Associate Degree in Game Design (CRICOS course code 109412H) is a Associate Degree delivered by Academy of Interactive Technology over 2 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. As an international student, studying a CRICOS-registered course like this one gives you access to the legal protections of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. Australia is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across all study levels. The Associate Degree in Game Design sits within the Creative Arts field (broad field 10) and prepares students for a career in the dynamic games industry. Whether you are looking to become a game designer, artist, or programmer, this qualification provides a solid foundation. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you navigate your study options using official CRICOS data.
The Associate Degree in Game Design (CRICOS 109412H) is a two-year (104-week) program offered by Academy of Interactive Technology (CRICOS 02155J), a private higher education provider. This course is classified under AQF Level 6 and falls within the field of education code 109999 - Creative Arts, n.e.c.. Upon completion, graduates receive an Associate Degree qualification that can lead to further study or employment in the game design industry. The course is delivered entirely in English, and there is no work component included. All CRICOS-registered courses must meet strict quality assurance requirements, ensuring that international students receive a high standard of education. Data for this page is sourced directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free, independent resource with no referral fees.
This associate degree provides a broad education in creative arts with a focus on game design. Students typically develop skills in areas such as game mechanics, level design, narrative design, 2D and 3D art fundamentals, and introductory programming. The curriculum is designed to build both creative and technical abilities, preparing graduates for roles such as junior game designer, level designer, or game artist. While specific subject offerings may vary, the overall aim is to equip students with the knowledge to conceptualise, prototype, and refine game experiences. The course also covers industry-standard tools and software, giving students practical experience that aligns with current industry practices. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider must ensure the course content is appropriate and delivered by qualified staff.
The Associate Degree in Game Design runs for 2 years (104 weeks) as indicated on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course — it does not come as part of a dual qualification or include a foundation studies program. Study mode is typically full-time, on-campus at the provider's delivery locations. International students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions. Academy of Interactive Technology is a private provider offering this course in two Australian cities: Melbourne (VIC) and Ultimo (NSW). Having multiple campus options gives students flexibility in choosing their study location.
The indicative fees for the Associate Degree in Game Design are as follows: tuition fee A$42,400 and non-tuition fees A$200, making an estimated total of A$42,600. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in this figure. International students must budget for these additional expenses. For example, living costs in Melbourne or Sydney range from A$400 to A$600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Course fees are set by the institution and may change — always confirm current fees directly with Academy of Interactive Technology at www.ait.nsw.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides indicative fee data sourced from the CRICOS register as a guide only.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For this Associate Degree, applicants are typically expected to demonstrate proficiency in English, often through an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications should include completion of Australian Year 12 (or overseas equivalent) or a recognised foundation program. Some providers may also require a portfolio or demonstrate relevant skills. Academy of Interactive Technology may have specific entry criteria — refer to their website for detailed requirements. This course does not include a foundation studies component, but pathway options may be available through the provider or partner institutions. Always check entry requirements directly with the institution before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Work placements, internships, or industry experience are not a required part of the curriculum. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) have work rights: they can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Any work undertaken is separate from the course. For students seeking hands-on industry experience, it is important to check with the provider about any optional opportunities or extracurricular industry projects.
The Associate Degree in Game Design is delivered at two locations: Level 8, 12, 13, 120 Spencer St Melbourne, VIC, and Level 2, 7 Kelly Street, Ultimo, NSW. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population of over 250,000 international students from around the world. The Spencer Street campus is centrally located near Southern Cross Station, providing excellent public transport links including trains, trams, and buses. Ultimo is a suburb of Sydney, Australia's largest city, home to over 200,000 international students. The Ultimo campus is close to Central Station and walking distance from Chinatown and Darling Harbour. Both cities offer diverse cultural experiences, a wide range of accommodation options, and student-friendly amenities. Living costs in both cities are relatively high — expect weekly rent of A$200-A$450 for shared accommodation — but the quality of life and education are world-class.
International students must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. The visa application requires you to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent, provide evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meet health and character requirements. As a student visa holder, you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed guidance on visa applications. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For personalised assistance, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. Remember, only CRICOS-registered courses enable you to apply for a Student visa.
Applying for the Associate Degree in Game Design at Academy of Interactive Technology involves three simple steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by field, level, and location. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered and the course is current. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your documents — academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and any required portfolios. Submit your application through Academy of Interactive Technology's admissions portal or via a registered education agent. Pay attention to application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. With this CoE, you can submit your visa application (Subclass 500). Ensure you meet all visa requirements including OSHC and financial capacity.
Ready to start your game design career? Follow the 3-step application process above.
Associate Degree in Game Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Academy of Interactive Technology. 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.