Bachelor of Design (Game Development)

Year 1 Semester 1

• Year 1 Semester 1

• UNIT CODE
• 12126
  Game Studies

  UNIT CODE :

  12126

  Unit description :

  This unit establishes a critical foundation for understanding games as cultural artefacts while positioning the games industry within broader creative and cultural contexts. It traces the evolution of video games through key turning points, influential designers, major studios, landmark franchises, and defining genres, examining their social, cultural, and economic impact. Emphasising game history, preservation, and the cultural significance of interactive media, the unit shows how games shape and reflect global and local perspectives, including Australia's development legacy.
• UNIT NAME
• Game Studies
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 11655
  Introduction to Interaction Design

  UNIT CODE :

  11655

  Unit description :

  The aim of this unit is to provide students with an applied introduction to interaction and user-centred design. This will be achieved through the development of web-based prototypes that combine both theoretical concepts and practical methods. Students will learn how the principles of user-centred design are integral in the development of any form of interactive media. The unit will explore the role of the web as a tool for developing methods, skills and techniques that are transferable across a wide range of mediums. The practical application of these techniques will see students be required to learn basic coding through which to demonstrate the application of new skills and knowledge.
• UNIT NAME
• Introduction to Interaction Design
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 10336
  Professional Orientation (Design)

  UNIT CODE :

  10336

  Unit description :

  In this unit students will be introduced to the diverse opportunities in the world of design. We will consider aspects of contemporary demands of the profession including social responsibility, ethical and sustainability issues. Through engagement with industry, community and professional bodies' students will gain an understanding of global discipline knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform as responsible, capable design professionals. Students will start their career awareness and planning through approaches such as five year plans and eportfolios.
• UNIT NAME
• Professional Orientation (Design)
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 11041
  Visual Representation Techniques

  UNIT CODE :

  11041

  Unit description :

  In this unit students will develop skills and techniques in creating visuals for ideation and communication that cut across design disciplines. From initial concepts and quick sketches through to more sophisticated visual responses, students will form a basic skill set in a variety of drawing, sketching and image creation tools and media. The aim is to provide a comprehensive visual vocabulary to enable the student to effectively articulate ideas through drawing, digital tools and photography.
• UNIT NAME
• Visual Representation Techniques
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

Year 1 Semester 2

• Year 1 Semester 2

• UNIT CODE
• 11656
  Design Thinking and User Centered Design

  UNIT CODE :

  11656

  Unit description :

  This unit introduces students to fundamentals of design process and evolution of design solutions. Student will learn basics of human-centric processes focusing on need finding, understanding, creating, thinking, and doing. A sound understanding of how to conduct design research is gained with an understanding of the processes involved in engaging with the user to create effective design solutions. The student will engage in applying this knowledge in finding solutions for real-world problems in the creation of a design solution and application.
• UNIT NAME
• Design Thinking and User Centered Design
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 11055
  Programming for Design

  UNIT CODE :

  11055

  Unit description :

  In the past Programming for Design was the domain of software engineers, but in the world of digital design, the ability to understand and exploit code as a way to produce and enhance design and media experiences is an essential skill. This unit will introduce students to core programming concepts, tools and techniques that are applicable across a wide range of programming languages. Through practice-based assessment, students will be provided with an introduction to creative coding languages which will allow them to gain a strong understanding of how code can be used to produce engaging forms of interactive media for a wide range of contexts. Students will build interactive, visual design applications through programming assignments.
• UNIT NAME
• Programming for Design
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 12172
  Tabletop Game Design

  UNIT CODE :

  12172

  Unit description :

  This unit provides an introduction to the core principles of game design, exploring gameplay mechanics, play structures, and the creative decision making that shapes both tabletop and digital game experiences. It examines how design intent, prototyping, and player interaction inform the development of engaging game systems. Emphasis is placed on iterative pipelines, structured playtesting, and the creation of paper-based and print-and-play prototypes, supporting a clear understanding of how ideas are transformed into functional and compelling games.
• UNIT NAME
• Tabletop Game Design
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

Year 2 Semester 1

• Year 2 Semester 1

• UNIT CODE
• 12127
  Concept Art Fundamentals

  UNIT CODE :

  12127

  Unit description :

  This unit provides a structured introduction to the fundamental strategies and visual processes that shape concept art development across screen media, including film, games, animation, and narrative worldbuilding. It develops core capabilities in drawing, ideation, and visual communication, with a focus on designing characters, environments, props, and other elements that contribute to cohesive fictional settings. Development is supported through research, structured exercises, and the study of existing visual examples, enabling clearer stylistic understanding and purposeful creative choices. Emphasis is placed on applying both traditional and digital techniques to produce resolved concept artworks that demonstrate narrative intent through the integration of technical skill and creative experimentation.
• UNIT NAME
• Concept Art Fundamentals
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 12170
  Indie Game Development

  UNIT CODE :

  12170

  Unit description :

  This unit provides a foundation in the core principles that underpin contemporary game production, with a focus on rapid prototyping and the creation of small independent projects. It introduces essential concepts in game design, game art, game programming, and production workflows, demonstrating how these elements come together to shape interactive experiences. Emphasis is placed on understanding pipelines, roles, and creative problem solving, supported by introductory discussions of agile practices, iterative approaches, and the wider production considerations that shape work across diverse game development contexts.
• UNIT NAME
• Indie Game Development
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

Year 2 Semester 1 - one unit only

• Year 2 Semester 1 - one unit only

• UNIT CODE
• 11838
  3D Media Art Production

  UNIT CODE :

  11838

  Unit description :

  Using industry-standard modelling software, this unit teaches students the principles of creating digital forms in 3D space and how to animate them using simple mesh and object transformations and physical system simulations. With reference to historical and contemporary 3D media, students will explore the creative use of camera placement, lighting, material shaders and rendering techniques to achieve a variety of aesthetic outcomes.
• UNIT NAME
• 3D Media Art Production
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

Year 2 Semester 2

• Year 2 Semester 2

• UNIT CODE
• 12169
  Advanced Game Development

  UNIT CODE :

  12169

  Unit description :

  This unit provides a technical exploration of advanced game development techniques with a strong focus on level design and the creation of polished interactive spaces. It examines the construction and organisation of modular 3D assets, the design of navigable environments, and the integration of lighting, visual effects, animation, and interactive elements to shape cohesive and responsive game levels. Emphasis is placed on understanding how spatial composition, gameplay flow, and environmental cues work together within contemporary game pipelines to support refined gameplay, visual clarity, and a compelling sense of player immersion.

  
  

  Co-requisite unit :

  11687
• UNIT NAME
• Advanced Game Development
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 12171
  Extended Realities

  UNIT CODE :

  12171

  Unit description :

  This unit provides an exploration of the principles and practices that underpin extended reality technologies, including virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, and related immersive media. It investigates the design and construction of computer generated three dimensional environments across applications such as games, film, simulation, and architectural visualisation, with particular attention to spatial layout, interaction models, and player experience. Emphasis is placed on mastering the creative and technical workflows behind crafting immersive virtual experiences, combining sensory feedback, engaging interactions, and environmental storytelling to form new and unique digital realities.
• UNIT NAME
• Extended Realities
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 11831
  Professional Practice (Industry Studios)

  UNIT CODE :

  11831

  Unit description :

  In this unit students will work with academics, peers and industry partners to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop employability skills and strengthen the disciplinary skills and knowledge needed to contribute to and excel in their professions. Authentic learning experiences will include industry studios or collaborations, competitions, exhibitions or other industry-engaged learning experiences.

  
  

  Pre-requisite unit :

  11014 , 11020
• UNIT NAME
• Professional Practice (Industry Studios)
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

Year 2 Semester 2 - one unit only

• Year 2 Semester 2 - one unit only

• UNIT CODE
• 11133
  Character Design and Animation

  UNIT CODE :

  11133

  Unit description :

  In this unit we look at the tools and techniques that are used to create animated three-dimensional characters. Starting with ideation, we move from character concept through modelling and rigging and on to animation, exploring techniques including inverse kinematics and motion capture. This technical process will be used as the basis for a structured exploration of the ways that character animation has evolved and the knowledge that animators use to bring their characters to life.
• UNIT NAME
• Character Design and Animation
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

Year 3 Semester 1

• Year 3 Semester 1

• UNIT CODE
• 11839
  Emerging Production Technologies

  UNIT CODE :

  11839

  Unit description :

  This unit provides a platform for students to develop in-depth understanding and skills in one area of technological media development. This may include learning and demonstrating the use of new tools, processes, workflows and/or principles for the production of digital media technologies. The unit is open to advanced level students from a wide range of disciplines who work with the production of digital assets. The unit supports students in self-directed learning by exposing students to a range of emerging practices and providing practical advice and assistance from experienced tutors. Tutors work closely with students to help them deliver a proof of concept application of the studied tool, process, workflow or principle.
• UNIT NAME
• Emerging Production Technologies
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 11834
  Professional Practice (Advanced Industry Studios)

  UNIT CODE :

  11834

  Unit description :

  In this unit students will further develop their disciplinary skills and understanding in a Studio learning environment of exploration and iterative design processes. The Studio aims to enhance learning frameworks and engagement with professional modes of practice. Projects may include a 'competition' project opportunity drawn from local or international design contexts, a 'live' project, or a 'simulated' work integrated learning project undertaken in relation to Industry, community and professional interfaces. The Studio will address emerging issues and concerns within contemporary practice contexts.

  
  

  Pre-requisite unit :

  11831
• UNIT NAME
• Professional Practice (Advanced Industry Studios)
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

Year 3 Semester 2

• Year 3 Semester 2

• UNIT CODE
• 11840
  Digital Production Project

  UNIT CODE :

  11840

  Unit description :

  In this studio-based unit students apply their knowledge and skills in digital media production to build creative cutting-edge works designed to delight, surprise and showcase the potential of modern digital media production. These works may be animation-based, video-based or interactive, depending on each individual's preference, and can be team-based or individual projects. Students are given a lot of creative license to show off their skills, but are expected to plan and scope their work carefully, and to put significant effort into documentation and presentation of the final works.
• UNIT NAME
• Digital Production Project
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• 11045
  Professional Evidence (Design)

  UNIT CODE :

  11045

  Unit description :

  In this unit students will work on the relationship between the designer, research and design for professional practice. Students will engage in high-level design projects in collaboration with external stakeholders as a means of developing design solutions that respond to users, business, industry and issues of sustainability and their effects on society. Professional ethics and responsibility are also integral to this unit and projects. Students will demonstrate the integration of their academic and disciplinary knowledge and skills through significant projects and/or exhibitions. They will reflect on the value and outputs of their learning through their e-portfolio; and they will demonstrate their understanding of professionalism and career-readiness through disciplinary initiatives.
• UNIT NAME
• Professional Evidence (Design)
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)

• UNIT CODE
• OEU
  Open Elective Unit

  UNIT CODE :

  OEU

  Unit description :
• UNIT NAME
• Open Elective Unit
  (Credit points: 3; EFTSL = 0.125)