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- Course areas
- Screen, Media and Games
- Diploma of Information Technology (Game Programming)
OverviewAbout this course
Build your game development skills so you can become a games programmer, software engineer and more. Make complex 3D games for mobile devices, work in a team to design game levels and environments and learn to lead a team.
Is information technology right for you?
Information technology is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry. A career in IT is a gateway to a promising and interesting future. It can lead to diverse opportunities across high-demand sectors such as cyber security, cloud computing, programming, and data management. Your experience and career goals will help determine the best pathway for you. Watch our video to learn more.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Create complex 3D interactive games
Make games for mobile devices
Develop design concepts for digital games and 3D media
Collaborate in the design of 3D game levels and environments
Lead and facilitate a team
Course outcomes
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally accredited qualification at Diploma level
Experience creating games
Techniques to solve complex programming problems
Confidence talking to and working with other people
Strong pathways to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
That you have completed a Certificate IV in Information Technology (Gaming Development) or its equivalent as evidenced by a copy of your transcript, or
That you have the appropriate skills and knowledge in simple modelling for animation, producing interactive games and building graphical user interfaces as evidenced by a teacher-assessed interview. We will contact you to arrange a suitable time for your interview.
Completion requirements
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
A Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills test and achieve a score of 4 for learning, reading and oral communication, and 3 for writing and numeracy. This skills test helps us to understand your individual study needs and to provide you with the appropriate support for your study success.
Entry recommendations
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
Access to a personal computer outside of TAFE NSW that can run and support industry standard 3D software and game engine platforms
If you are studying online, a portable Hard Disk Drive (HDD) (at least 500 GB)
A background in programming with the desire to move into the games industry
Existing skills and knowledge in programming languages such as C++ and C#
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like: games programmer, games designer, software engineer, video game system designer, game tester, game marketer, mobile games programmer, interactive digital media developer and game producer.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study2 Courses
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
Further study1 Course
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Related study0 Courses
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
The Diploma of Information Technology (Game Programming) does not have any related courses.
Your experience counts
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Diploma of Information Technology (Game Programming) qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 20 Units of competency, including 6 core and 14 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
Match ICT needs with the strategic direction of the organisationICTICT517
Apply IP, ethics and privacy in ICT environmentsICTICT532
Manage client problemsICTSAS527
Lead and facilitate a teamBSBXTW401
TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community