Diploma of Game Design (CRICOS course code 109413G) is a Diploma delivered by Academy of Interactive Technology over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking to enter the game design industry in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider (02155J), Academy of Interactive Technology offers this program at its campuses in Melbourne and Sydney. The Diploma of Game Design focuses on creative arts, specifically in game design, covering principles of game development, storytelling, and interactive media. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationwide offering more than 26,000 courses, this program stands out for its practical approach and industry connections. Whether you're looking to build a portfolio or gain foundational skills, this course provides a pathway to further study or employment in the growing Australian game development sector.
Diploma of Game Design (CRICOS course code 109413G) is a Diploma delivered by Academy of Interactive Technology over 1 year. The course is classified under Field of Education 10 - Creative Arts, specifically 109999 - Creative Arts, n.e.c., reflecting its broad focus on creative and technical skills. As a Diploma (AQF Level 5), it provides a solid foundation in game design, preparing students for roles such as game designer, level designer, or narrative designer. The program is delivered in English and is a single qualification with no work component. International students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. With campuses in Melbourne (VIC) and Ultimo (NSW), students can choose their preferred study location in two of Australia's most vibrant cities for creative industries.
The Diploma of Game Design covers the core principles of game design, including game mechanics, level design, storytelling, and interactive development. Students learn to use industry-standard tools and software to create engaging game experiences. The curriculum emphasises creative problem-solving, collaboration, and project management. Graduates typically gain skills in prototyping, user experience design, and game testing. While the specific syllabus may vary, the course is designed to meet industry needs and prepare students for further study in game design or related fields. This diploma is ideal for those with a passion for games and a desire to turn ideas into playable realities. It also serves as a stepping stone to higher education qualifications in creative arts and digital media.
The Diploma of Game Design is a 1-year (52 weeks) program as registered on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards or foundation studies). This full-time course typically requires a commitment of around 20-25 hours per week including classes and independent study. As an international student, you will need to maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course is delivered face-to-face at Academy of Interactive Technology's campuses, allowing for hands-on learning and direct interaction with instructors and peers. Studying in Melbourne or Sydney provides access to Australia's leading creative industries, including game development studios and tech hubs.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Game Design at Academy of Interactive Technology is A$21,200, with non-tuition fees of A$200, bringing the estimated total to A$21,400. Please note that these fees 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), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always check the provider's website at www.ait.nsw.edu.au. Living costs vary by city: in Melbourne, indicative weekly rent is around A$250-350, while in Sydney it ranges from A$300-450. Budgeting for groceries (A$80-120/week) and transport (A$30-50/week) is essential. OSHC costs approximately A$500-700 per year for single cover.
International students applying for the Diploma of Game Design should have an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). This is a typical requirement for Diploma-level courses in Australia. Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Prior experience in creative arts or computing may be beneficial but not mandatory. Academy of Interactive Technology may have specific prerequisite subjects or portfolio requirements. If you do not meet the English language requirement, pathway options such as English language courses may be available — check with the provider. Always confirm exact entry requirements directly with Academy of Interactive Technology before applying. As a CRICOS-registered provider, they will assess your qualifications and issue a letter of offer if successful.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This provides an opportunity to gain industry experience or part-time work in related fields such as game testing, retail, or hospitality. Remember that work rights are subject to visa conditions, and you must not compromise your study commitments. Australia's vibrant game development scene in Melbourne and Sydney offers potential networking opportunities, but the diploma itself does not arrange work placements.
The Diploma of Game Design is delivered at two locations: Level 8, 12, 13, 120 Spencer St, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Melbourne campus) and Level 2, 7 Kelly Street, Ultimo NSW 2007 (Ultimo campus). Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. The Melbourne campus is near Southern Cross Station, minutes from the CBD. Ultimo is close to Sydney's Central Station, with easy access to the city. Each location offers modern facilities including computer labs, studios, and collaborative spaces. Studying in either city puts you in the heart of Australia's creative arts scene, with numerous game studios, film production houses, and tech startups. Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity and lower living costs, while Sydney offers a competitive industry landscape.
To study the Diploma of Game Design, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Academy of Interactive Technology; evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC; Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily; and English proficiency. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only — we are not registered migration agents.
Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's premier cities for creative arts education. Melbourne boasts over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering game design-related courses, with a student population exceeding 200,000. The city is a UNESCO City of Literature and a hub for film, design, and technology. Sydney, with its iconic harbour and thriving digital economy, hosts numerous game development studios and has a strong international student community. Both cities offer excellent public transport, multicultural experiences, and high living standards. When choosing between them, consider climate, cost of living, and industry connections. Melbourne is often more affordable for rent and everyday expenses, while Sydney offers proximity to major tech companies. Regardless of your choice, you'll be studying in a city that values creativity and innovation.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Game Design at Academy of Interactive Technology: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by course level, field (Creative Arts), and city (Melbourne or Sydney). Ensure Academy of Interactive Technology is CRICOS-registered (02155J). 2) Apply directly to Academy of Interactive Technology — check entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and a portfolio if required. Submit your application through the provider's website (www.ait.nsw.edu.au) or via an authorised agent. Pay the application fee if applicable. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once accepted, Academy of Interactive Technology will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. For visa support, consult a MARA-registered agent.
Enquire now or apply directly via Academy of Interactive Technology's website for the Diploma of Game Design.
Diploma of 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.