Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from SAE Institute - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration - Evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel - English proficiency evidence Visa conditions allow work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The course duration (2 years 8 months) determines visa length. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet requirements. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current policies. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for visa advice. ESOS Act protections safeguard your rights as an international student in Australia.
Follow these three steps to enrol in this CRICOS-registered course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify SAE Institute's registration (CRICOS 00312F). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — Check entry requirements (English test, academic documents), prepare your portfolio if required, and submit your application before deadlines. SAE Institute may have intakes multiple times per year. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, SAE Institute will issue a CoE. Then apply for a visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For detailed application steps, visit the SAE Institute website.
Pursuing a Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) is a significant commitment. Consider the following: - Career prospects: The Australian game development industry is growing, with studios in major cities. Graduates may find roles in programming, design, or production. - Cost: The indicative total fee is A$85,124, plus living expenses. Compare with other providers and consider scholarship opportunities. - Location: Each campus offers different living costs and industry connections. For example, Sydney and Melbourne have larger tech scenes but higher cost of living. - Time commitment: 2 years 8 months full-time. Ensure you can maintain full-time study for visa compliance. - Skills focus: This course is programming-heavy; ensure your interest lies in coding rather than art or design. Research thoroughly and use the CRICOS register as your trust signal. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, offering ESOS Act protections.
Ready to start your journey in games development? Explore more CRICOS-registered courses in Information Technology at HeadStart Academy, or contact SAE Institute directly for application details.
Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) is a CRICOS-registered programme at SAE Institute Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.