Course Overview

About This Course

The course provides an introduction to core knowledge and concepts of Information Technology and Game Design such as programming, computer science, and digital storytelling. It is equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Game Design and Development as well as Bachelor of Information Technology, and will facilitate articulation into the second year of an undergraduate degree offered by the Faculty of Science.

The Diploma of Game Design and Development is a diploma consisting of a minimum of 80 credit points, taught in English, which normally takes 28 weeks of full-time study or part-time equivalent. The course structure requires successful completion of eight units of study. Most students are admitted on the basis of successful completion of secondary studies or by alternative pathways for non-current school leavers. Graduates of the diploma program are eligible to progress to a range of bachelor degrees.

On successful completion you will be able to:

Identify, analyse, interpret and apply Information Technology and Game Design concepts, relevant data and information to solve a diverse range of Information Technology and Game Design problems.
Use specialised technical skills and tools to analyse and explain data, to produce reports and to complete projects
Demonstrate theoretical and practical knowledge in key Information Technology and Game Design areas such as: programming, computer science, and digital storytelling.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Sydney

Levels 23 & 24, 123 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW 2000

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic students:

Selection rank (ATAR) of 60, or an approved equivalent
Year 12 (or equivalent) qualification with a minimum Selection Rank of 60
or
HSC (or interstate) board exam with minimum average mark* of 60.
*Other factors including ATAR and other attempted studies are taken into consideration with the average mark. Achieving the average mark does not guarantee an offer. Only relevant State Board approved academic subjects are included when reviewing your average. For instance, in the New South Wales HSC, only results from Category A and B Board Developed courses are considered.
A minimum of HSC Mathematics Advanced Band 3 or equivalent.
International students must be at least 17 years of age at the time of commencement and have a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 with an ATAR of 60.
IELTS scores: overall 6, reading 5.5, writing 5.5, listening 5.5 and speaking 5.5.

International students:

Selection rank (ATAR) of 60, or an approved overseas equivalent
Year 12 (or equivalent) qualification with a minimum Selection Rank of 60
or
HSC (or interstate) board exam with minimum average mark* of 60.
*Other factors including ATAR and other attempted studies are taken into consideration with the average mark. Achieving the average mark does not guarantee an offer. Only relevant State Board approved academic subjects are included when reviewing your average. For instance, in the New South Wales HSC, only results from Category A and B Board Developed courses are considered.
A minimum of HSC Mathematics Advanced Band 3 or equivalent.
International students must be at least 17 years of age at the time of commencement and have a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 with an ATAR of 60.
IELTS scores: overall 6, reading 5.5, writing 5.5, listening 5.5 and speaking 5.5.
IELTS (Academic) overall band 6 with minimum sub-scores: listening 5.5, reading 5.5, writing 5.5, speaking 5.5, or an approved equivalent
CRICOS-registered course - a valid student visa is required to study on campus

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Students who complete the Diploma of Game Design and Development may be eligible to articulate into selected Macquarie University's Bachelor Degrees.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

ASQA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units9 units

WACO1002

Academic Communication in Science

WBUS1020

Business Communication

WCOM1750

Introduction to Business Information Systems

WCOM1010

Fundamentals of Computer Science

WCOM1011

Introduction to Video Games

WMMC1050

Multimodal Storytelling

WCOM1350

Introduction to Database Design and Management

WCOM1000

Introduction to Computer Programming

WMAT1010

Calculus and Linear Algebra I

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total estimated cost of the Diploma of Game Design and Development?

The estimated total course cost is AU$38,273, which includes a tuition fee of AU$37,900 and a non-tuition fee of AU$373.

Where is the Diploma of Game Design and Development taught?

The course is taught at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales, a location owned and operated by the provider.

How long does the Diploma of Game Design and Development take to complete?

The course has a duration of 42 weeks.

What field of education does this diploma fall under?

The Diploma of Game Design and Development falls under the broad field of Information Technology (02), with a narrow field of Computer Science (0201) and a detailed field of Computer Graphics (020115).

How do I contact Macquarie University for more information about this course?

You can contact Macquarie University's Prospective Student Contact Centre by phone at +61 2 9850 6767 or by email at study@mq.edu.au. The university's website is www.mq.edu.au.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $50,000 to $70,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $70,000 to $90,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $90,000 to $120,000 per year

Career Paths

2D Animator3D AnimatorCharacter DesignerVFX Artist (Visual Effects Artist)Motion Graphics Designer

Key Skills

2D and 3D character animation and rigging3D modelling, texturing, and renderingMotion graphics and visual effects (VFX)Game engine proficiency (Unity, Unreal Engine)Digital illustration and concept art

Full Course Overview

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