CUA51020 | CRICOS: 107862J

Diploma of Screen and Media (Animation, Gaming and Visual Effects)

Activate your career in screen and media with this diploma qualification. Learn the specialist skills needed to be a game designer or game developer. This course is ideal for creative people seeking employment in the film, television, games industry, and screen and media industries.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Sunshine Coast

WAYS TO STUDY On campus International

LAST CHANCE TO APPLY Start date: 14 Jul 2025 Duration: 1 year View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$12,015

Subsidised

$13,365

Full Fee

$17,880

International

$22,600

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

In this course you will gain a diverse range of skills in technical and theoretical Game Development. Expand on your creative talents through practical exercises in Game Design, 3D Modelling, Programming, and Game Art, all while working in a collaborative, and simulated studio environment. You will have access to industry standard equipment and the opportunity to develop close industry contacts through our leading educators.

Completion of this course will award you the skills you need to work individually or collaboratively as a game developer, game designer, programmer, or Game Artist within the creative industries environment. Successful completion also provides great articulation opportunities into higher education courses.

What can I do?

Game Designer
3D Game Animator
3D Game Modeller
Game Concept Artist
Game Texture Artist
UI Designer
Game Developer
Junior Programmer

Course outcome:

CUA51020 Diploma of Screen and Media (Animation, Gaming and Visual Effects)

Choose your specialisation

This course offers industry specialisations for you to choose from: post-production, specialist make-up services, animation, gaming and visual effects also screen and media with a focus on film and TV production or 3D Animation and Visual Effects industries. Choose the specialisation that suits your interests and career goals.

Study games and interactive design

Be a part of the next generation of Australian games makers and media designers with our games and interactive design courses. Develop the skills you need to work across a variety of roles behind the scenes in design, illustration, development, software engineering, animator, and management. Learn more

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 11 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CUAIND412

Provide freelance services

UNIT CODE :
CUAIND412

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work as an independent operator within the creative arts industry. This includes promoting self to potential clients, negotiating work arrangements, managing financial and business aspects of services, and undertaking strategic planning.
UNIT NAME
Provide freelance services

UNIT CODE
CUAIND512

Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledge

UNIT CODE :
CUAIND512

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain creative arts industry knowledge and monitor and manage own professional practice. This includes applying industry knowledge to research-based work activities, when interacting with others, and when engaging in professional practice in the music industry.
UNIT NAME
Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledge

UNIT CODE
CUAPPR411

Realise a creative project

UNIT CODE :
CUAPPR411

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to experiment with ideas and techniques to find an individual style or voice throughout a creative project that results in a completed work.
UNIT NAME
Realise a creative project

UNIT CODE
CUAPPR515

Establish and maintain safe creative practice

UNIT CODE :
CUAPPR515

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to determine and respond effectively to broad and specific safety requirements in a professional practice.
UNIT NAME
Establish and maintain safe creative practice

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CUAANM302

Create 3D digital animations

UNIT CODE :
CUAANM302

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to animate simple 3D models and create 3D animations, which may include audio components. The models are for inclusion in interactive media products, short stand-alone animated sequences and basic games.
UNIT NAME
Create 3D digital animations

UNIT CODE
CUAANM313

Create 3D digital models

UNIT CODE :
CUAANM313

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create 3D digital models that are produced primarily for online and mobile device application, and meet technical and design specifications.
UNIT NAME
Create 3D digital models

UNIT CODE
CUAANM411

Create advanced 3D digital models

UNIT CODE :
CUAANM411

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare 3D digital models to a high level of finish, ready to use in different contexts.
UNIT NAME
Create advanced 3D digital models

UNIT CODE
CUAANM412

Create digital visual effects

UNIT CODE :
CUAANM412

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use different industry software applications and material to create digital visual effects sequences for projects in film, television, games or digital media productions.
UNIT NAME
Create digital visual effects

UNIT CODE
CUAANM511

Create 3D digital character animations

UNIT CODE :
CUAANM511

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use different industry-current software to create 3D digital character animation for film, television, interactive media products, stand-alone animated sequences and games.
UNIT NAME
Create 3D digital character animations

UNIT CODE
CUAANM512

Create 3D digital environments

UNIT CODE :
CUAANM512

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create 3D digital environments using appropriate software, reference material and established designs.
UNIT NAME
Create 3D digital environments

UNIT CODE
CUADIG413

Create user interfaces

UNIT CODE :
CUADIG413

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to create a user interface for animation, gaming and/or visual effects products.
UNIT NAME
Create user interfaces

UNIT CODE
CUADIG414

Write and apply scripting language in authoring

UNIT CODE :
CUADIG414

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to write and apply scripting language in authoring interactive media products.
UNIT NAME
Write and apply scripting language in authoring

UNIT CODE
CUADIG516

Design interactions

UNIT CODE :
CUADIG516

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to generate ideas, design drafts and test interactions for interactive media products.
UNIT NAME
Design interactions

UNIT CODE
CUADIG518

Refine digital art techniques

UNIT CODE :
CUADIG518

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to refine digital media techniques and to develop own digital art style in a body of creative work.
UNIT NAME
Refine digital art techniques

UNIT CODE
ICTGAM535

Develop complex 3-D software for games and interactive media

UNIT CODE :
ICTGAM535

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to employ multiple 3-D frameworks and libraries, build a graphical user interface (GUI) and develop complex 3-D software with documentation generated using applicable tools.
UNIT NAME
Develop complex 3-D software for games and interactive media

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	14 Jul 2025	1 year	Full time 4 days per week	Concession: $12,015 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $13,365 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $17,880 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 1 year The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 4 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $12,015 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $13,365 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $17,880 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Mooloolaba	On Campus	27 Jan 2026	1 year	Full time 2 days per week Tuesday, Wednesday	Concession: $12,015 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $13,365 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $17,880 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Mooloolaba On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 1 year The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 2 days per week Tuesday, Wednesday The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $12,015 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $13,365 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $17,880 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On Campus	27 Jan 2026	1 year	Full time 4 days per week	International: $22,600 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more More Apply
South Bank On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 1 year The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 4 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY International: $22,600 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

As an international student at TAFE Queensland you will gain practical, hands-on experience in our purpose-built classrooms, laboratories and workshops with the same tools and equipment used in industry.

Studying with TAFE Queensland, an internationally recognised education provider, will give you the skills and knowledge to launch your career.

No matter where you are in your study journey, our team of international student support advisors can help you settle into life in Australia and provide support and assistance to help you throughout your studies.

As an international student you’ll study face-to-face in a classroom with other international and Australian students at one of our campus locations across Queensland, while enjoying the unique Australian landscape, culture, and lifestyle

You will be expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements. The number of hours of personal study required is dependent on your existing knowledge, skills and language needs.

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Diploma of Screen and Media (Animation, Gaming and Visual Effects) (CUA51020)

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Diploma of Screen and Media (Animation, Gaming and Visual Effects)

COURSE CODE: CUA51020

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

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Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

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VET Student Loan - $18,838 cap

The VET Student Loans program assists eligible students enrolled in approved courses to pay their tuition fees. The Australian Government charges full fee-paying (non-subsidised) students a 20 per cent loan fee in addition to their tuition fees. A VET Student Loan is a debt that must be repaid.

Learn more

International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
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Entry requirements

Skills check

Domestic students
You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology.

The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 4 in English, 4 in Maths and 4 in Digital Technology.

If you are applying for a VET Student Loan the required levels to meet academic eligibility, as outlined by Commonwealth guidelines, is Level 4 English and Maths.

Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application.

Read the Skills Check FAQs.

Selection criteria

Domestic students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to domestic students:

School leavers must have completed Year 12 or equivalent
Non school-leavers are selected according to eligibility and merit, vocational experience, previous study and personal competencies.
If you’re under 17 years of age, special enrolment conditions may apply.

International students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to international students:

English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. View more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12.

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software. This equipment and software are available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class some design resources and a portable external hard drive (500MG minimum). Details will be provided after enrolment or during orientation.
Please note: the purchase of these items may incur additional costs of approximately $300.

have access to a computer capable of running Adobe Creative Suite software. This software can be purchased after enrolment to access a student discount price.

It is also recommended that you have access to a computer capable of running:

Substance Painter, Autodesk 3D Studio Max and Maya, and Unity (all of these pieces of software are free with a student account, after creating a free account with the software providers)
Adobe Creative Suite software. This software can be purchased after enrolment to access a student discount price

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

Apply through QTAC

You can apply to study this course through the Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC). You will need to submit your application on the QTAC website. It will be assessed, and if you are successful you will receive an offer directly through QTAC. You will need to accept your offer from QTAC before enrolling with TAFE Queensland. Visit the QTAC website for campus locations.

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
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Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees, available subsidies, and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

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