Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design) (CRICOS course code 080175C) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years 8 months (~138 weeks). This AQF Level 7 qualification focuses on computer science within the information technology field, preparing graduates for careers in game design and development. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, including a 12-week work-integrated learning component. SAE Institute, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 00312F), delivers this course across six Australian campuses: Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. Indicative tuition is A$83,880, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,244, bringing the estimated total to A$85,124. This page provides detailed information about the course, entry requirements, student visa implications, and how to apply. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
This Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) falls under Field of Education 02 - Information Technology, specifically 0201 Computer Science, and is classified as Computer Science, n.e.c. (020199). Graduates typically gain a solid foundation in programming, game engines, digital art, level design, and project management specific to games development. SAE Institute Pty Ltd, a private provider registered with CRICOS (00312F), has been delivering industry-focused creative media education for decades. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). The CRICOS register confirms the course duration as 138 weeks (2 years 8 months), which includes a mandatory 12-week work component (approximately 80 total hours) to provide real-world industry experience. This work-integrated learning may take the form of an internship or industry placement, allowing students to apply their skills in a professional environment.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$83,880, as listed on the CRICOS register. Additional non-tuition fees total A$1,244, covering administrative and service charges. The estimated total cost is therefore A$85,124. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) and costs vary depending on provider and coverage. Living costs differ by city; for example, weekly rent in Adelaide averages A$150-A$250, while in Sydney it ranges from A$250-A$400. Always confirm current fees directly with SAE Institute at www.sae.edu.au, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees.
International students must meet English language proficiency requirements, typically IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0, or equivalent test scores (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Prior academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 certificate are generally expected for entry into a Bachelor Degree. Some applicants may need to complete foundation studies or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements. SAE Institute may consider relevant work experience or portfolio submissions. It is essential to check specific entry criteria with the provider, as requirements can vary. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider's website or contacting their admissions team for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, totaling approximately 80 hours. This work-integrated learning is designed to bridge academic study with industry practice. Students may undertake an internship, industry placement, or project-based work with a partner organization. The experience allows students to build professional networks, apply game design and development skills in a real-world setting, and enhance their employability upon graduation. SAE Institute typically assists students in finding suitable placements aligned with their interests. The exact hours per week are not specified on the CRICOS register but are expected to be part-time during the study period.
SAE Institute delivers the Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design) at six campuses across Australia: SAE Adelaide in Adelaide, South Australia; SAE Brisbane in West End, Queensland; SAE Byron Bay in Byron Bay, New South Wales; SAE Melbourne in South Melbourne, Victoria; SAE Perth in Northbridge, Western Australia; and SAE Sydney in Chippendale, New South Wales. Each campus offers unique advantages: Adelaide has a lower cost of living and a growing tech scene; Brisbane offers a vibrant student community; Byron Bay provides a coastal lifestyle; Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity and public transport; Perth has a strong mining and tech sector; Sydney is a global hub with extensive networking opportunities. All campuses are accessible via public transport and surrounded by student amenities. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, giving students ample choice.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in a full-time course and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Visa applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds under certain conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au).
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design) at SAE Institute: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Information Technology), and city (e.g., Adelaide, Sydney) to find SAE Institute and compare options. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit an application to SAE Institute through their website (www.sae.edu.au). Meet entry requirements including English language test scores, academic transcripts, and any portfolio or interview. Check application deadlines for your preferred intake. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, SAE Institute will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
If you are passionate about video games and want to turn creativity into a career, this degree offers a structured path. Consider factors like campus location: Adelaide has a lower cost of living (weekly rent ~A$200) and a close-knit tech community; Sydney offers more industry connections but higher living costs (rent ~A$350/week). The course duration of 2 years 8 months is shorter than some degrees, allowing faster entry into the workforce. However, the games industry is competitive – graduates often start as junior designers or developers. ESOS protections apply, ensuring your rights as an international student. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other game design courses across Australia.
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Bachelor of Games Development (Games Design) 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.