Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) - (Fast Track) (CRICOS course code 102299E) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd over 2 years. This fast-track program is designed for students who want to accelerate their entry into the games industry, combining core computer science principles with specialised games programming skills. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00312F), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Whether you dream of building immersive worlds or optimising game engines, this degree provides the technical foundation and industry exposure needed. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
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Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) - (Fast Track) (CRICOS course code 102299E) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) offered by SAE Institute Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (00312F). This course falls under Information Technology (Field: 020199 Computer Science, n.e.c.) and is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks) in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks (~80 total hours) to provide practical industry experience. SAE Institute offers this program at six campuses across Australia: Adelaide, Brisbane, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. Tuition fees are indicative at A$83,880, with non-tuition fees of A$996, totalling approximately A$84,876. These fees are set by the provider and subject to change. International students are protected under the ESOS Act and must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500).
This bachelor degree focuses on the field of Computer Science, specifically games development and programming. Students typically learn advanced programming languages, game engine architecture, graphics rendering, artificial intelligence for games, and software engineering principles. The curriculum combines theoretical computer science concepts with hands-on project-based learning. Graduates are prepared for roles such as games programmer, software engineer, or technical designer in the entertainment and simulation industries. While specific syllabi vary, CRICOS-registered courses must meet national standards for higher education. HeadStart Academy advises students to contact SAE Institute directly for detailed subject outlines. The course's fast-track nature compresses content into an intensive two-year format, requiring strong time management and dedication.
The Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) - (Fast Track) is listed on the CRICOS register with a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). It is a full-time, on-campus program delivered in English. The course is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at one of SAE's six campuses. The fast-track mode means more contact hours per week compared to a standard three-year degree, allowing students to complete their studies sooner. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Always verify current duration and mode with SAE Institute, as CRICOS data reflects the approved program structure.
The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) - (Fast Track) is A$83,880 for the full program. Non-tuition fees, such as enrolment and administration charges, amount to A$996. The estimated total fee is A$84,876. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport — vary by city), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). International students should budget at least A$21,041 per year for living costs as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines. Always confirm current fees directly with SAE Institute at www.sae.edu.au before applying.
Entry to the Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) - (Fast Track) typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) with satisfactory results in mathematics or science. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, with an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0) or equivalent. Some providers may require prerequisite knowledge in programming or mathematics. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — contact SAE Institute for options. All applicants must hold a valid Student visa (Subclass 500) to study onshore. HeadStart Academy recommends checking specific requirements on SAE's website, as entry criteria are set by the institution and may change.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, totalling approximately 80 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) component is designed to provide real-world industry experience in game development studios or related IT environments. Students may undertake an internship, industry placement, or project-based work with a partner organisation. The exact placement structure is arranged by SAE Institute to align with learning outcomes. Work components are a valuable part of CRICOS-registered courses, helping students develop professional skills and industry networks. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for any paid work during placements; standard student work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks) apply.
SAE Institute delivers this course at six campuses across Australia: Adelaide (SA), Brisbane (West End, QLD), Byron Bay (NSW), Melbourne (South Melbourne, VIC), Perth (Northbridge, WA), and Sydney (Chippendale, NSW). Each campus offers access to dedicated game development labs and industry connections. Studying in Adelaide, for example, places you in a city with over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering IT courses, a relatively lower cost of living (indicative weekly rent A$200–A$350), and good public transport. Sydney and Melbourne have higher living costs (rent A$350–A$600 per week) but larger student populations and more internship opportunities. Byron Bay offers a unique coastal lifestyle with a smaller campus community. HeadStart Academy encourages students to consider location factors such as climate, part-time job opportunities, and proximity to the games industry when choosing a campus.
To study this course in Australia, you must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, evidence of sufficient funds (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), English proficiency, and enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course like this one. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent or the Home Affairs website for personalised advice. All CRICOS-registered courses offer ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee safeguards.
Applying for the Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) - (Fast Track) at SAE Institute involves three straightforward steps: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure SAE Institute (CRICOS 00312F) is still registered and offering this course. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Submit your application via SAE Institute's website. Provide academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS or equivalent), and any required portfolios. Check application deadlines for your intake. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — Once accepted, SAE will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Pay attention to health cover (OSHC) and financial evidence requirements.
Ready to start your game development career? Explore SAE Institute's fast-track bachelor degree and apply today.
Bachelor of Games Development (Games Programming) - (Fast Track) 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.