Ready to shape the future of the tabletop gaming industry for the next generation? Your Hero’s Journey starts here.
Ready to shape the future of the tabletop gaming industry for the next generation? Your Hero’s Journey starts here.
No side quests. No cutscenes. Just the skills and experience you need to kickstart your career in game design and development.
No side quests. No cutscenes. Just the skills and experience you need to kickstart your career in game design and development.
2
60
On Campus
February 2025
Collingwood
Enter the world of gaming
The idea of being paid to design and play games may sound too good to be true, but Collarts gives you the career-ready skills and industry knowledge to make this a reality.
Our comprehensive curriculum explores the core concepts of game design, emphasising the interplay between players, story, and rules. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on projects, you'll develop the techniques needed to bring your gaming ideas to life.
Inclusivity plays a vital role in game design at Collarts. You’ll be encouraged to cast an inclusive and accessible eye over your studies, developing your understanding of community ethics, diversity, inclusive design, and the politics of games, so that you enter the industry knowing how to make it a safer space for future generations.
Our Game Design courses are unique within Australia and are a rare breed worldwide, why? Because we teach you how to make great games, regardless of the type of games you make; digital, card, ttrpg, larp, puzzle, board, interactive narrative - we’ve got you covered. While other game design courses teach you skills and knowledge within a small band of production (focused on the oversubscribed and turbulent digital games industry) our course teaches you not only what good game design actually is - but how to take your ideas from prototype all the way through to publication - all as part of our curriculum.
As a Game Design student, you’ll gain skills across different facets of game design and development, from user experience to interactive narrative design, environment modelling, and marketing strategies. With mentorship from lecturers who are currently working in the industry, you'll also get valuable insight into the nuances and challenges of game design and production.
As part of our curriculum, you’ll be taking part in industry events from your first trimester; meeting, testing and presenting your games to veterans and leaders in the Australian gaming industry. You’ll also have opportunities to present your games to the public at events such as The Games Expo (TGX), PAXAUS and more.
So if you’re passionate about Game Design, beyond game production, and want to make a career of making your games, then join the community that can give you the skills, knowledge and contacts you need to succeed.
The Bachelor degree can be completed in six trimesters (2 years) of full-time study or part-time equivalent.
First Year | Trimester 1 | Trimester 2 | Trimester 3 |
Contexts | SHGS Introduction to Game Studies |
GDSC2 Game Cultures & Communities |
GDSC3 Serious Games |
Principles |
GDSP1
Foundational Game Elements |
GDSP2
Interactive Narrative Design |
GDSP3
Writing for Games 1 |
Practice |
GDSPR1
UX: Design for Play |
GDSPR2
Interface Design |
GDSPR3
Environment Design |
Creative Foundations |
CRFCRFS
Creative Foundations |
CRFIFOS
Industry Foundations |
GADDGD3
Digital Game Development |
Second Year | Trimester 1 | Trimester 2 | Trimester 3 |
Contexts | SHCDC Contemporary Art, Design & Cultural History |
SHDLER Design Law, Ethics & Regulations |
GDSC6 Creative Entrepreneurship |
Principles | GDSP4 Writing for Games 2 |
GDSP5 Game Marketing: Business & Audience |
GDSP6 Game Design Capstone Project |
Practice |
GDSPR4
Character Design |
GDSPR5
Game Design: Capstone Development |
|
Creative Foundations | GADIER4 Introduction to Extended Reality |
Elective |
COMIPL Industry Placement OR COMPPFF Professional Portfolio |
UNIT
$2,926.00
TRIMESTER
$11,704.00
(full-time study)
BACHELOR
$70,224.00
(six trimesters full-time study)
Learn about the FEE-Help program
Unlocking the gateway to higher education at Collarts is easier thanks to the Australian Government's FEE-HELP program.
Wondering about eligibility and the smaller details? The FEE-HELP Information Booklet or Australian Government Study Assist website have all the details you'll need.
Enrolling at Collarts is your first step towards a creative career you’ll love. Once deemed eligible, the ATO will email you an eCaf form. Then, with your TFN or TFN application receipt, you're ready to start your FEE-HELP application. Just be sure to submit it before the census date.
Note: You only incur debt for the subjects you're enrolled in post-census date.
How to apply
There are no cookie-cutter moulds to fit into at Collarts. We're all about celebrating diversity, individuality, and the kaleidoscope of creativity that makes each applicant unique.
We’re looking for individuals who are passionate, driven, and capable of sharing a unique voice. Sounds like you? Apply Today with us.
Year 12's:
Non-Year 12's:
Completion of at least half of the first year of study (0.5 EFTSL) of a higher education diploma, associate degree, bachelor degree or higher, or International equivalent OR
VET Certificate qualification, or an International equivalent OR Work and Life Experience.
Click here for international admission and eligibility requirements.
Click here for intake dates.
Click here for the indicative enrolment number.
You may contact a Future Student Advisor for any questions at 1300 818 777 or admissions@collarts.edu.au
Opportunities and experiences.
A well-rounded course rooted in creativity, collaboration and inclusivity
The Bachelor of Game Design is perfect for students who want to understand the tools, cultural contexts, and design pillars to become creative game design professionals.
Throughout the degree, you will:
Enter the world of game design from a creative angle, learning about narrative, character, story and more.
Learn about diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry to help build an accessible future.
Develop a professional career-ready portfolio of game design work.
Get mentored by industry experts and collaborate with students from other creative courses.
Study in our world-class creative spaces and classrooms.
Get real-life experience through 60 hours of industry placement.
3
60
On Campus
February 2025
Collingwood
Enter the world of gaming
The idea of being paid to design and play games may sound too good to be true, but Collarts gives you the career-ready skills and industry knowledge to make this a reality.
Our comprehensive curriculum explores the core concepts of game design, emphasising the interplay between players, story, and rules. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on projects, you'll develop the techniques needed to bring your gaming ideas to life.
Inclusivity plays a vital role in game design at Collarts. You’ll be encouraged to cast an inclusive and accessible eye over your studies, developing your understanding of community ethics, diversity, inclusive design, and the politics of games, so that you enter the industry knowing how to make it a safer space for future generations.
Our Game Design courses are unique within Australia and are a rare breed worldwide, why? Because we teach you how to make great games, regardless of the type of games you make; digital, card, ttrpg, larp, puzzle, board, interactive narrative - we’ve got you covered. While other game design courses teach you skills and knowledge within a small band of production (focused on the oversubscribed and turbulent digital games industry) our course teaches you not only what good game design actually is - but how to take your ideas from prototype all the way through to publication - all as part of our curriculum.
As a Game Design student, you’ll gain skills across different facets of game design and development, from user experience to interactive narrative design, environment modelling, and marketing strategies. With mentorship from lecturers who are currently working in the industry, you'll also get valuable insight into the nuances and challenges of game design and production.
As part of our curriculum, you’ll be taking part in industry events from your first trimester; meeting, testing and presenting your games to veterans and leaders in the Australian gaming industry. You’ll also have opportunities to present your games to the public at events such as The Games Expo (TGX), PAXAUS and more.
So if you’re passionate about Game Design, beyond game production, and want to make a career of making your games, then join the community that can give you the skills, knowledge and contacts you need to succeed.
The Bachelor degree can be completed in 3 years of full-time study or 2 years accelerated delivery.
First Year | Trimester 1 | Trimester 2 | Trimester 3 |
Contexts | SHGS Introduction to Game Studies |
GDSC2 Game Cultures & Communities |
|
Principles |
GDSP1
Foundational Game Elements |
GDSP2
Interactive Narrative Design |
|
Practice |
GDSPR1
UX: Design for Play |
GDSPR2
Interface Design |
|
Creative Foundations |
CRFCRFS
Creative Foundations |
CRFIFOS
Industry Foundations |
Second Year | Trimester 1 | Trimester 2 | Trimester 3 |
Contexts | GDSC3 Serious Games |
SHCDC Contemporary Art, Design & Cultural History |
|
Principles | GDSP3 Writing for Games 1 |
GDSP4 Writing for Games 2 |
|
Practice |
GDSPR3
Environment Design |
GDSPR4
Character Design |
|
Creative Foundations | GADDGD3 Digital Game Development |
GADIER4
Introduction to Extended Reality |
Third Year | Trimester 1 | Trimester 2 | Trimester 3 |
Contexts | SHDLER Design Law, Ethics & Regulations |
GDSC6 Creative Entrepreneurship |
|
Principles | GDSP5 Game Marketing: Business & Audience |
GDSP6 Game Design Capstone Project |
|
Practice |
GDSPR5
Game Design: Capstone Development |
||
Creative Foundations | Elective |
COMIPL Industry Placement OR COMPPFF Professional Portfolio |
UNIT
$3,478.00
On Campus
Scholarships
Scholarships are now available for international students and valid for all international study applications from March 2024. Kickstart your creative studies while we ease the financial load – eligible students can receive up to $11,000 AUD for a Bachelor or up to $3,600AUD for a Diploma.
Eligibility criteria:
Applicants must submit a 300-word statement along with their application explaining why they should be awarded the scholarship.
Approved applicants must comply with their visa conditions and obligations as Collarts students.
Applicants must meet Collarts entry requirements.
Scholarships are limited and awarded at the discretion of the Collarts International Team.
Valid for applications received in 2024.
Students must pay their fees on time to maintain eligibility.
Students must maintain a credit (65%) average or above in their Collarts studies to maintain eligibility.
Eligibility requirements
International students must meet the following criteria:
English language requirements
Our English requirement is an overall IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent (with no single band score below 6.0) for all the courses, except Entertainment Journalism, where students are required to have an overall IELTS score of 6.5 (with no single band score below 6.0).
Applicants may also provide the following as evidence of their English proficiency:
Admission requirements
Collarts is a place where performance, passion, and industry knowledge collide. We're not just looking for students; we're on the lookout for future playwrights and directors. To see if you are one of them, you'll undergo an admissions interview, during which you’ll discuss your experiences, background, and reasons why this field is calling your name.
In addition to the above, you’ll need to supply the following documentation to support your application:
How to apply
Opportunities and experiences.
A well-rounded course rooted in creativity, collaboration and inclusivity
The Bachelor of Game Design is perfect for students who want to understand the tools, cultural contexts, and design pillars to become creative game design professionals.
Throughout the degree, you will:
Enter the world of game design from a creative angle, learning about narrative, character, story and more.
Learn about diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry to help build an accessible future.
Develop a professional career-ready portfolio of game design work.
Get mentored by industry experts and collaborate with students from other creative courses.
Study in our world-class creative spaces and classrooms.
Get real-life experience through 60 hours of industry placement.
8
4
On Campus
February 2025
Collingwood
Enter the world of gaming
The idea of being paid to design and play games may sound too good to be true, but Collarts gives you the career-ready skills and industry knowledge to make this a reality.
Our comprehensive curriculum explores the core concepts of game design, emphasising the interplay between players, story, and rules. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on projects, you'll develop the techniques needed to bring your gaming ideas to life.
Inclusivity plays a vital role in game design at Collarts. You’ll be encouraged to cast an inclusive and accessible eye over your studies, developing your understanding of community ethics, diversity, inclusive design, and the politics of games, so that you enter the industry knowing how to make it a safer space for future generations.
Our Game Design courses are unique within Australia and are a rare breed worldwide, why? Because we teach you how to make great games, regardless of the type of games you make; digital, card, ttrpg, larp, puzzle, board, interactive narrative - we’ve got you covered. While other game design courses teach you skills and knowledge within a small band of production (focused on the oversubscribed and turbulent digital games industry) our course teaches you not only what good game design actually is - but how to take your ideas from prototype all the way through to publication - all as part of our curriculum.
As a Game Design student, you’ll gain skills across different facets of game design and development, from user experience to interactive narrative design, environment modelling, and marketing strategies. With mentorship from lecturers who are currently working in the industry, you'll also get valuable insight into the nuances and challenges of game design and production.
As part of our curriculum, you’ll be taking part in industry events from your first trimester; meeting, testing and presenting your games to veterans and leaders in the Australian gaming industry. You’ll also have opportunities to present your games to the public at events such as The Games Expo (TGX), PAXAUS and more.
So if you’re passionate about Game Design, beyond game production, and want to make a career of making your games, then join the community that can give you the skills, knowledge and contacts you need to succeed.
The Diploma can be completed in two trimesters (8 months) of full-time study and you have the opportunity to progress into the Bachelor degree (subject to academic performance).
First Year | Trimester 1 | Trimester 2 |
Contexts | SHGS Introduction to Game Studies |
GDSC2 Game Cultures & Communities |
Principles |
GDSP1
Foundational Game Elements |
GDSP2
Interactive Narrative Design |
Practice |
GDSPR1
UX: Design for Play |
GDSPR2
Interface Design |
Creative Foundations |
CRFCRFS
Creative Foundations |
CRFIFOS
Industry Foundations |
UNIT
$2,926.00
TRIMESTER
$11,704.00
(full-time study)
BACHELOR
$70,224.00
(six trimesters full-time study)
Learn about the FEE-Help program
Unlocking the gateway to higher education at Collarts is easier thanks to the Australian Government's FEE-HELP program.
Wondering about eligibility and the smaller details? The FEE-HELP Information Booklet or Australian Government Study Assist website have all the details you'll need.
Enrolling at Collarts is your first step towards a creative career you’ll love. Once deemed eligible, the ATO will email you an eCaf form. Then, with your TFN or TFN application receipt, you're ready to start your FEE-HELP application. Just be sure to submit it before the census date.
Note: You only incur debt for the subjects you're enrolled in post-census date.
How to apply
There are no cookie-cutter moulds to fit into at Collarts. We're all about celebrating diversity, individuality, and the kaleidoscope of creativity that makes each applicant unique.
We’re looking for individuals who are passionate, driven, and capable of sharing a unique voice. Sounds like you? Apply Today with us.
Year 12's:
Non-Year 12's:
Completion of at least half of the first year of study (0.5 EFTSL) of a higher education diploma, associate degree, bachelor degree or higher, or International equivalent OR
VET Certificate qualification, or an International equivalent OR Work and Life Experience.
Click here for international admission and eligibility requirements.
Click here for intake dates.
Click here for the indicative enrolment number.
You may contact a Future Student Advisor for any questions at 1300 818 777 or admissions@collarts.edu.au
Opportunities and experiences.
Explore the foundations of game design as both an art form and a technical discipline
The Diploma of Game Design is perfect for students who want to learn the foundations of game design, from creative and technical knowledge to cultural contexts in the gaming industry. You'll also gain experience in the key conventions, systems, and game design processes, exploring how play is an important factor in all.
Throughout the Diploma, you will:
Build your understanding of collaboration and community engagement.
Get mentored by industry experts and collaborate with students from other creative courses.
Study in our world-class creative spaces and classrooms.
1
3
On Campus
February 2025
Collingwood
Enter the world of gaming
The idea of being paid to design and play games may sound too good to be true, but Collarts gives you the career-ready skills and industry knowledge to make this a reality.
Our comprehensive curriculum explores the core concepts of game design, emphasising the interplay between players, story, and rules. Through a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on projects, you'll develop the techniques needed to bring your gaming ideas to life.
Inclusivity plays a vital role in game design at Collarts. You’ll be encouraged to cast an inclusive and accessible eye over your studies, developing your understanding of community ethics, diversity, inclusive design, and the politics of games, so that you enter the industry knowing how to make it a safer space for future generations.
Our Game Design courses are unique within Australia and are a rare breed worldwide, why? Because we teach you how to make great games, regardless of the type of games you make; digital, card, ttrpg, larp, puzzle, board, interactive narrative - we’ve got you covered. While other game design courses teach you skills and knowledge within a small band of production (focused on the oversubscribed and turbulent digital games industry) our course teaches you not only what good game design actually is - but how to take your ideas from prototype all the way through to publication - all as part of our curriculum.
As a Game Design student, you’ll gain skills across different facets of game design and development, from user experience to interactive narrative design, environment modelling, and marketing strategies. With mentorship from lecturers who are currently working in the industry, you'll also get valuable insight into the nuances and challenges of game design and production.
As part of our curriculum, you’ll be taking part in industry events from your first trimester; meeting, testing and presenting your games to veterans and leaders in the Australian gaming industry. You’ll also have opportunities to present your games to the public at events such as The Games Expo (TGX), PAXAUS and more.
So if you’re passionate about Game Design, beyond game production, and want to make a career of making your games, then join the community that can give you the skills, knowledge and contacts you need to succeed.
The Diploma can be completed in two trimesters (8 months) of full-time study and you have the opportunity to progress into the Bachelor degree (subject to academic performance).
First Year | Trimester 1 | Trimester 2 | Trimester 3 |
Contexts | SHGS Introduction to Game Studies |
GDSC2 Game Cultures & Communities |
|
Principles |
GDSP1
Foundational Game Elements |
GDSP2
Interactive Narrative Design |
|
Practice |
GDSPR1
UX: Design for Play |
GDSPR2
Interface Design |
|
Creative Foundations |
CRFCRFS
Creative Foundations |
CRFIFOS
Industry Foundations |
UNIT
$3,478.00
On Campus
Scholarships
Scholarships are now available for international students and valid for all international study applications from March 2024. Kickstart your creative studies while we ease the financial load – eligible students can receive up to $11,000 AUD for a Bachelor or up to $3,600AUD for a Diploma.
Eligibility criteria:
Applicants must submit a 300-word statement along with their application explaining why they should be awarded the scholarship.
Approved applicants must comply with their visa conditions and obligations as Collarts students.
Applicants must meet Collarts entry requirements.
Scholarships are limited and awarded at the discretion of the Collarts International Team.
Valid for applications received in 2024.
Students must pay their fees on time to maintain eligibility.
Students must maintain a credit (65%) average or above in their Collarts studies to maintain eligibility.
Eligibility requirements
International students must meet the following criteria:
English language requirements
Our English requirement is an overall IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent (with no single band score below 6.0) for all the courses, except Entertainment Journalism, where students are required to have an overall IELTS score of 6.5 (with no single band score below 6.0).
Applicants may also provide the following as evidence of their English proficiency:
Admission requirements
Collarts is a place where performance, passion, and industry knowledge collide. We're not just looking for students; we're on the lookout for future playwrights and directors. To see if you are one of them, you'll undergo an admissions interview, during which you’ll discuss your experiences, background, and reasons why this field is calling your name.
In addition to the above, you’ll need to supply the following documentation to support your application:
How to apply
Opportunities and experiences.
Explore the foundations of game design as both an art form and a technical discipline
The Diploma of Game Design is perfect for students who want to learn the foundations of game design, from creative and technical knowledge to cultural contexts in the gaming industry. You'll also gain experience in the key conventions, systems, and game design processes, exploring how play is an important factor in all.
Throughout the Diploma, you will:
Build your understanding of collaboration and community engagement.
Get mentored by industry experts and collaborate with students from other creative courses.
Study in our world-class creative spaces and classrooms.
Collarts course listings are in-depth, and your future career is in there, waiting to be discovered. Speak with a careers consultant, or download our course guide.
Love gaming and want it to consume your daily (with pay)? Here are some options:
Conceptualise and develop gameplay mechanics, levels, and overall player experiences for digital gaming platforms. Collaborate closely with programmers, artists, and writers to bring their designs to life in virtual worlds, ensuring seamless integration of gameplay elements and narrative coherence.
Average industry salary*:
A master of analog entertainment, Tabletop Game Designers craft immersive and engaging experiences within the realm of board games, card games, and tabletop role-playing games (RPGs). Design game mechanics, balance player interactions, and weave compelling narratives that captivate players around a physical gaming table.
Average industry salary*:
Responsible for shaping the overarching narrative arcs, character development, and world-building elements within a game. Work closely with game designers, writers, and artists to craft immersive storylines that resonate with players, enriching the gaming experience with depth, emotion, and meaning.
Average industry salary*:
Studying Game Design
"I had some people actually ask me if they could buy a copy of my game, maybe about six, seven weeks from having been created. "
You can study on-campus at our Cromwell St campus, with some classes potentially held at our Wellington St campus.
12 hours per week for a full-time study mode.
You will need a laptop. When you explore Digital Content, you’ll be using Maya and UnReal 5 and we also have a TableTop Creator in the computer labs. You will also use Adobe Suite for creating graphics and assets.
Primarily at our Cromwell St campus, but you may have classes at our Wellington St campus.
Yes!
This course focuses on the theory of games, philosophy of play, and what makes games fun! The course aims to create Game Designers across all mediums. You will learn how to engage your audience across all types of industry, like computer games, or table top games. If you like Dungeon & Dragons or Cards Against Humanity – this is a great course for you!
The fundamental difference is theory-based and practice looking – understand and make games from all perspectives.
Your Game Design course can’t wait. Neither can you.