Why Study / Key Benefits

The Bachelor of Computer Science, majoring in Games Development, combines core computer science and software-development knowledge with specialist games-development skills.

Key benefits include:

• Learn to design and program computer games and other interactive software.
• Develop software-development skills alongside creative and multimedia design capabilities.
• Study programming, databases, software architecture, mobile development and game-focused technologies.
• Gain practical experience through six professionally focused, industry-linked projects.
• All Swinburne bachelor degrees include a guaranteed Work Integrated Learning opportunity, which may be a placement, internship or industry-linked project.
• Study in industry-standard computing laboratories.
• The degree is professionally accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS).
• Students can potentially combine Computer Science with another qualification through selected double-degree options.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The published study sequence is an indicative Semester 1, 2026 sequence and may change. Students should use the course planner and student portal for their actual enrolment plan.

Year 1 – 100 credit points

Semester 1:

• Computer Systems – COS10004
• Introduction to Programming – COS10009
• Web Technology Project – COS10026
• One elective

Semester 2:

• Technology in an Indigenous Context Project – COS10025
• Object Oriented Programming – COS20007
• Networks and Switching – TNE10006
• 3D Modelling for Objects and Environments – DDD20022

Year 2 – 100 credit points

Semester 1:

• Artificial Intelligence for Games – COS30002
• Database Design Project – COS20031
• Two electives

Semester 2:

• Software Development for Mobile Devices – COS30017
• Games Programming – COS30031
• Computing Technology Innovation Project – COS30049
• One elective

Year 3 – 100 credit points

Semester 1:

• Computing Technology Project A – COS40005
• Software Architectures and Design – SWE30003
• Two electives

Semester 2:

• Computing Technology Project B – COS40006
• Software Deployment and Evolution – SWE40006
• Two electives.

The Games Development major specifically comprises eight major units:

• 3D Modelling for Objects and Environments
• Artificial Intelligence for Games
• Database Design Project
• Software Development for Mobile Devices
• Games Programming
• Computing Technology Innovation Project
• Software Architectures and Design
• Software Deployment and Evolution.

Disciplines / Specialisations

The selected specialisation is Games Development.

The Bachelor of Computer Science also offers majors in:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber Security
• Data Science
• Games Development
• Internet of Things
• Software Development.

Games Development focuses on:

• Computer-game design
• Game programming
• Interactive software
• Software development
• Multimedia and creative design
• 3D modelling
• Artificial intelligence for games
• Mobile software development
• Software architecture and deployment.

Programme Highlights

• 3-year undergraduate Computer Science qualification.
• Games Development specialisation.
• 300 credit points.
• 24 standard units comprising 8 core, 8 major and 8 elective units.
• Six professionally focused, industry-linked projects.
• Guaranteed Work Integrated Learning opportunity.
• Australian Computer Society professional accreditation.
• Industry-standard computing laboratories.
• Dedicated subjects in Games Programming and Artificial Intelligence for Games.
• Training in 3D modelling, mobile development, database design and software architecture.
• Optional 6-month or 12-month professional placement.
• Double-degree options including Games and Interactivity/Computer Science, Computer Science/Applied Innovation, Engineering (Honours)/Computer Science and Laws/Computer Science.

Career Outcomes

Swinburne lists the following career opportunities for the Games Development major:

• Digital content producer
• Multimedia developer
• Games designer or programmer
• Software designer or developer.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Current course information includes the following important points:

• 2027 intakes are scheduled for 1 March and 2 August 2027.
• The corresponding application deadlines currently shown are 24 February and 28 July 2027.
• The course is CRICOS registered under 088400A.
• International Student visa holders studying in Australia must study full-time and on campus.
• The published subject sequence is indicative and based on Semester 1, 2026; unit availability may change.
• Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning are assessed case-by-case.
• Students who successfully completed VCE Algorithmics (HESS) can receive exemption for two 12.5-credit-point elective units, equivalent to 25 credit points.
• The Diploma of Information Technology (UniLink) is listed as a pathway option, with an 8-month full-time duration and up to eight units of maximum credit, subject to the applicable course and major requirements.

International Student Visa Requirements

The relevant Australian visa for an international student undertaking this course in Australia is generally the Student visa, subclass 500.

Key requirements include:

• A valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for the intended course.
• Adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• Evidence of financial capacity where required.
• Evidence of English-language ability where required by the Department of Home Affairs.
• Meeting the Genuine Student requirement.
• Compliance with all conditions attached to the Student visa.