Bachelor of Computer and Information Science in Game Design and Development (Degree)

Develop the singular skillset required to thrive in one of the most exciting, lucrative, and fastest-growing industries on the planet. The IIE BCIS degree in Game Design and Development equips students with the necessary skills to pursue a career in creating digital games for different platforms, from computers to platforms like mobile phones and other hand-held devices. 

A graduate will be qualified in both the programming and creative aspects of a career in designing and developing games; gamified applications and immersive content for new technologies.

Modules:
Year 1:

• Game Design 1A & 1B
• Game Development 1A & 1B
• Game Art 1A & 1B
• Programming Logic and Design
• Mathematical Principles for Developers

Year 2:

• Game Design 2A & 2B
• Game Development 2A & 2B
• Game Art 2A & 2B
• Narrative for Gaming
• Databases

Year 3:

• Game Design 3A & 3B
• Game Development 3A & 3B
• Work Integrated Learning 3A & 3B
• Introduction to Research
• Open-Source Coding (Introduction)

Please note:

• IIE-Vega does not require a portfolio as part of the application process to study design. Our primary focus is on how our students think and collaborate as creative solution seekers. The development of an industry-ready portfolio becomes a core focus once you enrol and engage hands-on with any of our creative programmes.
• You are welcome to make an appointment with your campus Contact Navigator if you are not sure which creative course would suit you best. Ideally you should attend one of our GenV workshops at any of our IIE-Vega campuses to explore the different programmes on offer.

Entry Requirements

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with Degree admission- A minimum of 30 percent for English, 40 percent for Mathematics or 60 percent for Mathematical Literacy/Technical Maths; OR
• A National Certificate (Vocational) NC(V) with Degree admission – A minimum of 50 percent in English on either First Additional Language or Home Language level AND Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy/Technical Maths, with a minimum of 60 percent; OR
• A Senior Certificate (SC) (with endorsement) with at least 33.3 percent for English, 40 percent for Mathematics on the HG; OR at least 60 percent for Mathematics on the SG; OR
• A Senior Certificate (Amended) SC(A) with degree admission with at least 40 percent for Mathematics on the HG; OR at least 60 percent for Mathematics on the SG. A minimum of 30 percent in LOLT in NSC/ SC(a) OR with a min. of 33.3 percent in SC
• For international qualifications: An USAf Exemption Certificate is required and meeting the relevant Maths and English requirements.
• Alternatively, a cognate Higher Certificate or cognate 240 credit Diploma OR an Advanced Certificate OR 360 credit Diploma may satisfy the minimum admission requirements to degree studies. If discipline not cognate at least 20 percent of credits must be academic literacy or numeracy related.

Senate Discretionary Admission

Mature Age Exemption: A USAf Exemption Certificate is required

• Candidates having attained the age of 23 before or during the first year of registration with a Senior Certificate with a minimum of 40% in at least four higher or standard grade subjects, at least three of which shall have been passed simultaneously and one of which shall be a recognised higher-grade subject; OR
• Candidates must have attained the age of 45 before or during the first year of registration.
• An USAf exemption Certificate is required.
• Senate Discretionary Mature Age Admission for students with a Senior 

Certificate with endorsement

• Candidates 23 years and older at point of registration, with an endorsed Senior Certificate can be accepted on a senate discretionary mature age admission. Their academic progress will be tracked and reported at Senate. An USAf Exemption Certificate is not required.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

• Where candidates do not satisfy the formal admission requirements for this qualification, The IIE may consider an admission application in terms of the Credit Accumulation and Transfer, Recognition of Prior Learning and Qualification Completion Policy (IIE010).

USAf approved cognate foundation programme

• Candidates who have completed an USAf approved cognate foundation programme from a registered and accredited provider may be admitted.
• An USAf Exemption Certificate is required - the Office of the Registrar will facilitate, on behalf of the student, an application for degree admission to USAf, once the student has provided proof of payment to USAf.

Transfer students

• Candidates who have successfully completed at least 120 credits on the first year of a cognate degree may be admitted. The additional Maths/Math Lit/Technical Maths criteria falls away. However, if a student completed less than 120 credits, the admission criteria on the NSC or equivalent apply.

OQSF qualifications

• Candidates with an OQSF Level 5 cognate qualification may be admitted, provided the OQSF qualification has at least 120 credits at NQF Level 5. An USAf Exemption Certificate is required - the Office of the Registrar will facilitate, on behalf of the student, an application for degree admission to USAf, once the student has provided proof of payment to USAf.

Jobs in this field:

• Game Developer, Programmer (various platforms)
• Commercial Software Developer, Programmer
• Game Designer
• Digital Animator
• Concept Artist
• Texture Artist
• Level Designer
• Simulation Designer